Child Development Specialist

Why should you join our team?

YMCA Calgary is a charity that ignites the potential in Calgarians. Since our inception in 1902, we have evolved into a vibrant organization operating in every quadrant of the city.

Guided by our core values of honesty, caring, respect and responsibility, YMCA Calgary offers a growing hub of programming & services to address the needs of our community including connection and belonging, physical and mental wellbeing, child-care support, language instruction, affordable tutoring and more. We also ensure that no one is turned away, lowering financial barriers for youth, adults and families through the generous donations of our community. This impact takes place across our 7 health and wellness facilities, 6 childcare centres, 2 outdoor camps and 12+ community programs, empowering people of all ages and life stages to belong, grow, thrive and lead.

Child Development Specialist (Full Time)
YMCA Calgary

**Salary**:$46,663.00/year - $58,328.00/year
Start Date: Immediate

You can make an impact in the community - locally and across the globe. You will work with a fun culture of people and enjoy many of the benefits and opportunities the YMCA offers:

- Complimentary YMCA Calgary membership including a linked membership for dependent children;
- Comprehensive health and dental benefits. Premiums paid in full by the Association;
- Pension plan with specified contribution matching by the Association;
- Anniversary flex day and gifts given to celebrate each year of employment;
- Program discounts;
- Ongoing leadership development and opportunities;
- Leadership award opportunities;
- Scholarship opportunities;
- Paid recertification and training

What qualifications are we looking for?

Post secondary education in a therapeutic discipline or in disability studies

Minimum 3-5 years experience supporting children 0 - 5 years of age with developmental conditions and/or delays

Ability to conduct observations as well as develop and implement strategies and therapeutic plans to support children to have positive, successful, and inclusive experiences within the child care setting

Experience collaborating with caregivers of young children to further knowledge, understanding and competence in utilizing identified support strategies

Knowledge of, and experience securing, available funding and community supports for children and their families

Engaged and motivated solution-based approach to work

Clear communicator with excellent verbal and written skills

Intermediate computer literacy and competency

Current Standard First Aid with CPR-C certificated within the last 12 months from an approved AB OHS provider. Asset if certification is issued by one of the following five Canadian organizations: Canadian Red Cross, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Lifesaving Society, St John's Ambulance and/or Canadian Ski Patrol.

Evidence of a clear Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search;
Three professional references

What does this role look like at YMCA Calgary?

This position is full-time and will work 40 hours per week between the hours of 7am - 6pm, Monday through Friday. Flexibility of the successful applicant’s personal schedule is required to ensure staff and area needs are met. Some evening and weekend work may be required. The successful applicant will travel between YMCA locations to meet position requirements. Mileage will be paid for travel between locations.

Reporting to the Centre Manager - Early Years, the Child Development Specialist will:
Conduct observations as well as develop and implement strategies and therapeutic plans to support children aged 12 months - 5 years to have positive, successful, and inclusive experiences within the child care setting

Establish and maintain effective communication with all stakeholders including community support services

Provide resources to families and facilitate access to funding and community supports

Collaboratively work with room educators to provide information, increase understanding and further their ability to successfully support all children

Support training requirements for staff and volunteers working within YMCA Calgary Early Years program and service areas

Maintain and prioritize case load including effective record keeping

Develop and maintain resource inventory for use within classrooms and with individual children

Support centre and area operations as required

Communicate effectively with all stakeholders

Attend and participate in scheduled YMCA meetings and trainings.

Maintain personal certifications and trainings

Demonstrate safe practices, acting promptly on health and safety risks and concerns

What qualities do we look for in YMCA Calgary Staff and Volunteers?

Our diverse team of staff and volunteers are committed to making a positive impact in the community. In addition, they model and are committed to the following competencies:

- Developing Self and Others: Developing people with a view toward pre