Early Childhood Educator

**Title**:Early Childhood Educator
**Department**:Early Learning and Childcare
**Classification**: Full-Time, Regular, Hourly
**Hours**:42.5 hours per week
**Start Date**:On an ongoing basis as needed
**Remuneration**:Based on ECE Wage Scale.
**Deadline**: Applications accepted on an ongoing basis
**Location**: Various Locations - Halifax, Dartmouth, Elmsdale

YWCA Halifax is a progressive, multi-service, not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women, girls, two-spirited and gender diverse people and their families at critical turning points in their lives. We work to transform lives by providing a continuum of services and programs that drive lasting positive change. We strive to change the underlying issues that are root causes of inequality, violence, poverty, and homelessness. Our four program focus areas include: promoting the health, wellness, and leadership of women and girls; advancing women’s economic and housing security; delivering quality, accessible, early learning, and childcare; and working to end violence against women, girls and gender diverse people.

**Why work for the YWCA**

Staff at YWCA Halifax enjoy a supportive and dynamic team environment, a commitment to staff growth, a connection to the national and international YWCA movements, learning from colleagues in a multiservice agency, and a strong shared vision.

**Why YOU should apply**

**Position Overview**

The Early Childhood Educator is expected to work within established guidelines of the YWCA and within the policy, procedures and regulations of the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and the Food Safety Guidelines to deliver the planned quality childcare program.

**General Competencies**

Must be a team player with skills in caring for children in a group setting. Must have a professional attitude and effective communications skills. Must demonstrate sound judgment, decision-making skills, excellent communication skills, provide a culturally responsive/reflective practice and work environment. Work can be demanding both physically and mentally.

**Role of the Early Childhood Educator**
- Work in a team setting respecting established routines for the children.
- Provide active physical play both indoor and outdoor. Maintain playground by ensuring that fire escape routes are kept clear of toys, and debris.
- Create a warm, pleasant, and inviting atmosphere and ensure that all areas in and out of the classroom are kept tidy, clean, and in good order.
- Devote the whole of working time, attention, and energies to the care and safety of the children.
- Communicate with children with respect and at their own individual developmental level and set realistic behavior expectations.
- Support children in developing problem and conflict-solving skills.
- The practice of child and educator self-reflection is key to our quality program
- Adhere to all health and safety protocols

**Qualifications and Requirements**
- Must hold a valid ECE Classification Level 1, 2 or 3 or working towards (currently enrolled in an ECE Diploma or Degree program).
- Food Handling/Safety Certificate would be an asset.
- First Aid with Infant CPR (Level C).
- Child Abuse Record Check.
- Criminal Records Check (Vulnerable Sector).

**Working Conditions**
- Caring for children is physically and mentally demanding.
- Work requires heavy lifting, bending, stooping, carrying, and reaching overhead.
- Work may require long periods of standing or walking.
- Work may require dealing effectively and calmly with emotional situations.

YWCA Halifax is committed to diversity, and we welcome all suitably qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. YWCA Halifax is governed by, employs, and serves diverse people and community members. Self-identification by applicants does not guarantee an interview but we want you to know that we understand that lived experience of racialization, Indigeneity, (dis)Ability, and gender diversity are their own knowledge and expertise. We value this expertise and consider it as we discern who to interview.

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person