Join the YMCA Employment Services Team!


Be the Spark! Join our passionate team and be the spark that ignites the potential in others. YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is one of the largest not-for-profit providers of licensed child care in Canada, offers settlement services to newcomers to Canada, operates 2 overnight camps and 16 Health & Fitness branches across Southwestern Ontario, and we have been making a positive difference in the communities we serve for over 50 years!

Position: Employment Specialist
Location: 500 Victoria Ave, Windsor
Start Date: September 9, 2024
Schedule: Monday-Friday
Salary: $26.50/hour x 40 hours/week
As part of your total compensation:
• Receive a complimentary YMCA membership to our Health & Fitness facilities, and discounts on YMCA child care and camp programs
• Vacation entitlement in accordance with the employment standards regulations
• May be entitled to up to 12 paid personal days – applicable with position and contract length
• Benefits package - applicable with position and contract length
• Be part of a caring and supportive network of people to help each other succeed
• Complimentary access to wellness and counselling services
In this role, you will:

• Development of Employability Skills Training by researching, compiling, and formulating a flexible curriculum based on life skills, labour market, job search and employability skills information relevant to the specific needs of the program and its participants
• Assist in the recruitment of eligible participants and in the development of their individualized Employment Action Plans (EAP)
• Delivery of Employability Skills Training in group and one-to-one formats as per program and participant needs. Virtual platform delivery
• Liaise with community organizations to facilitate guest speakers/workshops and community supports for participants
• Provide one-on-one supports to participants requiring employment advice/guidance during their employment opportunity
• Connect with local, regional or national employers based on the employment goals, interests, needs of participants as part of their Quality Employment Opportunity (QEO)
• Complete appropriate paperwork for participants QEO as per policies/guidelines and funders’ requirements
• Conduct appropriate and regular follow-up activities with employers and program participants
• Maintain files and prepare documentation according to internal policies/guidelines and funders’ requirements
• Understand boundaries and uses good judgment in assessing whether our ability to assist a potential participant goes beyond internal capabilities of the organization to focus on those best suitable as per our mandates and resources
• Ensure that documentation is completed and submitted within required time restrictions. Inaccurate or misunderstood information can result in severe consequences, i.e. budget slippage, undue hardship to participant, unmet targets etc.
• Ensure program adapts to often changing circumstances, to effectively serve participant and employer needs while meeting deadline
• Be committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and building a sense of belonging
• Embrace and exemplify the Y’s core values


Education and Skills Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education preferably in Employment/Career Counselling, Adult Education, Human Resources, Social Services, or combination of education and relevant work experience
• Computer skills utilizing MS Office applications including email, internet, and virtual delivery
• Excellent interpersonal skills, both written and verbal
• Experience with giving presentations; leading virtual education webinars for participants, employers and community partners
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Knowledge of second language
• Current First Aid/CPR certifications is an asset
• Current satisfactory Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Position Screen is a condition of employment. This must be maintained for the duration of employment
• Legally entitled to work in Canada
• It is a YMCA of Southwestern Ontario requirement that all employees and volunteers have a minimum of two vaccinations against COVID-19. Exemptions will be granted upon receipt of acceptable proof of a permissible Human Rights Code ground. This requirement has been suspended effective June 30, 2022. It may be reinstated in future should the state of public health in our communities require it.


Why the Y?


The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is committed to the development of healthy communities and welcomes people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. We are committed to helping our employees reach their full potential and are recognized by Forbes as one of Canada’s Top Employers. We offer meaningful employment and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families.


We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

NOTE: The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is committed to providing a barrier-free environment for all stakeholders including our members/participants, employees, job applicants, suppliers, and any visitors who may enter our premises, access our information, or use our services. As an organization, we respect and uphold the requirements set forth under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), and its associated standards and regulations.