Employment Coach

YMCA of Three Rivers; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A community service organization in the Waterloo Region is seeking an Employment Coach to assist job seekers, many of whom face barriers to employment. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Human Services and 2–3 years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include managing a client caseload, recruiting employers, and organizing job-focused workshops. This full-time role offers competitive pay, benefits, and a positive impact on the community.

Benefits

3 weeks of vacation

12 well-being days

YMCA membership

Access to Employee Assistance Program

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience in employment or social services.
• Valid G driver’s licence and full-time vehicle access strongly recommended.

Responsibilities

• Support employment seekers facing multiple barriers to employment.
• Proactively recruit employers and identify job matching opportunities.
• Manage a caseload of clients to achieve defined outcomes.

Skills

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office

Strong organizational skills

Attention to detail

Education

Community college degree/diploma in Human Services

Job description

Position Overview

Waterloo Region - Employment Coach

Location: Cambridge [Waterloo Region]

Work Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Employment Type: Full Time, Permanent

Number of Vacancies: 1

Anticipated Start Date: March 2, 2026

Deadline to Apply: February 16, 2026

Guaranteed Starting Hourly Rate: $24.48 per hour

Total Rewards Package

Time Away from Work for your Well-being – All full‑time team members are entitled to earn 3 weeks of vacation and have the opportunity to earn more as length of service increases. To support your overall well‑being, we also offer 12 well‑being days that team members use for sick time off or to care proactively for yourself. Bereavement days are also available.

Wellness – The YMCA of Three Rivers is committed to the health and wellness of our teams. Full‑time employees receive:

• Well‑being days that can be used as they are earned
• Access to an Employee (and Family) Assistance Program which provides free and confidential counselling, resources and services
• A free YMCA membership for yourself and your family which can be used to access our fitness centres
• Discounts on programmes and services offered by the YMCA, including child care services

Pension Plan – All full‑time employees have the opportunity to participate in a group pension plan after two consecutive years of employment, employees contribute 5% of their gross earnings per pay which is matched by the Y. After three consecutive years of full‑time service, participation in the YMCA pension plan is mandatory.

Healthcare and Dental Benefits – The YMCA of Three Rivers offers full‑time employees a comprehensive group benefit package (after 3 months from start date) that includes: prescription drugs, basic dental coverage, professional services such as registered massage therapist, physiotherapist, psychologist, psychotherapist, chiropractor and naturopath, vision care.

Responsibilities

• Support employment seekers, many of whom are facing multiple barriers to employment, and tailor support to each client. A large number of clients we serve are newcomers to Canada.
• Proactively recruit employers and identify job matching and placement opportunities to meet the unique needs of clients.
• Utilise tools such as the Common Assessment Tool (CAT) and Action Planning Tool (APT) to assess client requirements and create personalised employment action plans.
• Manage a caseload of clients, working to ensure that defined outcomes and targets are consistently achieved.
• Through coaching and mentorship, guide clients in their job search and employment processes, providing support with applications, interviews, and on‑job activities.
• Engage in case management to maintain accurate data entry and tracking throughout all stages of client interactions and progress.
• Support job placement activities by monitoring performance and offering post‑employment assistance to both clients and employers.
• Organise and deliver employment‑focused workshops, job fairs and presentations to empower clients and expand the reach and impact of the program.
• Ensure compliance with program guidelines, and contribute to program reporting and quality assurance efforts.
• Travel within the region to meet clients and employers, fostering relationships that support the programme’s success.

Qualifications

• Completion of a community college degree/diploma in Human Services.
• 2–3 years of experience in employment or social services.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office, database systems, etc.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Valid G driver’s licence and full‑time vehicle access strongly recommended due to regular travel across the region.
• Acceptable police check.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities.

What You Will Gain

You will be part of an organisation that has a massive impact across our community. You will be joining a local organisation, but you will also be part of a global movement. Your work will have an impact and the community we all call home will be a little better every day because of you. We provide several continuous professional learning opportunities at no cost to you.

This role requires regular travel across the region, which may not always be easily accessible through public transit. A valid G driver’s licence and full‑time vehicle access are strongly recommended.

Application Process

If you are an external candidate interested in joining our team, please click the apply button below to create an application. Internal candidates can apply through the internal career centre by clicking here. The posting will be open until February 16, 2026, however, we will begin reviewing applications as they arrive to find the right person for this opportunity.

Please note that due to the large volume of applications received, only candidates being considered for the position will be contacted.

EEO Statement

The YMCA of Three Rivers embraces diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace, welcoming applications from all qualified persons. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, accommodation will be provided at any point throughout the hiring process, provided the candidate makes their accommodation need known to the YMCA of Three Rivers. The YMCA of Three Rivers complies with the Employment Standards Act, Pay Equity Legislation and privacy laws. In keeping with privacy laws, we are committed to protecting personal information by following responsible information handling practices. For more information on the YMCA of Three Rivers’ commitment to privacy, please visit our website.

Additional Requirements

As an organisation committed to the safety and well‑being of children, youth and other vulnerable populations, we prioritize the protection of those under our care. All employees must meet specific requirements, including obtaining a clear Police Vulnerable Sector Check and providing three professional references.

Explore Other Opportunities

To explore additional career opportunities with the YMCA of Three Rivers, please visit our Career Page.