Assistant Director

YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused childcare organization is looking for an Assistant Director for their Fall River YMCA Early Learning Childcare Centre. This role involves creating a stimulating and safe environment for children and working collaboratively with staff. The ideal candidate should have an Early Childhood Education Diploma, supervisory experience, and strong knowledge in Early Learning and Child/Youth Development. The position offers competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

YMCA Health & Fitness membership

Discounts on YMCA childcare and camps

3 weeks vacation entitlement

Comprehensive benefits package

Wellbeing and counselling services

Qualifications

• Minimum Nova Scotia Level 2 requirement.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Clear Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Check.

Responsibilities

• Create a nurturing environment for children.
• Support and coach staff on curriculum.
• Ensure compliance with licensing and health regulations.

Skills

Strong knowledge of Early Learning

Supervisory experience

Knowledge of Child/Youth Development

Education

Early Childhood Education Diploma

Job description

Location: Fall River YMCA Early Learning Childcare Centre

Program: Licensed Childcare

Position Status: Full-time, Permanent

Compensation: $29.76 – $34.71/hour

About Us

There is potential inside all of us – we all have it in us to shine. At the YMCA, we exist to solve many community challenges, including childcare shortages, social isolation, mental health support, access to wellness, and more.

Our network spans 100+ program locations across HRM and Nova Scotia, providing vital programs that:

• Support mental health and wellness
• Deliver accessible childcare
• Help newcomers and immigrants
• Create safe spaces for youth to grow and lead
• Support older adults and isolated community members
• Navigate a changing labour market

We empower people to discover their inner strength. With our guidance and support, individuals and communities can Shine On.

Perks & Benefits

• Complimentary YMCA Health & Fitness membership
• Access to Y at Home fitness programs
• Discounts on YMCA childcare and camp programs
• 3 weeks’ vacation entitlement and paid wellness days
• Comprehensive benefits package and pension
• Complimentary wellbeing and counselling services

Role Overview

Reporting to the Centre Director, the Assistant Director is responsible for creating a stimulating, safe, and nurturing environment for children. You will work collaboratively with staff to foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment, helping build strong relationships, encouraging professional growth, and contributing to the overall success of the centre.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Program Quality

• Support, coach, and role model the YMCA Playing to Learn Curriculum in collaboration with staff
• Use a variety of teaching and leadership techniques: modelling, observing, questioning, demonstrating, and reinforcing best practices
• Foster a positive and inclusive team environment, promoting a sense of belonging for all staff and members
• Represent the YMCA’s values and purpose in all aspects of the role

Operations & Coverage

• Act as the primary designate in the absence of the Centre Director
• Collaborate with the Centre Director on staff scheduling and coverage
• Work in ratio to maintain compliance with provincial licensing requirements
• Provide operational support to other childcare programs as required
• Demonstrate flexibility to work outside standard hours for meetings, training, or YMCA events

Administration & Compliance

• Complete administrative duties assigned by the Centre Director
• Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, Child Safeguarding standards, provincial licensing, and Health & Safety regulations
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in operational, staff, and family matters
• Support budgetary and financial responsibilities, including grant and subsidy applications

Staff & Family Engagement

• Respond to parent and staff concerns professionally and timely
• Assist with annual staff performance reviews
• Plan and implement family committee meetings (minimum of two per year)
• Build and maintain relationships with external partners to enhance support for children and families

Other Duties

• Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications & Requirements

• Early Childhood Education Diploma or equivalent (Nova Scotia Level 2 minimum)
• Supervisory experience is an asset
• Strong knowledge and experience in Early Learning, Child/Youth Development, Inclusion, and Nova Scotia Child Care Licensing Acts and Regulations
• Current First Aid and CPR certification
• Clear Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Check
• Up-to-date Child Abuse Registry Check
• Completion of all required Child Safeguarding trainings

How To Apply

Apply online at: https://ymcahfx.ca/workwithus/

Application Deadline

February 11, 2026

Successful Candidates Are Required To Provide

• Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Registry Check (less than 6 months old)
• Attend Child Safeguarding Training upon hire
• Valid First Aid and CPR training

Background checks are reviewed on an individual basis – offenses do not automatically disqualify candidates.

Diversity & Inclusion

The YMCA is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, racially diverse, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, gender‑diverse people, people with diverse abilities, ethnic minorities, faith groups, foreign‑born residents, and veterans.

If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable accommodations.