Hulitan Early Years Centre – Early Childhood Educator

Aboriginal Head Start Association of BC; Oak Bay; On-site; CAD 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

15 vacation days yearly

12 sick days yearly

Reflective supervision and frequent team check-ins

Job summary

The Aboriginal Head Start Association of BC is seeking an Early Childhood Educator for their Hulitan Early Years Centre in British Columbia. This full-time temporary position covers a one-year maternity leave and requires a commitment to culturally grounded practices.

Candidates should have a valid Early Childhood Education Certificate and a clear criminal record check. The role focuses on supporting Indigenous children’s wellbeing and implementing culturally relevant programs.

Starting wage is $28.00 per hour plus an Early Childhood Educator Wage Enhancement of $6.00 per hour.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience working in a licensed childcare setting.
• Ability to lift children up to 50 lbs.
• Experience working with Indigenous families is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Ensure health and safety of all children in the program.
• Provide direct facilitation of daily activities.
• Implement culturally rooted curriculum and activities.

Skills

Understanding of early childhood growth and development

Knowledge of trauma-informed practice

Ability to work collaboratively

Culturally rooted teaching strategies

Education

Early Childhood Education Certificate

Valid first aid certificate with infant and child CPR

Job description

Hulitan Early Years Centre – Early Childhood Educator

External Employment Opportunity

Early Childhood Educator

Hulitan Early Years Centre

Nəcelŋ ̓ əxʷ Aboriginal HeadStart Childcare Program

Full Time Temporary Position (1 year Maternity Leave)

Join the Hulitan Family!

Hulitan Family and Community Services Society is a unique Indigenous non‑profit located in the Westshore Community of Southern Vancouver Island. Our mission is to preserve, unify and advocate for Indigenous families by supporting healing and fostering resilience through culturally rooted programs, services, and collaboration with community partners. Hulitan empowers Indigenous families and future generations, walking alongside them and using the cultural principles of Respect, Connectedness, Humility, and Integrity.

Position Description

We are seeking an Early Childhood Educator to join our family within our Nəcelŋ ̓ əxʷ Program. This position will be a temporary, full‑time position covering a one‑year maternity leave. Practicing with a trauma informed lens, the Early Childhood Educator will work collaboratively with Early Childhood Educators, Early Childhood Education Assistants, the Program Coordinator, and support staff to implement culturally rooted programming and support the overall well‑being of Indigenous children in our 3–5‑year‑old classroom. Our ECEs support the components of Aboriginal Headstart: Culture and Language, Education and School Readiness, Health Promotion, Nutrition, Parent and Family Involvement, and Social Support and Leadership.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the health, safety, and well‑being of all children in the program, following relevant policies, procedures, and regulations, and promoting active play, rest, school readiness, and nutrition.
• Provide direct facilitation of daily activities of the program, including circle time activities and songs, the classroom schedule and transition times, active play, free play, curriculum time, nutrition time, rest time and outdoor time.
• Support children with healthy nutrition and hygiene habits (toileting/diapering, hand washing, changing soiled clothing, trying foods, eating, and listening to body cues) through role modeling, education, supportive guidance, and assistance.
• Implement culturally rooted curriculum and activities that support the holistic development of the children, incorporating traditional teachings, language, and practices.
• Foster a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that promotes the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of each child, respecting their individual strengths, needs, and interests.
• Conduct ongoing observations and assessments of children’s development, and classroom and peer engagement to inform individualized planning and support. Communicate with families if any concerns or areas of development arise and work to support referrals or interventions as needed.
• Work collaboratively with other staff members, Elders, educators, and support staff, to create a cohesive and supportive team environment that prioritizes the needs and interests of the children and families we serve.
• Engage in ongoing professional development opportunities to build on knowledge and skills in early childhood education, Indigenous culture, trauma‑informed care, and other relevant areas.

Knowledge and Abilities

• Strong understanding of early childhood growth and development, teaching and learning strategies, the practice of guiding children’s behavior, and an ability to provide/willingness to learn to provide early childhood education and school readiness activities that are culturally rooted.
• Demonstrate knowledge of which traditional territories you will be practising on, respect for Indigenous cultures, and a willingness to learn.
• Commitment to continual work and reflection on decolonising practice in work with children and families and speak to the actions you are taking.
• Understanding of the provincial acts as they relate to children, youth, and families.
• Ability to work collaboratively and build positive relationships and communication with children, peers, families, and community members.
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed practice and values that align with creating an inclusive environment.

Education and Experience

• Valid Certification with the BC Early Childhood Registry – Early Childhood Education Certificate. We will not be accepting applications from ECEAs for this position.
• A clear criminal record check (including working with vulnerable people sector).
• A current and valid first aid certificate with infant and child CPR.
• Provide record of immunisation status.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience working in a licensed childcare setting.
• Experience working with Indigenous families is a strong asset.
• Physical ability to work with children, including lifting children (up to 50 lbs.), playing with and engaging in activities with children, and ability to be outdoors 3 hours per day.

What We Give in Return

We recognise the importance of family and wellness while doing this challenging work. Staff at Hulitan have 15 vacation days yearly, 12 sick days yearly, and an additional 6 sick days for those with children under the age of 12. Hulitan Early Years staff receive reflective supervision and frequent team and peer check‑ins. We offer a supportive collaborative environment that fosters personal growth, and lasting connections.

Pursuant to Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of Indigenous ancestry. Please submit your resume and cover letter to Sarah McDonald, Manager of Early Years. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted. Closing date is June 26th at 4:30 p.m. Starting wage is $28.00 per hour. In addition to this wage, you will receive the Early Childhood Educator Wage Enhancement of $6.00 per hour.