Relief Staff

umbrellafamilyandchildcentresofhamilton; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 39,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Retirement plan

Employee assistance program

Unionized environment

Vacation and sick time

Job summary

Umbrella Family is hiring Relief Staff for multiple Hamilton centres. The role supports classroom staff, delivers developmentally appropriate activities, and travels between sites to provide coverage. A reliable vehicle and on-call flexibility are essential, with hours ranging from 28.25 to 37.5 per week.

Pay starts at $28.00 per hour (collective agreement), with a lower rate for alternate coverage; a strong commitment to inclusive, safe childcare is expected.

Qualifications

• Related experience in a childcare setting
• Post-secondary education in ECE/Child & Youth Care or OCT membership preferred
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
• Willingness to work in an on-call capacity with flexible scheduling

Responsibilities

• Implement developmentally appropriate activities for children
• Supervise children and ensure safety
• Assist in travel between centres to provide coverage
• Support staff during programming and transitions
• Maintain hygiene and safety of toys and spaces
• Complete accident reports when needed
• Contribute to a welcoming childcare environment

Skills

Driver's license

On-call flexibility

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

ECE / Child & Youth Care related

Tools

First Aid CPR

Vulnerable Sector Check

Food Handler Certificate

Job description

Relief Staff

Permanent, Full time

Build your career where you truly belong — welcome to Umbrella Family.

For over 35 years, we’ve been a trusted leader in early childhood education, powered by passionate staff who make a real impact every day. At Umbrella Family, you’re supported, heard, and empowered to grow in a collaborative environment designed to help you thrive.

Join a workplace that values your contributions and celebrates the connection you make with children and their families. This isn’t just a job — it’s your opportunity to be part of something special.

Location: Hillcrest Centre, 40 Eastwood Street, Hamilton, ON L8H 6R7

Total Hours per Week: minimum of 28.25 to a maximum 37.5 hours

Schedule: Hours vary

Pay Rate (per Collective Agreement, includes wage grants):

$28.00 per hour

Non $ 26.35 per hour

About the Role

The Relief Staff is responsible for providing a safe, welcoming, and developmentally appropriate environment for all children in our centres. You will support classroom staff, implement programming in alignment with How Does Learning Happen; and travel to different sites providing coverage as needed. Your role is flexible, varied, and integral to maintaining a high-quality childcare experience for children and families.

Qualifications

• Related experience in a childcare setting
• Post-secondary education in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child & Youth Care, Recreation & Leisure, or membership in the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) preferred
• Demonstrated knowledge of How Does Learning Happen?
• Must have access to a reliable vehicle and a valid driver's license, as this position requires regular travel to centre locations in Hamilton
• Willingness to work in an on-call capacity with flexible scheduling
• Availability to work from Monday to Friday, within the 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM time frame.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for diversity, equality, and inclusion advocacy.

Certifications

• Valid Driver’s license and daily access to a reliable vehicle
• Standard First Aid with CPR Level C
• Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Police Check
• Proof ofup-to-date immunizations(TB, Tetanus, MMR)
• Food Handler’s Certificate an asset.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement programs and activities that support children’s cognitive, physical, social, cultural, and emotional development
• Supervise children at all times, ensuring their safety and well-being
• Organize indoor and outdoor play areas, ensuring spaces are safe, clean, and welcoming
• Maintain hygiene and safety standards for toys, equipment, and food areas
• Administer first aid and complete accident reports when necessary
• Conduct daily checks on children and notify supervisors of any unusual circumstances
• Support classroom staff during programming, breaks, and transitions
• Travel between centre sites as required, and provide flexible coverage on short notice
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the smooth operation of the centre

Why Join Umbrella Family?

• Comprehensive benefits package
• Robust retirement plan with employer matching
• Access to Employee Assistance Program
• Unionized environment supporting work-life balance
• Generous vacation and sick time entitlements
• Priority childcare placement for employees’ children
• Positive, collaborative, and supportive work environment

Commitment to Accessibility

We are committed to providing accommodations in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Please let us know if you require accommodations during the hiring process.

Recruitment Process Disclosure

This organization does not use artificial intelligence (AI) systems or automated decision-making technologies in the screening, assessment, or selection of applicants for employment. All applications are evaluated exclusively through a human review process conducted by our Human Resources personnel and hiring managers.