Skills Coach - Nanaimo

Canucks-Autism-Network-Society; Nanaimo; On-site; CAD 32,000 - 37,000; Part time

Job summary

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is seeking enthusiastic Skills Coaches to lead the skill development of participants, implement CAN program curriculum, and create a positive and fun learning environment across multiple Nanaimo locations.

Under the direction of Onsite Supervisors, Coaches provide guidance to Support Workers and Volunteers during program time. Training is provided, and small class sizes support growth and mentorship.

Qualifications

• Must be 16 years of age or older.
• Minimum of 1 year experience coaching children/youth sport(s) and/or leading and planning group activities in a recreational setting.
• Must have a valid Standard First Aid and CPR-C Certification (at minimum)
• Able to provide appropriate references and a clear criminal record check
• Must be able to skate both forwards and backwards (Skate programs only)

Responsibilities

• Creates and delivers organized lesson plans that match the program curriculum and participant needs.
• Uses autism-informed coaching methods and adapts activities to support different abilities, communication styles, and sensory needs.
• Creates a positive, supportive, and enjoyable learning environment.
• Works with the Onsite Supervisor to ensure successful participant-staff matches.
• Ensures activities run smoothly and that sessions start and end on time, including setup and cleanup.

Skills

Coaching experience

Skating ability

Reliability

Team player

Education

First Aid & CPR-C Certification

Job description

Wage: $23/hour + 10% in lieu of benefits

Schedule & Hours: Various schedules and hours based on program(s)

Locations: Multiple locations across Nanaimo

Fall 2026 Available Programs:

• Skate @ Cliff McNabb Arena: Fridays, October 23 to November 27, from 4:00 - 5:15 pm

Program opportunities are available year-round, and we recruit for each season closer to the start of the program. Specific program details will be provided during the recruitment process.

Position Description

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is a charitable organization dedicated to building inclusive communities where individuals on the autism spectrum can thrive. Our vision is for every Autistic individual to be understood, accepted and supported in all community spaces.

We engage a workforce of over 200 volunteers and 450 frontline staff to deliver programs for children, youth, and adults on the spectrum in communities across British Columbia. In total, there are over 20,100 Autistic individuals and family members accessing CAN programs in our registration system.

CAN is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated Skills Coach to join our team. As a Coach you will lead the skill development of participants, implement CAN program curriculum, and create a positive and fun learning environment. Under the direction of our skilled Onsite Supervisors, Coaches are also responsible for providing guidance and leadership to the Support Workers and Volunteers assisting participants during program time. All Coaches receive in-house training, ongoing mentorship and training, and benefit from small class sizes.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may vary depending on program format and participant needs. Support Workers contribute to the overall success of programs by supporting participants, facilitating engagement, and collaborating with the team.

Program Instruction & Participant Engagement

• Creates and delivers organized lesson plans that match the program curriculum and participant needs.
• Uses autism-informed coaching methods and adapts activities to support different abilities, communication styles, and sensory needs.
• Creates a positive, supportive, and enjoyable learning environment.
• Works with the Onsite Supervisor to ensure successful participant-staff matches.
• Ensures activities run smoothly and that sessions start and end on time, including setup and cleanup.

Staff Supervision, Mentorship, & Communication

• Provides clear instructions and support to Support Workers and Volunteers during program activities.
• Works closely with the Onsite Supervisor to meet participant needs and ensure programs run successfully.
• Shares lesson plans and activity expectations with staff and volunteers ahead of time.
• Helps ensure volunteers are assigned meaningful and productive roles within the program.
• Models professionalism, teamwork, and respectful communication with participants, families, and coworkers.

Organization, Administration, & Professional Accountability

• Arrives prepared with the necessary equipment, lesson materials, and activity plans.
• Reliably picks up, transports, and returns equipment on time.
• Demonstrates good time management, organization, and attention to detail.
• Follows program procedures, safety guidelines, and organizational expectations.
• Adapts appropriately to changes in programming or participant needs.
• Maintains a professional and dependable approach throughout the session.

Sustainable Work Practices and Wellbeing

• Engage in self-reflective practices and open communication with supervisors to support personal wellbeing, maintain healthy boundaries and contribute to a sustainable and supportive work environment.

Requirements

• Must be 16 years of age of older.
• A minimum of 1 year experience in coaching children/youth sport(s) and/or leading and planning group activities in a recreational setting
• Must have a valid Standard First Aid and CPR-C Certification (at minimum)
• Able to provide appropriate references and a clear criminal record check
• Must be able to skate both forwards and backwards (Skate programs only)

Knowledge, Assets and Skills

• Punctual and reliable: committed to 100% program attendance
• Autism experience and knowledge an asset
• Previous experience as a community coach an asset
• Fun, enthusiastic, motivated, and a positive team player

Approach

• Committed to treating Autistic children with dignity, respect, and understanding in all interactions
• Works in alignment with CAN’s neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed practices, prioritizing safety, choice and trust.
• Collaborative, flexible, and supportive team member
• Patient, enthusiastic, and responsive to participant needs
• Open to feedback and commitment to ongoing learning, reflection and growth.

We thank all of those who apply but only those selected will be contacted for an interview.

Please note that all chosen candidates will need to successfully complete our online criminal record check to move forward in the hiring process. Additionally, successful candidates/new employees must complete all training and necessary paperwork prior to starting the program.