YPHD Programmer

YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 23,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health membership

Y at Home access

Vacation days

Health benefits

Counselling services

Job summary

The YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth is hiring a YPHD Programmer to deliver before and after school programming at multiple elementary sites in Dartmouth and surrounding areas. The role focuses on safety, inclusivity, engagement, and nurturing development for children.

You will supervise, support physical activity, and guide learning through play while adhering to YMCA policies and provincial program requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required for the role.
• Minimum one year of childcare experience with demonstrated success.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong professional reference available on request.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement and participate in developmentally appropriate programming.
• Create inclusive indoor/outdoor learning environments that promote curiosity and learning through play.
• Supervise children and ensure health, safety and wellbeing at all times.
• Maintain attendance records, child documentation, and family communications.
• Collaborate with families, colleagues, and community partners to support learning.
• Provide coverage at other program locations when needed.
• Communicate updates and concerns to the Site Coordinator in a timely manner.

Skills

Childcare experience

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

First Aid and CPR certification

Job description

Locations: St. Catherine’s Elementary School, Duc d’Anville Elementary School, Inglis Street Elementary School, Westmount Elementary School, Joseph Howe Elementary School

Program: YMCA Physical Healthy Development (YPHD) Before & After School

Position Status: Full-Time and Part-Time Contract Positions (September 2026 - June 2027)

Compensation: $17.00-$17.50 per hour

There is potential inside all of us – we all have it in us to Shine On.

Every charity exists to help solve a problem. Our charity exists to help solve many—from childcare shortages and social isolation to mental health challenges, access to wellness, and more.

Today, our network spans more than 100 program locations throughout HRM and across the province, meeting the most urgent needs of our communities through mental health supports, accessible childcare, programs for newcomers, safe spaces where youth can grow and lead, employment supports, wellness programming, and opportunities for older adults to build meaningful community.

We give people the tools, encouragement, and safe space to discover their inner strength. When they know someone is in their corner, with unconditional support, they realize they can do more than they thought possible. Your support, expertise, and guidance help people ignite their full potential and shape our neighbourhoods into vibrant, healthy communities.

With us at their side, they can Shine On.

Why Join the YMCA?

As Part Of Your Total Compensation Package, You'll Receive

• Complimentary YMCA Health & Fitness membership
• Access to Y at Home virtual fitness programming

Full Time Employees Also Receive

• Three (3) weeks of vacation entitlement plus paid wellness days
• Comprehensive health benefits and pension plan
• Complimentary employee wellbeing and counselling services

About The Role

Reporting to the Site Coordinator, the YPHD Programmer is responsible for delivering high-quality before and after school programming that creates a safe, inclusive, engaging, and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

The Programmer ensures compliance with YMCA policies and procedures, Provincial Before and After Program (BAP) requirements, and Child Safeguarding standards while actively supervising children and facilitating meaningful learning experiences through play. This role also supports the day-to-day operation of the program by maintaining a safe environment, building positive relationships with children and families, and contributing to the overall success of the site.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and actively participate in engaging, developmentally appropriate programming that supports children's physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development while promoting healthy, active lifestyles.
• Create, implement, and evaluate inclusive indoor and outdoor learning environments that encourage curiosity, independence, positive self-concept, and learning through play.
• Use a variety of teaching strategies - including modelling, observing, questioning, demonstrating, and positive reinforcement to support children's learning and development.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment through active supervision and by ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of all children.
• Complete required administrative responsibilities accurately and on time, including attendance records, child documentation, incident reports, and family communications.
• Build positive and respectful relationships with children, families, colleagues, and community partners.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment by demonstrating YMCA leadership competencies and fostering a culture of belonging and inclusion.
• Represent YMCA values while complying with all YMCA policies, Child Safeguarding standards, Provincial Before and After Program requirements, licensing regulations, and Occupational Health and Safety standards.
• Submit timesheets and payroll documentation through Payworks by established deadlines.
• Provide coverage support at other program locations when required.
• Communicate program updates, operational needs, successes, and concerns to the Site Coordinator in a timely manner.
• Respond professionally to parent and caregiver inquiries, escalating complex concerns when appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum one (1) year of childcare experience with demonstrated success in responsibilities related to this role.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• A strong professional reference.

Successful Candidates Must Provide

• Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (issued within the last six months) if 18 years of age or older.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.
• Successful completion of YMCA Child Safeguarding Training upon hire.

Background checks are reviewed individually. Any offences are assessed based on the responsibilities of the role and Child Safeguarding requirements and do not automatically eliminate candidates from employment.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

At the YMCA, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.

As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour; racially diverse individuals; members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community; gender-diverse people; people with disabilities; members of ethnic minorities and faith groups; newcomers to Canada; and veterans.

If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment or hiring process, please let us know in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made.