Children and Youth Program Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:             Under the supervision of the Program Supervisor and the technical direction and guidance of the Program Coordinators, is responsible for the development and implementation of specific programs, and Specialist areas for children aged 5-13. Programs are accessible and dynamic in nature, designed to meet the needs of differing ages, and sites/neighbourhoods. These programs will include registered programs and drop-in programs. Managing assigned administrative duties.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Develops and implements a program in the area of Specialization. Co-ordinate one or more of the following areas: Marketing (Advertising, P.S.A.’s, Media invites, etc.), Photography, School Presentations, Supplies, Equipment, Operations, Volunteers, Health and Safety or a new initiative.
2. Acts as a special skill resources person for all program staff and other division programs.
3. Assists in developing and conducting staff training sessions. Plans and conducts development sessions for staff meetings and other occasions as required. Attends all scheduled meetings and training sessions.
4. Assists Program Coordinator in the completion of administrative duties (i.e. program planning, creating and updating staff, resource and program manuals, development of work schedule, collecting and compiling of information for statistical purposes requisition and purchase of supplies, equipment/supply control, movement of equipment/supplies etc.).
5. Assists the Program Coordinator in the supervision and evaluation of program staff.
6. Liaises with community contacts and assists in the planning and implementation of program specific needs, including, the transportation system and child supervision prior to program beginning and after program ends for the day.
7. Submits written evaluations of training sessions, staff performance, and program delivery and effectiveness. This includes a comprehensive report immediately upon completion of the program.
8. Assists in the promotion of programs. Conducts public relations activities.
9. Implements safety procedures and ensures that standards are met in all phases of program operations.
10. Ensures all program rules and regulations are met with respect to staff and participants.
11.  Coordinates the ordering of supplies/materials and ensures that they are available and pre delivered to appropriate sites; supervises inventory of supplies and equipment for the pre-program, in-program and post-program periods.
12. Assists the Program Coordinator upon request in the resolution of program issues.
13. Ensures that all children are cared for with respect and understanding. Supports the inclusion of children with disabilities into the program.
14. Meets with and reports to the Program Supervisor – Children & Youth/Program Supervisor – Children, Youth & JIS where appropriate.
15. Acts on the Program Coordinator’s behalf in his/her absence.
16. Is on site regularly; implementing programming, assisting in supervising staff/volunteers, communicating with parents and interacting with participants.
17. Performs such other related duties as may be assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Experience:

• Secondary school diploma;
• Two years’ recent experience in leadership programming in the area of specialization (e.g. special events, arts, sports & games, outdoor recreation, nature studies, waterfront and crafts)
• Demonstrated experience in community recreation and/or children’s programs and/or related volunteer experience.
• Demonstrated involvement in coaching, teaching and working with children in a recreation/sport setting.

Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Self-starter with proven organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• Ability to work in a diverse and dynamic environment
• Independent judgment when dealing with confidential or sensitive issues
• Ability to work in a diverse and dynamic environment;
• Understanding of the recreational needs and interests of children ages 5-13

Assets:

• Bronze cross
• Experience working with children with disabilities

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Available for the complete length of seasonal program; end of August-June or May- beginning of September
• May-beginning of September, 5 Days per weeks (35-40 hours per week), including availability for irregular hours.
• End of August-June, irregular part-time (12-15 hours per week) hours.

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Must undergo a successful Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC)
• Will be required to travel to various work locations and provide own transportation
• Must be able to work irregular hours (evenings and weeks) if required
• Must be available for job specific training and corporate training
• Must possess Standard First Aid Certificate Level C CPR.
• Must have completed, or be eligible to complete HIGH FIVE Principles of Healthy Childhood Development and Quest