Smameletawtxw Little Pebbles Aboriginal Head Start is an early learning centre hosted by Mamele'awt Qweesome Housing Society (MQHS), a proud Indigenous organization located in Chilliwack, BC. We are deeply committed to providing culturally rich, high-quality early learning experiences for our children. We weave Indigenous worldviews, traditions, and teachings into every aspect of our program, fostering a strong sense of belonging, identity, and holistic development. Due to the growing demand for our Early Child Development (ECD) Centre services, we are seeking energetic, passionate, and dedicated ECE professionals to join our dynamic team.
This position(s) offers access to group benefit plans and paid professional development opportunities in a supported, caring, and respectful environment, deeply rooted in Indigenous worldviews and practices.
Major Duties & Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement child-care programs that support and promote the physical, cognitive, emotional, spiritual, and social development of children in a culturally supportive environment.
- Lead engaging activities by telling or reading stories, teaching songs, and providing opportunities to express creativity through art, dramatic play, music, and physical activity.
- Plan and maintain an environment that protects the health, security, and well-being of children.
- Assess the abilities, interests, and needs of the children and discuss progress or problems with parents and other staff members.
- Guide and assist children in the development of proper eating, dressing, and toilet habits.
- Help serve snacks and lunch to the children, ensuring proper food handling procedures.
- Help clean and sanitize the toys & centre, reporting any unsafe conditions, practices, or injuries to the Program Coordinator as soon as possible.
- Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with coworkers, Elders, and community service providers working with children, including working closely with the Aboriginal Supported Child Development (ASCD) program.
- Maintain confidentiality of all records, materials, and communications concerning clients, staff, and MQHS, with an understanding that relevant notes will be shared with ASCD.
- Provide children with positive guidance and build their self-esteem.
- All other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:
- A Valid Early Childhood Educator (ECE) license to practice from the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care.
- Infant Toddler and/or Special Needs certificate is a strong asset.
- Work experience providing childcare for children ages 0-6 years of age is an asset, with preference for experience in Indigenous-led or culturally focused programs.
- Knowledge and understanding of the Community Care and Assisted Living Act, and Childcare Licensing Regulations.
- Knowledge and understanding of the development of children and their mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Knowledge of Indigenous history and culture or willingness to learn.
- Knowledge of Aboriginal Head Start (AHS) principles, values, and guidelines or willingness to learn.
- Valid First Aid & CPR certificate.
- Food Safe certification is an asset; however, training will be provided.
- Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 8 hours in length.
- Excellent communication skills both oral and written.
- Aptitude to work independently and with minimum supervision effectively.
- Ability to maintain a healthy working relationship with staff, community representatives/members, and representatives of other organizations, including collaboration with other MQHS programs and staff as required.
- Lived experience as an Indigenous person or significant experience working within Indigenous communities and with Indigenous families is a strong asset.
WAGE RANGE: $27.78 per hour + $6 wage enhancement
TYPE OF POSITIONS: 1 Full-time Permanent Position, subject to a 3-month probationary period and planned performance evaluations.
APPLICATIONS DEADLINE: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Candidates will be screened according to the qualifications/requirements above. Please clearly indicate on your resume compliance with all indicated qualifications and requirements. Interested candidates are required to submit a resume and to indicate the job title "Early Childhood Educator" on their cover letter in confidence to:
Email: coordinator@ahsdaycare.ca
Successful candidates will be required to provide:
- Proof of education documentation.
- References: three names, emails, and phone numbers of recent supervisors/managers.
- Must successfully pass the required pre-employment Criminal Records Check through the Province of BC.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $27.78 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
Experience:
- I/T: 2 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- ECE Licence (required)
Location:
- Chilliwack, BC (preferred)
Work Location: In person