Job Description: Youth Development Worker (Ages 8-13)
Maternity Leave Contract (Sept 1, 2025 - March 31, 2026)
Position: Youth Development Worker
Pay Rate: $27.50/hr
Hours: 35 hrs/week
Benefits: Cost-shared
Schedule: Mon-Fri, some evenings and weekends as required. Flexible.
Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Youth Development Worker to join our team, focused on engaging at-risk youth (ages 8-13) in recreation-based mentorship programs. Through outdoor activities, sports, and adventure-based learning, this role provides positive mentorship and guidance to help young individuals develop self-confidence, resilience, and essential life skills. The ideal candidate will have experience working with youth, an understanding of trauma-informed practices, and a passion for helping young people thrive through recreation and relationship-building.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Mentorship and Recreation-Based Support:
- Establish trusting relationships with youth through consistent and meaningful engagement.
- Act as a positive role model, encouraging healthy decision-making and self-confidence.
- Lead and participate in outdoor activities, sports, hiking, and other recreational programs to foster personal growth.
- Support multiple youth in group settings
- Evaluate pro-social opportunities for youth and connect them appropriately
- Promote a safe, supportive environment where youth feel valued and heard.
2. Individualized Support Plans:
- Work collaboratively with each youth to co-develop personalized growth plans tailored to their strengths and challenges.
- Support youth in setting and achieving goals related to personal development, education, and recreation.
- Monitor progress and adapt plans to meet evolving needs.
3. Education and Life Skills Development:
- Help youth build positive habits, discipline, and social skills through structured activities.
- Provide mentorship in areas such as leadership, teamwork, and conflict resolution.
- Encourage participation in community programs and extracurricular activities.
4. Crisis Intervention and Trauma-Informed Support:
- Utilize trauma-informed care practices to engage and support youth effectively.
- Provide immediate assistance and intervention in crisis situations, ensuring safety and emotional well-being.
- Connect youth and families with appropriate community resources for additional support.
5. Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain accurate records of interactions, progress, and incidents.
- Prepare regular reports on the youth’s development and program effectiveness.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 1 year of experience working with children and youth, particularly those considered at-risk or vulnerable.
- Degree or diploma in a related field (e.g., Social Work, Child and Youth Care, Recreation Therapy, Kinesiology, Psychology, or Education).
- Coaching experience with children or youth is considered a strong asset.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with young people and build rapport.
- Knowledge of child development, trauma-informed care, and strategies for engaging at-risk youth.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.
- A valid Class 5 B.C. driver’s license and reliable transportation is required.
Application Process:
Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter outlining their experience and qualifications. Please send your application to timr@childhoodconnections.ca by Friday, August 22, 2025.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability or age.
Join our team and make a lasting impact!
Help us empower at-risk youth through recreation, mentorship, and adventure-based learning—shaping their future one step at a time.
Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Pay: $27.50-$30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Licence/Certification:
- First Aid Certification (preferred)
Work Location: In person
Expected start date: 2025-09-01