Overview:

As one of the largest charitable community service organizations in Canada, the YMCA of the National Capital Region responds to critical social needs in the community and works to provide lasting solutions. Serving thousands of people across our region annually, we are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential.

This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of responsibility, honesty, caring, respect, and inclusion, which form the foundation of all Y programs and services.

Working for the Y

Are you looking to use your skills and unique gifts to make a real difference in your community? The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities. Whether you are starting in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals. Some of the benefits of working for the Y include:

What do you offer?

The Kitchen Assistant is accountable to the Senior Coordinator and will function as a team member responsible for overseeing the function of the kitchen, ensuring that meals and afternoon snacks are delivered to the program rooms in a timely fashion. The Kitchen Assistant will also provide support to the teachers during busy transition times at the lunch hour allowing Teachers the time to focus on the children.

The Kitchen Assistant must be courteous and professional in dealing with parents, all members, and the general public, exemplifying YMCA values, and maintaining a high standard of work ethic.

Some of the tasks of this position include:

• Deliver lunch to the program rooms.
• Ensure that staff members have the necessary items for lunch distribution.
• After lunch, ensure all leftover food and dishes are tidied up and stored according to Public Health Guidelines
• Clean, wash, sterilize, and store all dishes as per Public Health Guidelines.
• Carry out housekeeping duties, as required.
• Thoroughly rinse all catering dishes supplied, leaving them with the hot box to be returned to the caterer.
• Set out afternoon snacks and appropriate dishes on the trolleys for staff.
• In consultation with the child care coordinator, program staff and the caterer, ensure that appropriate substitute meals and snacks are provided for children with food allergies and/or dietary restrictions.
• Attend staff meetings and training seminars as required.
• Develop and maintain constructive and open communication with staff

What qualifications and abilities are we looking for?

At YMCA-YWCA of the National Capital Region, we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals.

The successful candidate will have the following:

Education

• Minimum current Food Handler Certificate
• Current Standard First Aid and CPR ‘C’ with AED Certifications
• Obtain Food Handler certification

Language

• Fluent in English; written and oral

Experience, Abilities & Skills

• Basic knowledge of child development and experience working with children
• Highly motivated, enthusiastic, and responsible individual with strong leadership skills committed to the healthy development of children
• Highly motivated, enthusiastic, and responsible individual with strong leadership skills committed to the healthy development of children
• Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position, including frequently moving around, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50lbs
• Demonstrates strong support and commitment to community activities, representing the YMCA in a professional manner

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• Criminal Reference Check for the Vulnerable Sector, not more than 6 months old is required
• Annually all staff must complete the mandatory training for Protecting Children, Youth, and Vulnerable Persons and submit the certificate of completion.
• Letter of good health from a physician prior to beginning the position
• Immunizations and Tuberculosis tests are up to date prior to beginning the position

Core Competencies:

• Communication: Communicates in a thorough, clear, and timely manner and supports information sharing and goal achievement across the Association.
• Integrity: Demonstrates responsible behaviour at all times and maintains high ethical standards.
• Teamwork: Participates actively in a team for organizational effectiveness. Creates an atmosphere of trust amongst all team members.
• Concern for Health and Safety: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.
• Creativity and Innovation: Plans and implements quality programming in a developmentally appropriate environment.

About diversity and inclusiveness at the Y:

Inclusiveness is a part of our core values and we are committed to ensuring the diversity of the people and communities we serve as well as our staff. We welcome candidates from racialized groups, invisible minorities, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

How to apply?

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position. Internal applicants can apply only after completing the probationary period of their current job unless approved by People and Culture.

Applications must be submitted to the YMCA of the National Capital Region, and all cover letters should be addressed to Nadisha Samuels. Please send applications to the Senior Coordinator, Child Care Services, Nadisha Samuels (nadisha.samuels@ymcaywca.ca) Taggart Family Y location.

Thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please advise in advance if you require any accommodation during this process. We believe all people have the right to live free from discrimination or harassment of any kind.