Early Childhood Education Assistant

Classification: Band 3 — Level 1B — Skilled Trades / Technical

Reports To: Childcare Manager

Location: Hitacu, BC (qʷayac̓iikʔiis Childcare Centre)

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Salary Band: Band 3 ($54,750 – $76,611 · $28.08 – $39.29/hr)

POSITION PURPOSE

The Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA) supports the delivery of high-quality early learning and care at the qʷayac̓iikʔiis Childcare Centre. Working under the supervision of Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) and the Childcare Manager, the ECEA assists with the supervision, care, and engagement of children in a licensed childcare environment. The ECEA supports early learning programming by assisting ECEs with activity preparation, observing and sharing information about children's development, supporting inclusive practices, and helping maintain environments that promote play-based learning. This role is distinguished from the Childcare Support Worker by a higher level of training, the ability to provide guidance to Support Workers, and involvement in developmental observation and individual support planning.

ACCOUNTABILITY

Child Supervision

• Provide active and attentive supervision of children to ensure their safety and wellbeing at all times
• Support children in daily routines including meals, rest time, outdoor play, transitions, and personal care routines such as diapering and toileting
• May support toilet learning strategies with ECE guidance
• Assist staff in maintaining appropriate staff-to-child ratios as required under the BC Child Care Licensing Regulation
• Support safe transitions between activities and program areas

Program Support

• Assist Early Childhood Educators in implementing play-based learning activities aligned with the BC Early Learning Framework
• Assist with preparing materials and maintaining organized learning environments that support children's exploration and play
• Observe children during play and daily activities and share observations with ECEs to support program planning
• Support inclusive practices that respect the individual needs, abilities, and backgrounds of all children
• Support activities that reflect Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ culture, community values, and connection to land and place
• Support ECEs in implementing individual support strategies for children when required

Positive Guidance

• Model respectful behaviour and positive interactions with children
• Support children in developing social skills, emotional regulation, and cooperative play
• Assist ECEs in implementing positive and developmentally appropriate guidance strategies

Health & Safety

• Follow childcare centre policies and procedures related to safety, hygiene, and supervision
• Assist with maintaining clean, safe, and sanitary childcare environments
• Report injuries, incidents, or safety concerns to supervising staff and assist with required documentation
• Follow emergency procedures including fire drills, evacuation procedures, and other safety protocols

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with ECEs, ECEAs, Childcare Support Workers (RA) and other staff to support daily program operations
• Provide guidance to Childcare Support Workers (RA) when appropriate by modelling positive interactions and program routines
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with colleagues and families
• Participate in staff meetings or training when required

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Valid Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA) Certificate recognized in British Columbia
• First Aid and CPR (Emergency Child Care preferred) certification
• Clear Criminal Record Check (Vulnerable Sector)

Preferred:

• Experience working with children in childcare settings
• Experience working with Indigenous children, families, or communities
• Familiarity with Nuu-chah-nulth culture, language, or community values

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Understanding of child development and play-based learning principles
• Ability to work positively and patiently with young children
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to follow direction and support licensed childcare staff
• Dependability and attentive supervision
• Professionalism and sound judgment

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work occurs in a licensed childcare environment with children ages birth to 7 years
• Frequent lifting, bending, standing, and sitting at children's level
• Outdoor play in all weather conditions
• Work can be physically and emotionally demanding

CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS

• Respect for Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ children, families, and cultural values
• Willingness to support culturally grounded programming
• Openness to learning about Nuu-chah-nulth traditions and language

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive base salary
• Extended Health and Dental Benefits (applicable from day one!)
• Enrolment into Municipal Pension Plan
• 4-weeks' paid vacation (with incremental increases for years of service)
• Paid personal and flex day
• Paid days off during the Christmas break
• Hybrid work arrangements (subject to operational requirements)

Please note: eligibility for the benefits and programs listed above varies by employment type, schedule, and applicable program criteria. The specific benefits and programs accessible to the successful candidate will be discussed during the interview process.

This job description is intended to convey the general nature and level of work expected. YG reserves the right to amend and update responsibilities to meet operational needs. Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ citizens are encouraged to apply.

Direct reports and reporting relationships reflect the current structure of the organization. They may change over time in support of the needs of the work and organizational outcomes, and any change will be confirmed with the affected employee.