Job Description - Early Learning Educator
Position: Early Learning Educator
Reporting to: Early Learning Programs Coordinator
Department: Early Learning and Childcare
Summary
First Light’s Early Learning & Childcare Centre delivers programming through a combination of Family Resource initiatives and targeted early learning education services in our school age program.
The Early Learning Educator plays a vital role in planning and implementing high-quality programming that promotes the health, safety, and well-being of all children. As a hybrid position this role offers flexible support across family resource and school age programs providing consistent, holistic care to families.
In addition to classroom support, the educator contributes to the planning, facilitation, and delivery of culturally relevant activities in collaboration with the team. At First Light, our Early Learning and Childcare team is committed to developing programs that nurture the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and cultural needs of children and families, ensuring that all programming reflects and respects the diversity of our community.
Who You Are and What You Carry
You are deeply committed to supporting Indigenous families through culturally grounded programming. With warmth, empathy, and strong relationship-building skills, you create safe, enriching spaces where children and families feel supported and valued.
You are:
- A strong communicator who can connect with children, parents, elders, and community members
- Approachable, compassionate, and grounded in relationship-building
- Adaptable and responsive to the unique cultural and social dynamics of Indigenous families
- Committed to continuous improvement and community-based support
You carry:
- Attention to detail and the ability to maintain organized records
- Innovation in creating developmentally and culturally relevant programs and activities
- The ability to deliver a variety of age-appropriate teachings
- Strong organizational skills that support smooth and efficient operations
- Effective time management and flexibility to meet the changing needs of families and communities
What You’ll Do
Plan and Deliver Culturally Relevant Programming
- Collaboratively plan, develop, and deliver programs and services that reflect Indigenous culture, traditions, and values
- Offer both indoor and outdoor programming tailored to the developmental and cultural needs of families
Support Holistic Well-Being
- Take a holistic approach that nurtures the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being of children and families
- Create safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces in Early Learning and Childcare settings
Build Strong Relationships
- Communicate effectively with families, elders, community members, and external partners
- Facilitate programs with empathy and compassion to foster trust and belonging
Connect Families with Resources
- Refer families to culturally appropriate services and collaborate with external agencies
- Ensure families have access to the care, support, and resources they need
Promote Family Wellness
- Develop and lead programming that supports the well-being of children, parents, and caregivers
- Address family needs through relevant and responsive programming
Respond and Adapt
- Respond to emerging needs and challenges with flexibility and a team-based approach
- Contribute to continuous improvement of program delivery and family support services
Skills, Experience, and Requirements
- Certified Early Childhood Educator / Child & Youth (through AECENL)
- Current First Aid and CPR (child) certification
- Knowledge of child development, parenting programs, and family support services—or a willingness to learn
- Lived experience or ties to Indigenous communities and knowledge keepers is considered an asset
- Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions—or a willingness to learn
- Ability to build trust and support diverse families with compassion and conflict resolution skills
- Clear criminal record check and vulnerable sector screening
- Reliable transportation
Pay: $18.06-$26.53 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Dental care
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
