Employment Counsellor, Newcomer Support Services

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Employment Counsellor to support the delivery of Bridging the Gap: Pathways to Early Childhood Education Careers for Internationally Trained Professionals. This role operates in a high-volume, fast-paced environment and requires exceptional organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

The Employment Counsellor is responsible for designing and delivering program components that support internationally trained individuals in obtaining Early Childhood Educator (ECE) or Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) certification, meeting licensing requirements, and securing employment in the childcare sector. This includes both group facilitation and individual employment coaching.

A key focus of this role is the delivery of a 10-week occupation-specific and essential skills training program that emphasizes employment readiness, licensing requirements, and successful workforce integration. The Employment Counsellor will also engage employers and sector stakeholders to enhance employment outcomes.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Deliver one-on-one employment counselling and facilitate group workshops in person and virtually
• Conduct client assessments to determine eligibility for YECC Newcomer Services programs
• Develop individualized service plans and provide coordinated employment-related support
• Apply knowledge of labour market trends and community resources to assist clients in achieving employment goals
• Develop and facilitate childcare-specific pre-employment training, job readiness, and licensing workshops
• Conduct outreach and recruit eligible participants for the program
• Build and maintain partnerships with employers, sector stakeholders, and guest speakers
• Implement a marketing and outreach strategy to promote the program and secure job placements
• Support clients through job search, interview preparation, and job placement processes
• Conduct follow-ups with clients and employers to monitor job retention and satisfaction
• Track client progress and maintain accurate, up-to-date documentation in internal databases
• Support administrative functions related to client services and program reporting
• Assist in developing, facilitating, and coordinating program workshops and employer events
• Participate in team meetings and program evaluations to ensure continuous improvement

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree or post-graduate certificate in Employment Counselling, Social Services, or a related field, with relevant practicum or 3–5 years of employment counselling experience
• Experience and knowledge of training programs and/or the Ontario Apprenticeship system
• Knowledge of Child Care and Children’s Services is a strong asset
• Demonstrated experience working with internationally trained professionals
• Excellent facilitation skills and experience delivering both in-person and virtual workshops
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint)
• High degree of cultural competency and experience working with diverse populations
• Knowledge of local community and employment resources
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting
• Valid Ontario Driver’s License and access to a vehicle required
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings 
• A clear Police Record Check/Vulnerable Sector Check is required (to be completed when offer is made).
• A second language is an asset.