Back on Track – Primary Youth Worker

Back on Track – Primary Youth Worker

Location: Community YMCA
Program: YMCA Back on Track
Position Status: Part-time
Compensation: $18–$20 per hour

There is potential inside all of us – we all have it in us to shine.

Every charity exists to help solve a problem – our charity exists to help solve many. From childcare shortages and social isolation to mental health challenges, access to wellness, and more, the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth is committed to strengthening our communities.

Today, our network spans 100+ program locations across HRM and the province, supporting mental health, accessible childcare, newcomers, safe spaces for youth, workforce readiness, wellness for all, and connection for older adults.

When people know someone’s in their corner, with unconditional support, they realize they can do more than they thought possible. With us at their side, they can Shine On.

About the Role

YMCA Back on Track is a recognized pan-Canadian school perseverance program that supports high school students who are temporarily suspended from school due to academic, behavioural, or social challenges. The program has been nationally evaluated as a proactive approach to preventing school dropout and currently operates in over 40 locations across Canada and internationally, supporting more than 1,100 students annually.

Back on Track works in partnership with local secondary schools, school boards, and community partners. Under the supervision of the Back on Track Coordinator, and in collaboration with the Halifax Regional Centre for Education, the Primary Youth Worker is responsible for supporting students aged 12–17 during their referral period and contributing to the effective daily operation of the program.

In this role, you will:

• Intervene with high school students on an individual and group basis
• Facilitate daily group workshops on social or behavioural topics (e.g., anger management, responsibility, bullying)
• Supervise and support students with assigned schoolwork
• Implement a strong youth work approach aligned with program goals and participant objectives
• Maintain strong partnerships with referring schools
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians throughout the program and follow-up process
• Manage case files and complete data entry in the program database
• Contribute to annual reports and provide program statistics as required
• Complete general administrative duties
• Adhere to YMCA Child Safeguarding Policy, YMCA policies and procedures, and the Code of Conduct
• Understand and integrate the value of philanthropy, participating in the YMCA Annual Campaign and/or other fundraising initiatives

Education and Skills Qualifications

• University degree in youth work, social work, or a related field
• 2–3 years of experience in youth intervention
• Ability to work a flexible schedule
• No criminal record relevant to the position
• Fluency in additional languages is considered an asset

As part of your total compensation, you will receive:

• Complimentary YMCA membership to Health & Fitness facilities
• Access to Y at Home virtual fitness programs
• Discounts on YMCA childcare and camp programs
• Paid vacation entitlement and paid wellness days (pro-rated)
• Access to wellbeing and counselling services

To Apply

Please apply online at https://ymcahfx.ca/workwithus/ by February 13, 2026.

Please Note

All successful candidates are required to provide:

• Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (less than 6 months old), if 18 years of age or older
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification

Background checks are reviewed on an individual basis. Offenses, if any, are assessed in relation to the role and Child Safeguarding requirements and may not automatically disqualify candidates.

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility

At the YMCA, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where every team member feels valued and empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, racially diverse communities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, gender-diverse people, people with diverse abilities, members of ethnic minorities and faith groups, foreign-born residents, and veterans.

If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please let us know in advance so we can arrange reasonable and appropriate supports.