Lead Early Childhood Educator [Full Time]

About CVIMS:

Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society (CVIMS) is a non-profit settlement organization located in Nanaimo, B.C., Canada. Established in 1979, CVIMS provides support to newcomers and refugees. Services include settlement, employment, family, language and community programs. We are client-driven and committed to being accessible and responsive to, as well as reflective of, our diverse community.

Job Summary:

The Lead Early Childhood Educator plays a key role in supporting the holistic development of newcomer children aged 12 months to 5 years while they attend our onsite childminding. Working under the direction of the Family Services Lead, this position is responsible for implementing developmentally appropriate programming aligned with the BC Early Learning Framework. Key responsibilities will include supporting regulatory compliance within the childminding program, collaborating on curriculum development and program delivery, and fostering positive relationships with children and families. The role also works closely with the Early Years Pedagogist to support reflective, inclusive and culturally responsive practices when working with diverse families.  

Key Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Compliance

• Support and maintain program compliance with the Community Care and Assisted Living Act and Child Care Licensing Regulation for licensed childminding programs.
• Maintain required child records, safety documentation, emergency procedures and licensing standards.
• Assist with the development and implementation of childminding policies, procedures and operational practices. Keep the Parent Handbook and Childminding Staff Handbook up to date. 
• Provide guidance, mentorship and day-to-day support to childminding staff and families. Ensure staffing ratios are compliant and communicate with Team Lead when additional staffing is required.

Curriculum & Child Development

• 
  Lead the development and implementation of culturally responsive, developmentally appropriate programming aligned with the BC Early Learning Framework.
  
• Foster safe, inclusive and engaging learning environments for children aged 12 months to 5 years.
• Collaborate with Early Years Pedagogist and childminding team to strengthen reflective practice and program quality.
• Maintain and upgrade visual communication and educational resources used within the childminding program.   
• Build positive relationships with children, families and team members.
• Support administrative processes including supply requests, reporting, and documentation. Submit purchase requests, receipts and financial claims to designated approvers.  
• Participate in ongoing professional development to stay informed about advancements and best practices in early childhood education.  
• Ensure strict adherence to confidentiality, code of ethics and all other professional codes of conduct
• Work collaboratively as part of the CVIMS team to ensure agency and client success
• Follow CVIMS protocols for reporting and communication
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• And such further duties and responsibilities as may be communicated by CVIMS from time to time.

Required Education, Certifications, and Experience:

• Diploma in Early Childhood Education and valid BC Early Childhood Educator License to Practice required.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a daycare/childcare setting, preferably in a leadership role.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build trust and rapport across diverse populations. Excellent spoken and written English required.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating a high level of professionalism and integrity. 
• Training or demonstrated proficiency using client databases, Microsoft Office 365, Zoom, Teams, and other digital tools.
• Valid class 5 driver’s license and reliable transportation required for regional travel.
• Vulnerable sector criminal record check on file with CVIMS required.
• Current Emergency Childcare First Aid Certificate.

Preferred Skills, Abilities, and Assets:

• Excellent organizational skills, time-management, and problem-solving skills.
• Additional qualifications and / or training in trauma-informed practice are considered an asset.
• Mother Goose and Nobody’s Perfect certification.  
• GBA+ certification is valued.
• Fluency in a second language would be an asset.
• Priority will be given to applicants who are eligible to work in Canada for minimum 3 years.
• Accountable individual who adheres to agency policies and procedures.
• Attitudes and values in keeping with the CVIMS vision and goals.

Additional Information:

• Travel within Nanaimo Regional District and surrounding region will be required. Occasional travel to locations in other parts of British Columbia and/or Canada for purposes like professional development, networking, program delivery or conferences may also be required
• Some work outside of regular office hours, including evenings and weekends, will be required. Flex time schedules will be made to accommodate non-regular work hours. This position is eligible for overtime in accordance with the BC Employment Standards Act. All overtime must be approved in advance.
• Fully funded health/dental benefits and group RRSP available after 3-month probation
• This is a full-time, funded at 30 hours / week, working a varied weekday schedule.
• The childminding program includes scheduled annual closures totaling approximately four (4) weeks per year. These planned closures may include temporary layoff periods in accordance with the BC Employment Standards Act. Program closures are scheduled in advance to support operational planning.