We are seeking two passionate and organized Summer Assistant Coordinators (Junior and Senior Ace) to oversee each of our 2 summer programs targeted to children in the younger and older elementary school-age groups. The Summer Assistant Coordinators will be responsible for overseeing summer counselors and volunteers while designing and executing a diverse range of activities and events that align to weekly programming. The ideal candidate will have a strong background and experience working with individuals with Autism or other developmental disabilities, program development and leadership, excellent communication skills, and a genuine enthusiasm for play.
Programs will run from Monday to Friday between 8 am and 4 pm and will operate onsite at one of our community partner locations.
Responsibilities:
- Work closely with the Summer Ace Coordinator to develop and implement programming that is engaging, relevant, and appeals to the target participant group, considering factors such as interests, age and developmental level
- Collaborate with program staff and volunteers to ensure activities align with program goals
- Incorporate both structured and unstructured activities to support varied interests and energy levels
- Support participants with engagement when they are feeling distressed
- Assist the Ace Summer Coordinator with logistics such as equipment, supplies, and facilities to support program activities
- Communicate regularly with participants and their families to provide updates and gather feedback
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and risk management procedures
- Serve as a positive role model and mentor for participants, staff, and volunteers
- Regularly assess the effectiveness of the programming approach through participant feedback and staff observation
- Adjust programming as needed based on feedback; address any areas of improvement
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree completed or in progress in the following areas: recreation management, education, disability studies, psychology, etc.
- Previous experience coordinating programs or events, preferably in a summer camp or recreational setting
- Previous experience working with children with Autism and/or other developmental disabilities
- Comfortable supporting participants with basic self-care tasks (handwashing, changing into bathing suits, drying after water play)
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to lead and create a collaborative team environment
- Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and environments
- Comfortable swimming and supporting participants in water-based play, including public swimming pools
- Current Standard First Aid and CPR – Level C certification (or willingness to obtain)
- Clear Police Information Check (or willingness to obtain)
- Clear Child Intervention Record Check (or willingness to obtain)
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training provided during orientation
** As these positions are funded through the Canada Summer Job Grant, applicants are required to:
- be between 18 and 30 years of age at the beginning of the employment period
- be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment
- have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment; legally entitled to work in Canada
Rate: $23.00 /hour
Dates of employment: June 8, 2026 to August 18, 2026
- June 8 – 26: Planning and preparing for summer programming, conducting participant intakes, and communicating with families; final week of preparation before the participants arrive includes providing counselor training (35 hours/week)
- June 29 to August 14: Collaborate with Summer Coordinator to lead summer programs, supporting participants, staff and volunteers (40 hours/week)
- August 17 & 18: final paperwork; clean-up (two 8-hour days)
** Please note: Availability to work all weeks of the program is required **
If you are enthusiastic about creating meaningful experiences for Autistic participants and fostering a love of learning and exploration, we encourage you to apply for the Assistant Coordinator position. Join our team and help us make a difference in the lives of our participants!
To apply, please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your leadership experiences, why you’re passionate about working with Autistic individuals, and any relevant certifications to Stephanie Burgess, HR Recruiter: sburgess@centreforautismab.ca
