We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Program Manager to join The Homestead – Transition and Support Service. This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to lead and support Early Childhood Education within our trauma-informed residential care setting.

About The Homestead – Transition and Support Service

The Homestead is a local not-for-profit organization committed to addressing critical gaps in the child welfare and foster care system through a trauma-informed residential model. Our vision is rooted in values that prioritize the developmental needs and well-being of children, believing that the best interests of the child must always come first. We collaborate closely with Social Development and community resources to deliver child-centered care, guided by the values and principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Located in a natural environment with forests, a brook, and gardens, our home provides opportunities for exploration and play, encouraging children to connect with each other, themselves, and the surrounding world in a naturally healing environment.

About the Position

The Program Manager will oversee a team of support staff, ensuring high standards of care for children and youth aged 0-12. This role involves active participation in the development and implementation of individualized care plans and therapeutic programs designed for children who have experienced trauma.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Management:

• Oversee the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate curriculum.

• Lead and mentor staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.

• Conduct regular inspections to ensure staff training is up-to-date, documenting and tracking accordingly.

• Facilitate hiring, orientation, and ongoing staff training.

• Prepare and review staff schedules, ensuring adequate coverage and minimizing overtime.

• Maintain accurate staff records and address performance concerns as needed.

• Ensure all staff adhere to policies, procedures, and relevant legislation (e.g., Protection of Persons in Care Act, Human Rights Code, company handbook).

• Early Childhood Education Leadership:

• Support staff in fostering a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment for children.

• Monitor and document children's progress, developmental milestones, and daily logs.

• Collaborate with therapeutic and community programs to support individual child needs.

• Promote positive behaviors, social interaction, and emotional well-being among children.

• Engage with families to support child development and facilitate effective communication.

• Safety Procedures:

• Conduct weekly and monthly inspections to ensure the home and operations meet safety and regulatory standards (e.g., fire drills, emergency procedures, hazardous material storage).

• Ensure all food, medications, and supplies are stored, handled, and disposed of safely.

• Recognize and respond to concerns of abuse and neglect promptly.

• Health Management:

• Ensure the physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual needs of each child are met.

• Implement and monitor meal plans, dietary restrictions, medication administration, and infection control procedures.

• Follow and enforce all instructions from health professionals.

• Relationships and Community Development:

• Promote normalization and inclusion by supporting participation in community options and nurturing positive relationships.

• Assist in developing opportunities for children to form friendships and community connections.

• Oversee management of petty cash and personal funds, ensuring accurate records and adherence to budget.

• Organizational Duties:

• Prepare, review, and maintain all required records, logs, and reports (e.g., incident reports, meeting minutes, communication logs).

• Attend and participate in all relevant meetings and required training sessions.

• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in all aspects of work.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary degree in psychology, sociology, human services, early childhood education, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience) preferred.

• Minimum of 3 years' experience working with children and youth in a residential care setting, with at least 3 years in a management or leadership role.

• Demonstrated knowledge/experience in Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma-informed care, FASD, Intellectual Disabilities, and best practices in child development.

• Valid First Aid and CPR certification (including infant/emergency).

• Certification in NVCI (Nonviolent Crisis Intervention), Safe Talk, and safe food handling (or willingness to complete upon hire).

• Clear criminal background check, child abuse registry check, and vulnerable sector screening.

• Valid driver's license, clear driver's abstract, and access to a vehicle.

• Above-average communication (written, oral, and verbal), organizational, and critical decision-making skills, with the ability to work effectively within a team and independently.

• Level 6 English (CLB) or equivalent.

• Willingness to attend additional company training as required.

• Experience and demonstrated skill in leadership, team-building, and crisis prevention.

What We Offer

• Supportive and collaborative team environment.

• Opportunities for professional growth and training.

• Competitive wage offering $31.50-$35.00/ hour alokng with comprehisive benefits package.

• Creative freedom to make a lasting impact in children's lives.

If you're a strong leader with a passion for early childhood education and trauma-informed care, apply today to join our team at The Homestead and make a meaningful impact!

Initial screening will be held virtually, with in-person interviews to follow. Only those applicants invited to interview will be contacted.