Program Assistant - School's Out

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description:

Job Profile Summary:

The Program Assistant – School’s Out position assists in creating a holistic environment for the students in the School’s Out program, in accordance with The Salvation Army mission, values and standards.

Responsibilities And Accountabilities:

• Facilitate the development and behaviour of children.
• Use a variety of observation and documentation techniques.
• Facilitate cognitive, language, social, emotional, creative and physical development of children and acceptance of diversity.
• Help to develop, implement and evaluate age-appropriate program.
• Support the holistic development of all children.
• Build meaningful relationships with the children.  Identify and expand upon learning opportunities (teachable moments). Identify and support child’s individual learning and development.  Identify and support diversity, equity and inclusion.
• Meet health, welfare and safety needs.
• Provide first-aid and CPR.
• Review safety related issues.
• Follow safe toileting procedures.
• Identify and report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect.
• Promote a healthy lifestyle and actively supervise children.
• Meet nutritional needs.

• Promote healthy eating and proper food serving techniques. Model and teach proper table manners.
• Guide children’s behaviour - Implement positive behaviour guidance.
• Establish with colleagues an environment to foster positive behaviour in the program.
• Facilitate appropriate language, conflict resolution, empathy, problem-solving skills and coping skills.
• Use and promote active listening skills.
• Protect children from physical and emotional harm.

• Encourages clients/families to participate in programs and services offered by our Resource Centre as well as our Church
• Maintains confidentiality and keeps accurate client files and statistical records
• Assists in the organization, maintenance and general cleanliness of the Resource Centre
• Performs other duties as required

Skills and Capabilities:

• Knowledge and proficiency with MS Office programs and general office equipment
• Current FOODSAFE LEVEL 1 (preferred)
• Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License is an asset
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs
• The ability to maintain confidentiality
• A willingness to adhere to a dress code of modesty, neatness and cleanliness
• Demonstrates an active interest and attitude suitable for working with large groups of children.
• Love for children/youth and family-focused ministries.
• Must have a workable concept of childcare centres.
• Ability to put children at ease and create a warm and friendly environment in which a child can develop fully.
• Understanding of individuals of diverse social and cultural backgrounds.
• Exhibit good listening and interpersonal skills, have strong oral/written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate in kind, peaceful manner.
• Ability to stay calm and patient.

Ability to work with a minimum of supervision.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• This position will work solely out of the Kamloops office, with some local travel for group outings.
• Some evenings may be required.
• Temporary Position: September 2026 – June 2027

• Must have completed high-school.
• Must maintain a current, valid First Aid & C.P.R. Certificate.

• Minimum 6 months related experience working with children, families, and vulnerable population
• Able to provide Criminal Background Check screening and Vulnerable Record Check that is satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required
• Completion of our online Abuse Training and required Health and Safety training

• Knowledge and proficiency with MS Office programs and general office equipment
• Current FOODSAFE LEVEL 1 (preferred)
• Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License is an asset
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs
• The ability to maintain confidentiality
• A willingness to adhere to a dress code of modesty, neatness and cleanliness
• Demonstrates an active interest and attitude suitable for working with large groups of children.
• Love for children/youth and family-focused ministries.
• Must have a workable concept of childcare centres.
• Ability to put children at ease and create a warm and friendly environment in which a child can develop fully.
• Understanding of individuals of diverse social and cultural backgrounds.
• Exhibit good listening and interpersonal skills, have strong oral/written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate in kind, peaceful manner.
• Ability to stay calm and patient.
• Ability to work with a minimum of supervision.

Compensation:

The target hiring range for this position is $18.25 to $22.23 with a maximum of $26.20.

Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email [email protected] if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.