Environmental Education&Community Engagement Student, Kitchener

Environmental Education&Community Engagement Student Location:

Waterloo Region

Work Hours:

37.5 hours per week

Employment Type:

Full Time - Contract

Number of Vacancies:

1

Anticipated Start Date:

June 29, 2026

Contract End Date:

August 21, 2026

Deadline to Apply:

June 5, 2026

Guaranteed Starting Hourly Wage:

$18.00

The Environmental Education&Community Engagement Student supports the work of the Speciality Group Facilitator within Immigrant Services by assisting with the planning, development, and delivery of environmental education and community‑based group programming for newcomers. Under the guidance of the Group Facilitator, the student helps design inclusive workshops, community events, and outreach activities that promote environmental awareness, sustainability, and climate preparedness, while strengthening newcomer settlement, language practice, and community connections.

What you will do

Increase a newcomer’s understanding of Canadian society

Assist the Group Facilitator in planning and delivering group‑based environmental education workshops for newcomers

Support workshops on topics such as local sustainability initiatives, preparing for extreme climate events (e.g., flooding and heat), and proper waste management

Help adapt content to suit diverse age groups, language levels, and cultural backgrounds

Support the coordination of group activities and community events aligned with Immigrant Services programming

Assist with creative initiatives such as Recycled Art projects and Poster Design Competitions that encourage engagement and informal language practice

Help organize community showcases that promote environmental awareness and celebrate cultural diversity

Assist with outreach strategies to increase participation in group programs

Support promotional efforts through social media, newsletters, and community networks in collaboration with the Group Facilitator

Support attendance tracking, scheduling, and preparation of program materials

Assist with collecting participant feedback and basic evaluation of group activities

Maintain organized records related to workshops and community events

Work closely with the Group Facilitator, Immigrant Services staff, volunteers, and community partners

Assist in connecting newcomers to community resources, networks, and group activities that support settlement and integration

Attend workshops, trainings, conferences and staff meetings as required

Assume other duties as assigned

What you will bring

Current student or recent graduate in environmental studies, sustainability, education, community development, or a related field

Interest in environmental protection, sustainability, and newcomer settlement services

Ability to work respectfully with culturally diverse populations

Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills

Computer proficiency (Word, basic Excel, digital tools, and social media)

Experience supporting workshops, group programs, or community events

Multilingual abilities or experience working with newcomers

Knowledge of climate adaptation, recycling, or sustainability practices

Adaptability when working with diverse age groups, language levels, and cultural backgrounds

Strong collaboration and cross‑cultural teamwork skills

Clear written and verbal communication

Creativity and innovative thinking in program development

Digital skills for outreach, surveys, and content creation

Problem‑solving and flexibility in dynamic community settings

Typical office working environment

The position requires sitting in one work area much of the time.

The position requires normal levels of seeing and hearing and may require increased use of senses on a periodic basis (e.g. concentration) but not continuously or for long periods of time.

The position requires the normal dexterity required to do either manual or computerized record keeping.

The environment is generally comfortable with exposure to normal levels of elements such as dust with minor fluctuations in heating/ventilating.

Some exposure to disagreeable conditions.

Minimal risk of injury to worker.

Minimal travel requirements– visit sites, meetings

What you will gain You will join a dynamic team and an organization that has massive impact across our community. Your work will have impact and the community we all call home will be a little better every day because of you. You will also be eligible for a free YMCA membership, training&development opportunities, employee referral bonus, and the employee assistance program.

This role requires regular travel across the region, which may not always be easily accessible through public transit. The employee must be able to arrange their own transportation to these sites. A valid G driver’s license and full‑time vehicle access are strongly recommended.

All employees must meet specific requirements, including obtaining a clear Police Vulnerable Sector Check and providing three professional references.

The YMCA of Three Rivers embraces diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace, welcoming applications from all qualified persons. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, accommodation will be provided at any point throughout the hiring process, provided the candidate makes their accommodation need known to the YMCA of Three Rivers.

The YMCA of Three Rivers complies with the Employment Standards Act, Pay Equity Legislation and privacy laws. We are committed to protecting personal information by following responsible information handling practices.

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