An Early Childhood Educator (ECE) is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children in a childcare setting. As this is for a new childcare facility, ECEs will play a key role in establishing the center’s culture and implementing Fueling Brains practices. 

Our classrooms are inspired by the Fueling Brains philosophy with a focus on development of executive functions. These innovative spaces are where creativity, imagination, social skills, and children’s interests determine the curriculum. The ECE will create a learning environment that inspires children to think outside of the box and explore and engage with their senses.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program Development & Implementation

• Plan and carry out developmentally appropriate activities and programs tailored to the needs and interests of children, fostering growth in their executive functions
• Optimize the stimulating environment at the Academy to facilitate student growth, exploration, and participation. 
• Monitor and document children’s progress through observations and assessments optimizing the data in the Fueling Brains application for appropriate lesson plans to enhance the teaching / learning process.

Child Supervision & Safety

• Ensure a safe, secure, and healthy environment for children, including adhering to safety standards, monitoring the play areas, and maintaining a clean classroom.
• Supervise children both indoors and outdoors, ensuring their well-being, safety, and proper supervision during all activities

Positive Child Development

• Support children in developing their cognitive flexibility, working memory and inhibitory control through the nine intelligence areas
• Encourage positive behavior and manage challenging behaviors with appropriate strategies.

Parent Communication & Involvement

• Build positive relationships with families by maintaining open communication about their child’s experiences, development, educational success, and any concerns.
• Participate in parent-teacher meetings, daily updates, and other family engagement initiatives to foster collaboration between the center and families.

Team Collaboration 

• Work collaboratively with other Early Childhood Educators, assistants, and staff members to create a positive, cohesive and supportive working environment.
• Share insights, observations, and strategies with colleagues to enhance the quality of care provided.

Facility Start-up

• As part of a new childcare facility, participate in helping to set up the classroom and learning environments, ensuring the space is welcoming, stimulating, and conducive to learning. 
• Assist in developing initial policies and routines, contributing to the overall culture and educational vision of the center.
• Other duties and responsibilities as required.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

Education

• Diploma in Early Childhood Education (ECE) from a recognized institution. 
• Current ECE Certificate (one-year or five-year, issued by the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development)

Experience

• Experience working with children 3-5 years in a childcare or early learning environment (internships or placements may be considered)
• Experience in setting up a new facility or working in start-up environments (preferred but not required).

Key Skills

• Strong knowledge of child development, early learning strategies, and inclusive educational practices. 
• Creativity in planning engaging and effective learning activities.
• Excellent communication skills for interacting with children, colleagues and families. 
• Ability to work as part of a team and foster positive relationships. 
• Strong organizational skills, attention to details, and problem-solving abilities
• First Aid and CPR certification (required). 
• Experience using digital platforms for attendance tracking, lesson planning, or communication with parents is an asset.
• Experience working in culturally diverse environments or with children from various backgrounds is valued. The candidate should understand how to create an inclusive environment where every child feels welcome and supported.

Work Environment Requirements

• Flexibility to work various shifts, including early mornings or late afternoons, depending on the facility’s requirements. 
• Physical Requirements: Ability to engage in active play with children, including lifting small children, sitting on the floor, and participating in outdoor activities. 
• Location: May involve initial training and orientation sessions to familiarize with the new environment prior to the opening

Additional Requirements

• Criminal Record Check: Successful completion of a criminal record check, including a vulnerable sector search.
• First Aid Certification: Valid Emergency Child Care First Aid and CPR or willingness to obtain within the first three months of employment.
• Immunizations: Up-to-date immunizations as required for childcare workers in British Columbia.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to engage in active play and lift up to 40 lbs.