Bilingual Employment Navigator

YMCA of the National Capital Region • Ottawa, ON

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of the National Capital Region is seeking a dedicated, frontline Francophone resource for the Navigating to Employment initiative. This role is designed to actively connect Francophone job seekers in minority settings to relevant employment, training, and community supports. The Employment Navigator will provide clients with accurate information and appropriate referrals on matters related to employment, trades, immigration, settlement, and community resources on a drop-in basis. This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of excellence, compassion, dignity, accountability and inclusion. The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities. Whether you are starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals.

Requirements

• Post-secondary education or equivalent in a related field
• Fluent in English and French, oral and written
• Minimum 2 years of experience in employment services, community outreach, or client navigation.
• Strong understanding of Francophone communities in Ontario, particularly in minority settings
• Strong computer skills including MS Office suite, online research, data entry, social media
• Excellent organizational skills and detail-oriented
• Strong customer service skills
• Superior problem-solving skills and demonstrated good judgment
• Proven sensitivity in working with the needs of immigrants from diverse cultural backgrounds
• Ability to assess the information needs of clients served
• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required.
• Annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Nice To Haves

• Other languages are an asset

Responsibilities

• Provide clients with accurate information and appropriate referrals on matters related to employment, trades, immigration, settlement, and community resources on a drop-in basis.
• Perform duties of needs assessment and orientation; determining the needs of Newcomers and referring them to internal and/or external programs to best assist them.
• Perform reception duties; answering phones and emails, triaging and directing clients to appropriate services/people.
• Perform administrative and data entry duties.
• Actively connect Francophone job seekers in minority settings to relevant employment, training, and community supports.
• Ensure all services reflect the linguistic and cultural realities of Ontario’s Francophone communities, acting as a connector and facilitator rather than a case manager.
• Regularly providing individualized support to clients facing significant barriers to employment or integration.
• Designing and delivering interactive workshops tailored to diverse client needs, requiring real-time analysis of group dynamics, adaptation of materials, and effective communication strategies.
• Providing direct support to clients experiencing complex barriers (e.g., housing, employment, or mental health).
• Delivering personalized, culturally relevant navigation services, including needs assessments, service orientation, and individualized employment guidance.
• Building and maintaining relationships with employers, community organizations, and service partners.
• Supporting clients with job search, career planning, access to training, and labour market integration.
• Participating in professional development, provincial training, and peer learning sessions organized by BORÉAL SSM.

Benefits

• Free YMCA gym membership
• Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps)
• Access to our YMCA Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) including free, immediate, confidential assistance and counselling for you and your family members for mental and physical health, and financial advice, among other 12 suites of services
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Long-term Disability and Life Insurance
• Access to our Canadian YMCA Retirement Fund pension plan
• Up to 25 vacation days per year including two float days, and one birthday vacation
• Maternity leave benefits for up to 18 months

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree