Location: Halifax Regional Municipality (Evening Hours Required)

Type: Part-time, 13-week term with the possibility of renewal

Department: Economic Inclusion

Reports to: Program Educator – Community Leadership

Empower Autistic Youth to Grow, Lead, and Connect

Are you passionate about building inclusive communities and supporting the growth of Autistic youth? Autism Nova Scotia is seeking a Community Coach to support our Community Leadership (CL) program — an initiative that empowers Autistic youth to develop leadership and employment-readiness skills through group programming and volunteer experiences with local non-profits.

This is a part-time, 13-week term position, with the possibility of renewal.

About the Role

The Community Coach will work closely with the Program Educator to support weekly programming, provide individualized guidance to participants, and help foster a welcoming, supportive learning environment. This role is a hands-on opportunity to make a meaningful impact by guiding Autistic youth as they grow their skills and confidence in real-world settings.

Evening availability (between 4 PM–9 PM) is required to meet programming needs. Occasional day or weekend work and local travel may also be required.

Key Responsibilities

Program Support & Facilitation

• Attend and support weekly leadership and employment-readiness group sessions.
• Assist with activity delivery and help prepare session materials.
• Support the Program Educator with room setup and accessibility considerations.
• Foster participant engagement and model positive peer interactions.

Participant Support & Engagement

• Build trusting relationships with participants and peer volunteers.
• Offer individualized guidance to support goal achievement and personal growth.
• Encourage teamwork, respect, and shared learning within the group.
• Support participants during volunteer placements in the community.
• Provide consistent, empathetic support tailored to participant needs.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the Program Educator to monitor participant progress and overall program success.
• Communicate regularly to flag concerns and ensure a safe, positive experience for all.
• Attend team meetings as needed to contribute updates and insights.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• 1+ years of experience working with youth and individuals on the autism spectrum.
• Knowledge of career exploration, postsecondary options, and inclusive community involvement.

Skills & Competencies

• Commitment to inclusion and neurodiversity-affirming practices.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Reliable, organized, and adaptable in dynamic environments.
• Ability to take initiative and work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Problem-solving mindset, empathy, and patience.

Certifications & Requirements

• Clear Criminal Record Check (including Vulnerable Sector).
• Valid Child Abuse Registry Check.
• Valid Nova Scotia Driver’s License and reliable vehicle.
• Comfortable driving in a variety of road, weather, and community settings.

Working Conditions

• Combination of in-office, remote, and community-based work.
• Evening work required (4 PM–9 PM), with occasional day or weekend hours.
• Local travel within HRM for volunteer placements and outreach.
• Programs delivered in various community settings.

You Belong Here

Autism Nova Scotia is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace. We recognize and value the contributions of individuals with lived experience and strongly encourage applications from those who identify as Autistic, neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+, Black, Indigenous, racialized, immigrants, and/or persons with disabilities.

If you require accommodations during the recruitment or interview process, please let us know — we are happy to work with you to ensure an equitable experience.

Closing Date: Applications are encouraged by Friday, July 18th, 2025.