Special Needs Resource Specialist
TNO - The Neighbourhood Organization (TNO) is a well-established community-based social and health service agency providing a wide range of programs and services supporting low-income and newcomer communities across Ontario and sometimes across different provinces through online services and referrals. We are seeking a Special Needs Resource Specialist to join our team for a full-time contract role until April 10, 2027.
The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Studies, Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field, and must be a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE). The successful candidate will hold a valid Vulnerable Sector Check, Standard First Aid and CPR certification, and TB test clearance. They will have 3-5 years of experience working with children and families, including experience conducting developmental observations and screenings, facilitating parent-child programs and workshops, developing Individual Program Plans, and connecting families to community resources and specialized services.
Robust knowledge of child development, family support, early intervention services, and community resources is essential.
Experience working with children with special needs, newcomer families, and low-income, multi-racial, and multi-lingual communities is highly valued. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and technology, and the ability to work collaboratively with families, community partners, and interdisciplinary teams. Fluency in a second language relevant to the community served is considered an asset.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct intake, needs assessments, and family consultations to identify family needs and provide appropriate support.
- Develop Individual Family Support Plans, as required.
- Provide one-on-one support and information to families regarding child development and parenting concerns, and follow up as needed.
- Conduct informal developmental observations and screenings, document findings, and support children and families in achieving developmental and learning goals.
- Provide referrals, service navigation, and assistance with funding applications; liaise with service providers and advocate for children with special needs and their families to access appropriate services, resources, and community supports.
- Develop, plan, and implement programs and activities that respond to the needs of children and families.
- Develop and facilitate workshops, educational sessions, and information sessions for parents, caregivers, staff, and community members.
- Conduct outreach activities, coordinate guest speakers, participate in community networks, and represent the organization at community events, partnership activities, and agency-related functions, including United Way initiatives.
- Research child development, parenting, family support resources, and community services to support program delivery and respond to family needs.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, assessment documentation, attendance records, and program data in agency databases and client management systems.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members and service providers to identify family needs, coordinate services, share information appropriately, and support positive outcomes for children and families.
- Prepare and organize program spaces, materials, and activities, ensuring that program rooms remain welcoming, safe, inclusive, clean, and compliant with health, safety, and hygiene standards.
- Respond to participant inquiries and provide timely follow-up and support as needed.
- Participate in staff meetings,
agency initiatives, professional development opportunities, committees, special projects, and team-building activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support program and organizational goals.
Vaccination Requirement – You must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, subject to any valid medical or religious exemption from vaccination as provided by the Ontario Human Rights Code. Screening – As a condition of employment, the successful applicant must complete a Vulnerable Sector Screening.
Job Type: Full-time contract position until April 10, 2027
Work Location(s): 45 Overlea Blvd, Toronto, ON M4H 1C3 and other TNO locations.
Schedule: Monday to Saturday, between 8:30- to 8:00 p.m., five days per week (35 hours per week)
Vacancy Status: This posting is for an existing vacancy – coverage.
Rate of Pay: $29.00 per hour.
Benefits:
- Mental Wellness Days
- Social activities organized by the organization
- Social activities organized by the organization
Application Process: Please submit your application to
[email protected] with the subject line “Application for Special Needs Resource Specialist” by October 25, 2026. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. TNO is committed to employment equity initiatives. We encourage residents of Thorncliffe Park, Flemingdon Park, and surrounding communities, and people who are racialized, Indigenous, people from the 2SLGBTQI+ community, people with disabilities, and other equity-seeking groups to apply. TNO is an equal opportunity employer.
Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code. Should you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know. We thank all applicants for their interest but only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.
Pay: $29.00 per hour
Licence/Certification
- ECE Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person
📌 Special Needs Resource Specialist (Toronto)
🏢 TNO - The Neighbourhood Organization
📍 Toronto