We want every candidate to have a fair, respectful and transparent hiring experience. Our process is designed to help us understand your skills, experience and potential, while also giving you a better sense of the role and what it means to work at YMCA Calgary.

From interviews to references and pre-employment requirements, each step of the process helps us ensure we are hiring people who are well-suited to the role and committed to supporting children, families and communities in a safe and welcoming environment.

Role Specific Certifications

When Standard First Aid and CPR-C is part of the job requirement, to meet this condition of employment, candidates are required to have or obtain a Standard First Aid and CPR-C certification that is recognized and approved by *Alberta OHS.

It is strongly recommended that candidates obtain certification through any one of the five approved agencies:

• Canadian Red Cross (YMCA Calgary provides a Red Cross Certification)
• Heart and Stroke Foundation,
• Canadian Ski Patrol,
• St John’s Ambulance, and
• Lifesaving Society

Note: This is an expense that the applicant incurs.

*First Aid Calgary and St Mark James Training are independently operated and whilst only some of their courses are approved by Alberta OHS, the standards are different from the Canadian Red Cross. Staff and volunteers who hold/obtain a certification through these organizations are unable to attend any YMCA recertification course offerings.
 

Interviews

We use a consistent interview process to help create a fair experience for all candidates. This means candidates interviewing for the same position are asked the same core questions at each stage of the process.

During the interview, we may ask you to share examples from your past experience and talk about the skills and strengths you would bring to the role. Depending on the position, you may also be asked to complete a test or assignment as part of the assessment process, and some roles may include a second-round interview.

For all positions, we also consider each candidate’s suitability for working with children and vulnerable people.

References

Before extending an offer to a candidate, we complete reference checks. In most cases, this includes three references from current or former employers.

If you are a student or have limited work experience, we welcome references from teachers or other individuals in positions of trust.

We also understand that reference requirements can sometimes create barriers, especially for those who are early in their careers. That is why we accept a broader range of references, including volunteer, committee and school references in addition to employment references.

Accommodation

We are committed to reducing barriers to employment and creating a hiring process that is inclusive and accessible.

If you need accommodation at any stage of the interview process, please let us know. We are happy to work with you to understand your needs and support your participation.

Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector and Job Offer

Due to the nature of our business, the YMCA requires that all employees and volunteers provide a cleared Police Information Check including Vulnerable Sector Search prior to beginning providing services, dated within twelve (12) months of commencement date of employment.

This check can be completed by the Calgary Police Service for any employees or volunteers living within the City of Calgary, or by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for anyone living outside of the City of Calgary limits. All associated costs will be covered by YMCA.

RCMP and Calgary Police Service are now prohibited from conducting Vulnerable Sector Checks for applicants under the age of 18. Applicants under the age of 18 and/or unable to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Check, are require to provide a minimum of two (2) additional references. This must be immediate family members (parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.).