Operator Relations Specialist
Halton Region is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value, welcome and respect the unique perspectives and contributions of all individuals. We encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples (First Nation, Métis, Inuit), Black and racialized persons, persons with disabilities, women, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Accommodations are available at any point upon request for candidates participating in the selection process.
You make a positive difference in people’s lives because you provide high quality customer centered services. You operate within a highly ethical environment and will be accountable for going the extra mile, listening to your customers, creatively meeting needs and always being respectful to those you serve. As a result, you will be part of a qualified and strategic team recognized widely for caring, excellence, integrity, inclusiveness and flexibility.
Posting ID: 4425
Department: Social & Community Services
Division: Children's Services
Pay Range: $94,693 - $118,367
Job Type: Permanent
Hours of Work: 35 hours per week
Work Location: Halton Regional Center, 1151 Bronte Road, Oakville
Employee Group: OCT
Posting Date: July 28, 2025
Application Deadline: August 8 2025
Please be advised that the results of this competition may be used to fill subsequent vacancies of the same position within the next 18 months.
If you’re enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with Halton Region but don’t meet every qualification listed, we still encourage you to apply! This position may be eligible for an underfill opportunity for candidates who do not meet every qualification. We’re always on the lookout for exceptional talent to join our team!
Job Summary
The Operator Relations Specialist plays a key role in supporting licensed child care and early learning programs that are experiencing operational challenges. This position helps ensure children have access to quality care and that operators have the support they need to be successful.
Working closely with child care operators, the Specialist helps build capacity with practices related to leadership, workforce, operations, quality of care, and financial viability. The role also coordinates supports; monitors progress and recommends actions when needed.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Build trusting, transparent relationships with child care operators.
- Respond to operator concerns and clarify responsibilities under CWELCC and the Child Care Service System Management Agreement (CCSMA).
- Support operators in understanding government processes, reporting requirements, and available resources.
- Identify and assess organizational issues such as leadership changes, financial instability, or quality concerns.
- Conduct organizational reviews and collaborate with the operator and internal teams to develop improvement strategies.
- Monitor action plans and progress on operator deliverables.
- Provide regular feedback to support successful outcomes.
- Facilitate collaborative meetings with subject matter experts across departments.
- Prepare documentation, status updates, and final reports for operators and management.
- Recommend escalation steps, including legal or executive involvement, when progress is insufficient.
- Coordinate escalation process, timelines, and compliance expectations.
- Support communication strategies, including public messaging and legal briefings.
- Maintain detailed records and case notes to inform decisions and escalation.
- Deliver training and orientation to child care owners, operators, and Boards of Directors.
- Ensure child care spaces are preserved and risks to the Halton child care system are minimized.
Skills & Qualifications
- Undergraduate degree in Human Resources, Not-for-Profit Management, Organizational Development, or a related field.
- Equivalent combination of education and experience aligned to the role will be considered.
- 3-5 (three-five) years experience in a leadership role as a child care operator.
Specialized Knowledge in:
- Quality Early Learning and Child Care Foundations
- Workforce Management and Development
- Financial Management
- Organizational Development
- Board Governance
- CWELCC Policy
- Child Care and Early Years Act
- Employment Standards Act
- Project Management
- Change Management
- Risk Management and Compliance
Working/ Employment Conditions
Woking Conditions:
- Travel is required between locations within Halton Region
- Must provide own transportation
Employment Conditions:
- Offer of employment is conditional upon providing a current (within the past 6 months), original, and acceptable Criminal Records Check
- Must hold a valid driver’s license
Important information about your application:
- In accordance with requirements in Ontario Regulation 191/11 – Integrated Accessibility Standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code, Halton Region will accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please inform the Talent Acquisition representative of the nature of the accommodation(s) you require.
- Please submit your application online. We will accommodate individual needs for applicants with disabilities and others who are not able to apply online. If you experience any issues with submitting your application, please contact HR Access at 905-825-6000 extension 7700.
- Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on the deadline date specified on the posting.
- We encourage applications from all qualified individuals; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.
- Personal information collected through the job application process will only be used for the purpose of determining qualifications for employment.
- If selected for an interview, you will be contacted by email and/or phone. Please ensure the contact information provided on your resume is up to date and that you check your email and voicemail regularly.
Halton Region serves more than 650,000 residents throughout Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville. We are committed to delivering high quality programs and services that make Halton a great place to live and work. We engage great people who contribute to meaningful work that makes a positive difference in our community. At Halton, you are encouraged to grow and succeed in your career and are recognized for your accomplishments and contributions. As an employee, you will be part of a progressive, service focused and award winning employer with a diverse and inclusive work environment.
