Job Description

* Please Note: This position is not with the County of Lambton. It is with our Community Partner, Sarnia Lambton Economic Partnership. Application instructions are included in the posting.*

Program Coordinator - Contract Position

Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm (evenings and weekends may be required)

In-office position Sarnia, ON

Contract position until March 30, 2029

Salary information:

$35.00 – $37.00/hour (35 hours per week)

About us

Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) is the lead economic development agency for Lambton County, dedicated to driving local economic growth. Our core goals are to attract new investment, build a strong and diverse workforce, and support businesses in staying and expanding within our region.

At SLEP, we collaborate with business leaders, educational institutions, entrepreneurs, industries, accelerators, and municipal governments—because strong partnerships are key to fostering a thriving and welcoming community.

The Program Coordinator will lead and execute a multi-year, federally funded, newcomer-focused program. Specifically, the Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub is an initiative, launched in 2025, to support Permanent Residents settle, establish & thrive in Canada. The Newcomer Hub provides career support, mentorship, soft skill development, and entrepreneurial guidance tailored to newcomers in the Sarnia-Lambton region. The coordinator will be accountable to develop and execute a clear strategic plan aimed to meet specific client targets and goals. This role will also assist local employers in connecting with newcomer job seekers, fostering workforce development in Lambton County.

This role is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting newcomers in their career journeys while strengthening Lambton County’s workforce and entrepreneurial landscape.

You will also benefit from many advantages, such as:

• Full-time hours, with an optional regular day off compressed work week
• Optional OMERS (Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System) Pension plan
• Working with an established, knowledgeable team

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Development & Coordination: Plan, implement, and manage initiatives that provide employment readiness training, entrepreneurship support, and networking opportunities for newcomers.
• Financial Accountability: Manage the program budget, track expenses, and ensure financial resources are allocated effectively to support program goals.
• Employer Engagement: Work closely with local businesses to identify workforce needs, facilitate connections with newcomer job seekers, and provide resources on inclusive hiring practices.
• Outreach & Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, industry leaders, and educational institutions to enhance program impact and accessibility.
• Workshop & Event Planning: Organize training sessions and networking events to support both newcomers and employers.
• Marketing & Promotion: Develop and implement a marketing strategy to promote the program, including social media outreach, digital content, and community engagement initiatives.
• Support Services & Referrals: Connect newcomers with relevant internal and external services, including job search assistance, business development programs, and language training resources.
• Data Tracking & Reporting: Monitor program success by collecting and analyzing data on employment outcomes, participant engagement, and employer partnerships.
• Teamwork: Collaborate and provide support to Program Assistant role.

Skills we are looking for:

• Experience in program coordination, workforce development, community engagement, or a related field.
• Proven ability to create and execute a strategic plan to meet program goals and targets
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting and expense tracking.
• Strong understanding of newcomer employment challenges and entrepreneurship pathways.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with employers, job seekers, and community partners.
• Experience in marketing, communications, or outreach strategies to promote programs effectively.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to influence business leaders, stakeholders, and community partners.
• Effective facilitation, marketing, and presentation skills for diverse groups.
• Knowledge and experience in working with government-funded programs.
• Event coordination and management experience

Qualifications

• A degree/diploma in Human Resources, Economic Development, Business, or a related field, OR a combination of education and experience in a relevant discipline working with rural and urban businesses.
• 5 years of experience in a related position.

Application Instructions

• Submit a resume AND cover letter outlining relevant experience and interest to careers@sarnialambton.on.ca by September 7, 2026.

We thank all applicants for their interest and wish to advise that only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

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