Job Posting: Heritage Programming Assistant (Young Canada Works)

The Vancouver Japanese Language School and Japanese Hall has been located in Vancouver’s historical downtown eastside since 1906. The school, which is a not-for-profit organization as well as a charity, offers children and adults opportunities to learn Japanese language and experience a variety of cultural activities.

About the Role
The Heritage Programming Assistant will help build and deliver core heritage initiatives, including archival digitization, tour preparation, and interpretive content development. This role supports community engagement and historical understanding through hands-on work with unique archival materials and public-facing programming.

Key Responsibilities

• Scan and digitize archival materials; apply consistent file naming conventions and cataloguing standards.
• Transcribe and organize digitized files to ensure searchability and accessibility to the Interpretive Centre team.
• Review existing digitization repositories and standardize metadata.
• Collaborate with staff and the website manager to enable online access to selected materials.
• Research and support translation processes for digitized and exhibit materials; assist in producing QR code-linked content.
• Update and prepare materials for the Historic Powell Street Walking Tour and Interpretive Centre tour plan.
• Accompany, support, and eventually help lead tours (as appropriate).
• Assist with digital and community outreach to promote heritage programs.
• Communicate and coordinate with external entities who share interest in archival materials and local history.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Organizational skills and attention to detail for digitization and cataloguing tasks;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with online communication tools;
• Basic knowledge of social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook) and graphic design tools such as Canva or similar;
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting;
• Interest in cultural heritage, community engagement, and event coordination.

Assets:

• Experience or education with archives or libraries (or other institutions requiring systematic organization of data);
• Japanese language skills (reading, writing, or speaking);
• Experience with WordPress or website content management systems;
• Previous experience in marketing, communications, or heritage programming.

If you are a youth with a disability, Indigenous, a member of a visible minority, or new Canadian, we encourage you to apply for the position if you think you would be right for the position, even if you do not meet all the criteria.  

• Open date: April 15, 2026
• Close date: open until filled
• Start date: May 8, 2026 (negotiable)
• Term: 16 weeks
• Wage: $22/hour, 35 hours/week

YCW Eligibility
Candidates must meet Young Canada Works (YCW) in Heritage Organizations eligibility, including:

• Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee status (non-Canadians holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent resident status are not eligible);
• Legally entitled to work in Canada (valid SIN);
• Between 16 and 30 years of age inclusively at the start of employment;
• A student (high school, college, CEGEP, or university).

Priority may be given to students who have not previously participated in YCW-HO.

How to Apply
Please send a CV and cover letter to admin@vjls-jh.com with the subject line: “VJLS-JH Heritage Programming Assistant – YCW”
Questions may be directed to Yoshi Sugiyama, General Manager, at the same email address.

About the Area
Located in Vancouver’s historic Downtown Eastside, the site is near excellent public transit and cultural landmarks. Nearby attractions include the Powell Street area (historic Japantown), galleries, festivals, waterfront parks, and community heritage organizations—offering a rich environment for learning and engagement.