Receptionist (Relief)
The Role and Opportunity
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) – Toronto Branch is seeking a Relief Receptionist/Administrative Assistant to support both of our West and East Main Offices. Reception operates Monday to Friday. This relief position will provide coverage during the absence of the full-time Receptionists; therefore, flexibility and availability to pick up shifts as needed is required.
The successful candidate will have knowledge of general office procedures, strong word processing and data entry skills, and the ability to interact effectively and professionally with the public. Given the nature of our work, prior experience or familiarity with a healthcare or community mental health setting is required. This position is based at 700 Lawrence Avenue West, Suite 480 and 1200 Markham Road, Suite 500.
Hourly Rate: $26.59
About CMHA TorontoCMHA Toronto is the city’s leading community mental health agency. We provide accessible, quality care for Toronto residents through programs, research and advocacy that create belonging and hope. At CMHA Toronto, we take a client-first, recovery-oriented approach to supporting people and their families when they experience mental health challenges or live with mental illness. By integrating health and social care, we provide services that aid in long-term wellness including housing, employment, community connections and so much more. Our goal? Help everyone thrive in the community.
Responsibilities
Reception & Customer ServiceGreet all visitors professionally and respectfully, using trauma-informed and culturally humble languageEnsure the reception area is clean, organized, and calming, reflecting CMHA’s high standards.Maintain signage and materials that are accessible, multilingual, and inclusive. Respond to walk-ins and phone/email inquiries promptly and consistently.Use sound judgment to triage calls, visitors, and crisis situations; ensure appropriate follow-up or staff involvement.Provide a welcoming and accessible space, with appropriate accommodations for diverse mobility, sensory, or privacy needs.Manage private space availability for sensitive conversations.
Communication & Office SupportAnswer and route incoming telephone calls using a multi-line phone system; ensure messages are returned promptly.Check the reception email daily and ensure consistent, timely responses.Track appointments, meetings, and visitor logs accurately.Process and distribute incoming/outgoing mail, couriered items, and faxes. Provide word processing, data entry, and general administrative support, including assistance to accounting (e.g., cheque collection, donations).Order and monitor office supplies; check and maintain equipment (e.g., phones, coffee machine, AED, First Aid Kits).Follow up appropriately on housing cheque drop-offs and donation collections.Maintain security protocols and support visitor screening and safety procedures.Coordination & Team IntegrationCommunicate service or office updates and visitor arrivals clearly to staff.Ensure meeting rooms and reception equipment are in good working order.Stay informed of operational updates and participate in feedback loops with leadership.Contribute to a workplace culture of inclusion, respect, and shared responsibility. Attend training as needed on systems (e.g., voicemail, email, calendar tools) and accessibility.Ensure SOPs for reception are followed and kept up to date.Experience & Education Required Minimum 1 to 2 years experience in reception, front desk, or administrative support.Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).Comfortable with phone and voicemail systems (experience with Meridian systems is an asset).Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; calm and professional demeanor under pressure.Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage multiple demands with composure.Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds; knowledge of trauma-informed and culturally safe practices.Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to urgent situations, including distressed clients.Knowledge of or experience in a health, social services, or mental health setting is required. Personal or family experience with mental health or substance use is considered a strong asset.
Why Choose CMHA Toronto? If you care about mental illness and mental health and you have the right skills, then CMHA Toronto may be the place for you. We have a positive and fair workplace culture, where staff are provided with opportunities for learning and advancement. Our benefits include:Health Care of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP), a predictable, secure monthly income upon retirementWork-life balance and flexibility – to ensure you have time for the things that matter to youWork with like-minded, passionate individuals and make an impact on mental health service deliveryBuild genuine and authentic connections, with colleagues and clients, with the goal of making a difference CMHA Toronto is an award-winning workplace committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, empathy, and accountability. Our staff value the flexibility in work schedules, the emphasis on work-life balance, and the organization's commitment to continuous learning through training and development opportunities. Many employees highlight the strong sense of support that make CMHA Toronto feel like more than just a workplace—it feels like a community.
As an equity-informed employer, CMHA Toronto reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We encourage applications from equity-deserving candidates, including Black, Indigenous, and racialized individuals, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and women. We recognize and honour the intersectionality of equity-based identities. Personal experience with mental health challenges, whether firsthand or through a loved one, is considered an asset. If you are contacted regarding a job opportunity, please inform us before the interview if you require an accommodation. To be eligible for this role candidates will be required to adhere to our COVID-19 policy and provide proof of vaccination.
Important Disclosure: We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants at any stage of the hiring process. This posting is for an existing vacancy. CMHA Toronto thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
