Children & Family Support Worker (Counsellor 2AB)

About Us

At the Department of Community Services (DCS), we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support (ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support (DSP).

Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure. We work collaboratively across the province with a strong dedicated network of supports and staff, to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all.

About Our Opportunity

Are you looking for an opportunity where you will have profound and positive impacts on the lives of children and families? Are you looking for an environment where you can establish positive connections and build everlasting relationships within your community? Do you want to work in an environment where you have access to continued professional and personal growth and learning?

Embark on a rewarding career as a Child and Family Support Worker.

The Child and Family Support Worker provides support and assistance to the Child Welfare Social Workers who are working with children, youth and families connected to the Department in Child Welfare. Daily, you will have an active role in working with children, youth and families to build resilience and inspire change.

Primary Accountabilities

Working alongside the Social Worker, you will have a substantial impact on the lives of children and families and are an integral part of the Child Welfare team. A few of your key responsibilities include:

• Assisting Social Workers with documentation (cultural connection tools, geno grams, Alternative Family Care applications)
• Accompanying and assisting Social Workers with home visits
• Entering Case Plans, Access Plans, Plans of Care in departments computer case management systems (ICM/ CCM)
• Aiding the Social Workers in making collateral contacts
• Making referrals recommended by the Social Worker to outside agencies, services and organizations

Qualifications and Experience

You have completed a Child & Youth Care Worker diploma from a provincially approved post-secondary institution. An undergraduate degree in Social Sciences is considered an asset.

You are understanding of child development, family dynamics and community resources. You are knowledgeable in in the physical, psychological, and emotional needs of children and youth in a family setting as well as in care. Key qualities of yours include:

• Working collaboratively in a team environment to strengthen and improve the support provided to children and families
• Developing and working towards the objects of case plans
• Compassion, reliance, and resourcefulness
• Effective communication skills (oral & written) and the ability to facilitate groups
• Knowledge of various software packages, such as Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)

Experience with the department case management systems (ICM/CCM), or previous Child Welfare experience are considered assets.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies, using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

This is an excellent career opportunity for many, and we do consider an equivalent combination of training, education, and experience. Related equivalencies may include, but are not limited to:

• A related bachelor’s in social science (such as Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, or Community Studies)
• A completed diploma in Disability Supports or Social Services

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Working Conditions

Some of your work involves accompanying the Social Worker and meeting with clients in their homes. This necessitates considerable driving time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions.

While present in the office, your time is spent a comfortable office environment.

Your personal resiliency is essential to meet the physical and emotional demands of this position. You will be immersed in high stress and crisis situations, with plenty of support and resources accessible to you. You must be able to work under pressure and be personally and professionally committed to working with culturally diverse individuals in an inclusive manner.

Additional Information

A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle is required.

This is a Term employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of March 31, 2025. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Flexible working arrangements including modified work weeks.
• Career possibilities, guidance and coaching, and ongoing training.
• Rewarding and versatile work where you will see the immediate impacts you make, in and around your communities.

Based on the employment status, we also offer a wide range of benefits such as:

• Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP)
• Three (3) weeks vacation to start, and annual pay progression
• Health, Dental, and Life Insurance
• Pension
• General Illness (Short and Long Term)

Click here to learn more about our various benefits offerings and eligibility criteria.