Community Living Facilitator (4 Opportunities) (Program Administration Officer 1-2)

Designation Status

Four (4) positions are available. One (1) opportunity is designated to applicants who identify as Indigenous, African/Black Nova Scotian and other Racialized Persons, or Persons with a Disability. To be considered for the designated position, you must self-identify. 

See the Nova Scotia Government’s Employment Equity Policy for more information, including additional details on the designated groups.

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 Services (ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and the Disability Support Program (DSP).

The Disability Support Program (DSP) is committed to fostering innovative ways to empower individuals with disabilities to pursue their vision of a fulfilling life. We are on a journey to implement international best practices that uphold human rights and choices to enhance the way people engage with their communities. We envision Nova Scotia as a place where people with disabilities can choose the life they want to live, in communities that are welcoming, inclusive, and supportive. A life where individuals can build authentic relationships, explore their interests, and achieve their full potential as valued citizens in their community.

About Our Opportunity

We’re hiring Community Living Facilitators (CLF), an essential role which helps transform lives and supports the Human Rights Remedy, addressing systemic discrimination against persons with disabilities. As part of our commitment to closing all Disability Support Program residential settings over four beds by March 2028, you'll collaborate closely with government partners, service providers, and community stakeholders to create the conditions that enable seamless transitions from institutions to community living, championing inclusivity and human rights every step of the way.

The CLF operates at the forefront of a progressive movement, advocating for and enabling the creation of personalized community supports that foster independence and well-being. This role isn't just about facilitating transitions; it's about reshaping the systems to embrace individual agency and community integration. You'll work autonomously yet collaboratively, leveraging your expertise to bridge the gap between participant needs and partners. By nurturing strong partnerships and innovative solutions, you'll empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives aligned with their beliefs and aspirations.

Moreover, as a CLF, you'll embody a person-directed approach that values the diverse experiences and aspirations of each individual and their support network. You'll adapt communication and support strategies to meet the needs of various stakeholders, ensuring the highest standards of inclusivity and human rights. Your work will not only transform the lives of DSP participants but also enhance community capacity and promote joint working relationships across sectors.

Primary Accountabilities

This role is multifaceted and impactful, focusing on several key accountabilities to support the de-institutionalization and transition of Disability Support Program (DSP) participants into community living settings. You will be a crucial contributor within Regional Closure Teams and Hubs, actively breaking down systemic barriers that hinder the development of innovative community living solutions. Your primary responsibilities include:

• expanding community living options and supports tailored to DSP participant needs.
• collaborating with government partners, municipalities, service providers, and housing developers to create accessible living opportunities that support individuals leaving facilities.
• proposing and facilitating innovative solutions to establish robust support necessary for large-scale de-institutionalization
• working closely with Regional Closure Specialists and Intense Planning and Support Coordinators, to ensure seamless "behind the scenes" coordination essential for successful community transitions
• building strong regional and local connections as well as engaging with community leaders to understand and address the diverse needs of DSP participants transitioning into communities.
• advocating for expanded access to resources such as medical services, mental health support, housing options, day programs, and recreational activities
• fostering a workplace culture that respects and promotes inclusivity.

Qualifications and Experience

A completed related Bachelor's degree in social sciences, disability studies, public administration, or other related field and at least one (1) year of experience in a relevant role supporting individuals with disabilities and/or community development. An equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered.

You must have strong existing connections within the local community, or demonstrate an ability to quickly build relationships and partnerships within the community. A valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation is required. In addition you:

• have experience in coordinating programs or initiatives and an ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously
• are skilled in collecting, analysing, and interpreting data to inform decision-making and program development.
• can prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with DSP participants, families, community leaders, and various stakeholders.
• possess strong advocacy and negotiation skills to promote inclusive community practices and expand access to resources.
• can build and maintain strong relationships, navigate complex systems, and collaborate across sectors to develop innovative community living solutions.
• have a flexible and adaptive approach to problem-solving, with the ability to tailor support strategies to meet individual participant needs and preferences.
• are dedicated to promoting inclusion and passionate about advocating for human rights and fostering community environments that embrace diversity and accessibility.

Assets include:

• Familiarity with Disability Support Program (DSP) policies and procedures
• Familiarity with de-institutionalization processes and community integration strategies. Proven track record of facilitating transitions from institutional settings to community living.
• Additional certifications or training in trauma-informed care, disability rights, or community engagement.

LEADS

The Government of Nova Scotia has adopted the LEADS Leadership Framework. During the interview, candidates will be expected to express how they have demonstrated the key behaviors and capabilities required to effectively lead in a caring and inclusive environment. LEADS Domains include Leads Self, Engage Others, Achieve Results, Develop Coalitions, and Systems Transformation.

Please follow LEADS for more information.

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

We recognize equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Equivalencies include but are not limited to:

• A completed related diploma and three (3) years of experience
• Five (5) years total related experience

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

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

Most of your work is in a central office environment with frequent required travel to site locations across your defined region. You will navigate complex situations. This environment underscores the importance of adaptability and emotional resilience.

Additional Information

Four (4) positions are available:

• (1) in Western Region
• (1) in Northern Region
• (1) in Eastern Region
• (1) in Central Region

Please identify your preferred region in your application. Your worksite location, within the region, will be negotiated at the offer stage. For a list of office locations by region, please click here.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace: our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths
• Department specific flexible working schedules