Access Support Worker (2 Opportunities) (Counsellor 2a)

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 Disability Support Program(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

Access Support Workers are responsible for transporting and supporting children, youth, and parents for family access visits, attendance for appointments, and other miscellaneous transportation needs as requested by the Social Workers in our various Child and Family Wellbeing Programs.

This is an exciting and rewarding career opportunity that works collaboratively to positively impact the lives of children, youth, and their families. You will join a dynamic and creative environment that celebrates diversity, promotes continued professional growth, and provides you with the opportunity to utilize your full range of skills, knowledge, and experience.

Primary Accountabilities

You will ensure the safety of children and provide basic childcare and transportation services. You may also provide oversight during contact between children and their immediate and extended families and support networks. You may be required to complete documentation confirming interactions as well as raising any issues that arise, along with other related duties to help ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the Provincial Access and Transportation Program.

Qualifications and Experience

You have completed an approved child & youth care worker diploma from a provincially approved post-secondary institution, or have at least two (2) years of related experience supporting children, youth, and/or families.

Experience in child welfare or other social services, including daycare or youth services, is desirable.

You must have a valid driver's license, have the ability to travel, and access to a reliable vehicle. You will use your personal vehicle, and your vehicle must be properly equipped for the transportation of infants and children.

You must have the ability to communicate in a professional manner using tact and diplomacy when dealing with sensitive situations as you support foster parents, social workers, in-care youth, daycare providers, schools, birth parents, and guardians.

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 diploma or bachelor's degree in a related field (early childhood education (ECE), social sciences, social work, child and youth, social/ human services, disability support services, etc.)

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

Extensive travel is required and necessitates considerable driving time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions. Visits are often scheduled at various times throughout the day, week, and weekends. Sometimes, hours and schedules will change requiring you to be flexible and willing to accommodate client's needs.

Your personal resiliency is essential to meet the physical and emotional demands of this position. You will be immersed in high stress situations and encounter distraught youth and family members.

Additional Information

Two (2) positions are currently available. One (1) permanent opportunity and one(1)TEMPORARY opportunity with an anticipated end date of June 30, 2025. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

The position location is flexible between Kentville or Windsor locations. Your worksite location will be determined at the offer negotiation stage.

What We Offer

• Career Possibilities; you will have access to multiple career paths, career guidance, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Rewarding and versatile work; daily, you will get to see the impact you have in and around your community.
• Engaging workplace; you are respected, supported, and valued. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies and incorporate your feedback to enhance our services.