Department: Opportunities and Social Development
Location: Halifax, Dartmouth, and Sackville
Type of Employment: Permanent, Term, Temporary and Casual
Union Status: Exclusion - Non Union - NSPG
Closing Date: 05-Feb-26 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)

ABOUT US

At the Department of Opportunities and Social Development (OSD), 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.

PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Daily, you actively work to engage people and communities to build resilience, address challenges and trauma, and create change. Every day is different, and you will encounter unique challenges with responsibilities ranging from:

• Assessing child safety and wellbeing concerns and working with families and communities to address them
• Collaborating with and supporting individuals and families
• Planning and developing case plans with families
• Working closely with the community and advocating for connections to community resources
• Participating in risk assessments, court testimonies, and evaluations
• Planning with and supervising children in care of the Minister

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

A completed Master of Social Work, or a Bachelor of Social work with at least two (2) years of related experience, along with a driver’s license are required. You must be eligible for registration with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW). If you are a current social work student with anticipated graduation this year, with at least two (2) years of related experience, we encourage you to apply!

You are:

• A strong team player
• Empowered to drive positive change
• Compassionate, reliable, and resourceful

You possess a deep understanding of child development, family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and community resources. You are well-versed in effective intervention strategies. Your excellent problem-solving skills, combined with creative thinking, enhance the support provided to children and families, contributing to their overall well-being and growth.
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.

• Assessing child safety and wellbeing concerns and working with families and communities to address them
• Collaborating with and supporting individuals and families
• Planning and developing case plans with families
• Working closely with the community and advocating for connections to community resources
• Participating in risk assessments, court testimonies, and evaluations
• Planning with and supervising children in care of the Ministe