Refugee Claimant Support Services Employment Specialist

at  Archway Community Services

JOB SUMMARY

The purpose of BC Services and Assistance for Humanitarian and Vulnerable Newcomers (BC Safe Haven) is to support the social and economic integration of refugee claimants who are not eligible to receive services under federal settlement programs. Services are intended to wrap around refugee claimants in a way that support them in all aspects of their initial settlement needs, including seeking authorization to work, and finding employment opportunities.
The various client groups served by BC Safe Haven each face unique barriers and challenges to integration that necessitate employment supports. The Employment Specialist will assist clients to access labour market information and supports. Further, the Employment Specialist will be responsible for marketing and promoting the program to prospective employers in order to seek job opportunities for program clients. Program delivery will include group and one-on-one sessions for clients using a variety of methods and initiatives including pre-employment counselling and job coaching.

Archway’s Employment Specialist with the BC Safe Haven – Refugee Claimant Support Services Program contributes by:

• Providing employment services to refugee claimants in Abbotsford and Chilliwack including employment orientations, labour market information, and connections to local employers.
• Delivering information sessions and workshops on topics such as the local job market, resume writing, workplace safety, and other topics relevant to the refugee claimants’ employment needs.
• Offering customized employment counselling services, in person or remote, relevant to the individual’s education and work experience, to provide employment information and support in the job search, career planning goals, resume building, and interview skills.
• Facilitating the matching of professional mentors with clients to assist in building connections and understanding of the local job market and industries of client interest.
• Organizing on-site First Aid and Food Safe courses for clients and assisting them in obtaining certification in Occupational First Aid and Food Safe.
• Liaising with community service providers and other professionals to promote awareness of the program at community meetings, events, and job fairs across Fraser Valley region.
• Attending community-based activities for networking purposes, promoting the program, and building relationships with prospective employers.
• Responsible and accountable for database management to track clients’ program outcomes and ensuring required documentation is completed for all clients.
• Submitting regular program statistical reports and communicating with the program supervisor about client trends and needs.

This position is a great fit for someone who is knowledgeable of the barriers facing refugee claimants, has an understanding and passion for working with individuals who have been impacted by trauma, has great interpersonal skills, and is knowledgeable of community resources in the Abbotsford and Chilliwack areas.