Department: Opportunities and Social Development
Location: DARTMOUTH
Type of Employment: Relief
Union Status: Exclusion - Non Union - NSPG
Closing Date: 22-Aug-25 (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

You professionally and therapeutically respond to children through the development and implementation of:

• life skills and psychoeducational youth programming that meet individual needs
• individualized treatment plans
• recreation and leisure opportunities
• Plan and maintain an environment that protects the health, security and well-being of children
• Organising and supervising community activities such as sports and recreation

You will provide appropriate interventions in response to crisis situations as well as support and accompany the children in the community. You will also support and coordinate orientation programs for children, families, and guardians.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

You have completed a bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences (such as Social Worker, Psychology, Counselling, Sociology etc.) or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Notice to Pending Graduates: If you anticipate graduation from your program within the next few months of this posting, you are encouraged to apply.
You demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of short-term crisis stabilization programs and effective youth care intervention. You demonstrate knowledge of human behaviour, stages of development of youth and children, the dynamics of group care, along with trauma informed care. You are inclusive, and demonstrate an appreciation and understanding of the varied lived experiences of Nova Scotia’s diverse demographics.

Key qualities of yours include:

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to prevent and resolve conflicts effectively using good counselling
• Excellent Report writing and effective communication
• Quick decision-making skills in high-stress situations
• Discretion with confidential matters
• Knowledge of various software packages, such as Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint).

Though not necessary, any experience with case management systems would be considered an asset. Previous experience with child welfare, early childhood development, crisis services, shelters, and supporting persons with disabilities and substance dependency 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.

Please refer the Job description for details