Settlement Counsellor

Catholic Social Services is currently seeking a contract full-time 40 hours per week, Settlement Counsellor in EDMONTON to join our Immigration and Settlement Services team. Providing excellent client-centered care, you are confident, thoughtful, and motivated to achieve success when supporting others in your community Contract until March 31, 2027.

Job application closing date: November 23, 2026.

Job Overview:

The Settlement Counsellor for the Resettlement Assistant Program plays a vital role in the initial stages of the resettlement of the Government-Assisted Refugees. This role involves a broad spectrum of responsibilities with a significant focus on arrival (welcoming newcomers at the airport - flexible schedule(after-hours arrivals)) and housing support alongside other essential RAP settlement services. These counsellors will place a particular emphasis on arrivals and housing.

Key responsibilities:

• Greet clients at the Reception House upon arrival.
• Provide a respectful, and culturally sensitive welcome to make them feel at ease.
• Familiarize newcomers with the accommodation facilities and services available.
• Conduct initial orientation to inform newcomers about life in Canada, covering topics like life-skills, rights and responsibilities.
• Assessing and prioritizing clients' needs, developing service plans.
• Identifying barriers to learning and providing relevant information.
• Providing translation/interpretation services and support with documentation.
• Assisting clients in navigating mainstream systems and community resources, enhancing their self-sufficiency.
• Drive clients to various essential appointments, including medical visits and searches for permanent housing. This involves transporting clients, ensuring punctuality, and providing support during these appointments.
• Develop a settlement plan outlining the steps for transitioning from temporary housing to permanent housing.
• Assist with applications for Social Insurance Numbers, Alberta Personal Health Number, and other documentation.
• Facilitate access to language training, and other integration programs.
• Participate in regular program, service, and agency meetings.
• Collaborate with the team leader in file reviews and case discussions.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client's records.
• Prepare regular reports on client progress and program outcomes.
• Attend mandatory training sessions.
• Share knowledge and learnings with colleagues to foster a collaborative and informed work environment.
• Airport Welcome and Orientation: Greet new arrivals at the airport, provide initial orientation briefings, and transport them to their temporary accommodations.
• Housing Assistance: Help Government Assisted Refugees find suitable permanent housing, understand lease agreements, and set up essential utilities. Provide ongoing support in navigating housing-related matters.
• Settlement Services: Perform RAP settlement duties.

What This Job Requires

• Degree in Social Worker, Human Services, or a related field.
• Experience in working with refugees or in a cross-cultural service delivery environment.
• Knowledge of the Resettlement Assistance Program and Immigration/refugee policies in Canada.
• Fluency in at least of one: Oromo and Tigrinya
• Proficiency in a second language would be an asset.
• Strong intercultural communication skills and sensitivity to the need of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required.
• Excellent organizational skills and problem-solving skills.
• Empathy and patience in dealing with individuals who may be experiencing significant stress and trauma.
• Familiarity with local community resources and services for newcomers.
• Ability to work collaboratively in diverse team.
• Police Information Check including vulnerable sector search, and Intervention Record Check current within six (6) months
• Police Information Check including vulnerable sector search, Intervention Record Check and/ or summary of driving record are conditions of employment and the financial responsibility of the candidate.

What We Offer:

• The annual salary for this position is$55,686.96 to $62,640.00 based on qualifications and experience.
• We offer flexibility and supportive working environment.
• Comprehensive benefit options when eligible.
• Work within a highly collaborative, team-oriented organization, where your ideas are heard, and you can see your impact daily.
• Growth Opportunities: apply and grow your skills within a dynamic, innovative and expanding Agency that is taking