Child and Family Support Specialist

1 month ago


Port Hawkesbury, Canada The Government of Nova Scotia Full time

Competition #: 43859

Department: Community Services

Type of Employment: Term

Union Status: NSGEU - NSPG

About Us

The Department of Community Services (DCS) is a comprehensive and varied department dedicated to delivering a wide range of programs and services, including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support (ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support (DSP).

Our mission is to advocate for and assist vulnerable individuals in Nova Scotia, promoting independence, self-sufficiency, and security. We collaborate across the province with a committed network of supports and personnel to achieve shared goals for all.

About Our Opportunity

Are you seeking a role where you can make a significant and positive difference in the lives of children and families? Do you desire a workplace that fosters positive relationships and connections within your community? Are you interested in an environment that supports your ongoing professional and personal development?

Consider a fulfilling career as a Child and Family Support Specialist.

The Child and Family Support Specialist plays a crucial role in assisting Social Workers who engage with children, youth, and families involved in Child and Family Wellbeing programs. You will actively participate in supporting children, youth, and families to enhance resilience and inspire transformation.

Primary Responsibilities

In collaboration with the Social Worker, you will significantly influence the lives of children and families, serving as an essential member of the Child and Family Wellbeing team. Your key responsibilities will include:

  • Supporting Social Workers with documentation (cultural connection tools, genograms, Alternative Family Care applications)
  • Accompanying Social Workers on home visits
  • Entering Case Plans, Access Plans, and Plans of Care into departmental computer case management systems (ICM/CCM)
  • Assisting Social Workers in making collateral contacts
  • Facilitating referrals as recommended by the Social Worker to external agencies, services, and organizations
Qualifications and Experience

You possess a diploma in Child & Youth Care Work from a provincially recognized post-secondary institution. An undergraduate degree in Social Sciences is advantageous.

You have a solid understanding of child development, family dynamics, and community resources. You are knowledgeable about the physical, psychological, and emotional needs of children and youth in family settings and care. Key attributes include:

  • Collaborating effectively in a team environment to enhance support for children and families
  • Developing and working towards the objectives of case plans
  • Demonstrating compassion, resilience, and resourcefulness
  • Exhibiting strong communication skills (oral & written) and the ability to facilitate group discussions
  • Proficiency in various software applications, including Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)

Experience with departmental case management systems (ICM/CCM) is considered an asset.

We will evaluate the qualifications and competencies through various methods, including written examinations, standardized tests, oral presentations, interviews, and reference checks.

Equivalency

This position presents an excellent career opportunity for many. We acknowledge equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, allowing individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Related equivalencies may include, but are not limited to:

  • A related bachelor's degree in social science (such as Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, or Community Studies)
  • A completed diploma in Disability Supports or Social/Human Services

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must clearly demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Working Conditions

Your role involves accompanying the Social Worker and meeting clients in their homes, which requires considerable travel, sometimes in challenging weather conditions.

While in the office, you will work in a comfortable environment.

Your personal resilience is vital to meet the physical and emotional demands of this role. You will encounter high-stress and crisis situations, with ample support and resources available to you. You must be able to perform under pressure and be personally and professionally committed to working with culturally diverse individuals in an inclusive manner.

Additional Information

A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle are required.

This is a term employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of September 2, 2025. The appointment status ('term', 'temporary' or 'casual') is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer
  • Flexible working arrangements including modified work weeks.
  • Career possibilities, guidance and coaching, and ongoing training.
  • Rewarding and versatile work where you will see the immediate impacts you make in your communities.

Based on employment status, we also provide a comprehensive range of benefits such as:

  • Three (3) weeks of vacation to start, along with annual pay progression.
  • Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP)
  • Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability
  • Defined Pension Benefit Plan.

Click here to learn more about our various benefits offerings and eligibility criteria.

Pay Grade: TE 18 - TE 21

Salary Range: $1, $2,466.26 Bi-Weekly

Employment Equity Statement:

Our goal is to build a diverse workforce that reflects the citizens we serve. The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented. If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify in your application.

This is a bargaining unit position initially restricted to current civil service employees represented by the Nova Scotia Government Employees Union (NSGEU). If applying from outside a government office, employees must apply correctly via the designated link.

Failure to apply correctly means that your application will not be prioritized as a bargaining unit applicant and will only be considered if external applications are pursued. External applicants and current casual employees will only be considered if there are no qualified civil service bargaining unit candidates. PLEASE NOTE: Candidates will not be considered for an interview if applications are incomplete or missing information.

Offer of employment is conditional upon the completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials, the results of which must be satisfactory to the employer. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.



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