Employment Counsellor

Applications are invited for the following position:
**Position: Employment Counsellor**

**Hours: 35 Hours/Week**

**Reports to: Manager, Settlement Department**

**Start date**:ASAP**

**About Newcomer Centre of Peel**

Newcomer Centre of Peel (NCP) is a nonprofit, charitable, multi-service agency that assists the entire newcomer family in achieving settlement and integration. With experience and expertise in English language training; employability and business start-up and comprehensive settlement services including programs for women, children, youth and seniors; NCP offers a dedication to service quality. Through innovation and a progressive attitude, we leverage the broad experience of our staff and community partners to overcome settlement barriers.

**Main Duties & Responsibilities**

1. Conduct client needs assessment and develop employment assistance plans for Settlement clients

2. Provide one-on-one / group counseling (as relevant) to identify and address barriers to client’s employment and assist them in getting ready for labour market access

3. Work closely with the client to prepare an action plan appropriate to their employment needs outlining client goals (including short, intermediate and long term) and documenting outcomes

4. Provide individual resume assessment and revision advice to the clients

5. Follow-up on client’s progress on a consistent basis, within designated timeframes, to ensure their employment needs are met

6. Develop and conduct job search workshops and seminars specific to resume development, job search strategies, interview skills, soft skills and Canadian labour market trends

7. Provide information to clients in regulated and non-regulated professions, human resources, employment laws, Human Rights, Labour laws and other employment-related issues

8. Assist clients in understanding Canadian workplace culture, business communications, work ethics, etc

9. Provide information to fill the missing gaps related to available training sources, education options and second career

10. Liaise with the Volunteer Coordinator, the Labour Market Access Stream along with Job Developers, the Employer Engagement Specialist, Business Development Advisors and other NCP staff at the Labour Market Department to build up a network of host companies/employers to promote voluntary work / paid employment opportunities for clients

11. Develop strong business relationships with prospective host companies/employers using various strategies such as cold calling and liaising with external existing contacts

12. Monitor clients during their placement and work with both the host companies/employers and clients to address any concerns that may arise
- Organize special events that will enhance the program, as directed
- Participate in team meetings, events, and other initiatives as required
- Assist in outreach activities to recruit newcomer clients, as directed
- Continue professional growth through attendance at workshops, conferences, etc. The information acquired/learned should be shared with all team members.
- Collect statistics; submit monthly reports and input client data into iCARE and other internal databases, including but not limited to, OCMS and Excel

18. Assist the Settlement Manager, as required
- Other duties as assigned

**Qualifications**

1. University degree preferably in social work or social services field.

2. Expertise in assisting internationally-trained professionals with job search, resume/cover letter writing, interview skills, self-assessment, goal setting, and other strategies leading to employment

3. Current knowledge of legislation, regulatory body requirements, policies and practices related to employment, including knowledge of labour market issues and trends in Peel, Halton and GTA

4. Knowledge of social services in Peel, Halton and GTA

5. Capability to handle multiple priorities with ease and professionalism; able to work in a fast-paced environment with mínimal supervision

6. Intermediate computer skills and ability to work in a computerized environment using MS Word, Excel, Power Point, internet and Outlook

7. Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal

8. Arabic communication skills are considered as an asset

9. Strong group facilitation and presentation skills

10. Sensitivity to and understanding of immigrant issues

11. Team player and able to build and maintain positive relationship with employers, clients and all NCP staff

12. Positive attitude toward change

13. Own transportation; valid driver’s license and insurance

14. Knowledge of iCARE and OCMS systems is highly recommended

**Other Qualifications**

1. Take pride and initiative to ensure a high standard of work

2. Goal-oriented & highly organized; able to manage own time to attend to multiple client files and designing/delivering group workshops

3. Tactful and encouraging when assisting clients

4. Excellent research skills; interested in continually adding