Employment Counsellor

About Us:

Since 1949, the John Howard Society of Niagara (JHSoN) has been a non-profit organization committed to the development and delivery of program that reduce the social, economic and personal costs of crime. We are dedicated to helping all people who have been in contact with the law or who face imminent risk of coming into conflict with the law through service, education and community programs. Today, the JHSoN offers various programs and services through its four pillars justice, prevention, employment and education. With four sites and one itinerant site across the Niagara and Hamilton area; in Fort Erie, Welland, Niagara Falls, and St. Catharines, the John Howard Society of Niagara currently has over 65 employees.

Our Mission Statement:

"Through responsive and individualized service, the John Howard Society of Niagara is committed to facilitating positive personal growth through Justice, Prevention, Employment and Education programs that enrich the communities of the Niagara Region."

Program Overview:

The JHSoN offers Employment Services (Job Gym) across the Niagara Region and Hamilton area in a collaborative, client centered process in order to help individuals achieve their employment and educational goals. Programs are funded municipally, provincially and federally.

Key Job Functions:

• Working at Hamilton area Probation and Parole office case managing justice involved individuals

· Working effectively within a performance-based structure with a proven record of accomplishing or exceeding all targets and deadlines

· Working with low-income, multi-racial, multi-lingual newcomer communities

· Conducting regular evaluations with all JHSoN clients and employers to assess the outcome of the program

· Utilizing client-centric methodologies to ensure client needs are satisfied, creating positive client experience

· Employing a high level of customer service in all interactions, helping to establish and maintain positive rapport with all stakeholders

· Conducting intake and needs assessment with clients ranging in age from 14 years and older

· Determining suitability and eligibility for financial supports as related to employment

· Exploring life stabilization needs and community partner recourses in order to utilize an Employment Action Plan; providing appropriate and timely referrals

· Utilizing and interpreting labour market information to help individuals make informed decisions

· Determining job readiness using an Employment Counselling Theory of Practice

· Managing caseload of up to 250 individuals including regular follow up to determine employment status and activity

· Meeting monthly individual and team targets as set out by agency and funder

· Conducting regular community outreach to achieve standard key performance indicators such as: Persons with Disabilities, Youth, newcomers, Francophones, Indigenous

· Maintaining real-time, accurate case notes using a variety of software, platforms, and client management systems

· Developing and facilitating training/educational sessions to both small and large groups through in-person and virtual sessions, held in-house and throughout the community

· Working from an integrated anti-oppression, LGBTQ+ positive framework

· Understanding and critical analysis of challenges and systemic barriers to labour market integration

To be successful in this role you will have:

· Familiarity with client management systems

· Excellent rapport building, interpersonal, verbal, and written skills

· Strong time management, critical thinking, administrative, and organizational skills

· Client centered approach

· Trauma informed approach

Credentials considered an asset:

· Post-secondary degree or diploma in Human Services, Employment Counselling, Child/Youth

· Career Development Practitioner Certificate

· Valid Driver's Licence, insurance, and vehicle

· Second language is considered an asset

What we offer:

· Competitive base salary, with step increases commensurate with successful performance reviews and movement on salary grid

· Group health benefits

· Quarterly RRSP contributions

· Employee Assistance Plan

· Tuition assistance and reimbursement program

· vacation and paid sick day allowance

· Personal day allotment

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

• The John Howard Society of Niagara is committed to reflecting and responding to the diversity of the people and communities we serve and is seeking that diversity in applicants for this position. We welcome candidates from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+, and all candidates who contribute to furthering the diversity of ideas. We also recognize that people from diverse groups have differing needs and require solutions to gain equal opportunity for success in the hiring process. If you require any accommodation during the interview process, please reach out to our Executive Director (Interim) - Information received relating to accommodation requests will be treated with confidentiality.
• The offices of the John Howard Society of Niagara are located in the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudinaushanee Peoples. This land remains home to many First Nations, Metis and Inuit from across Turtle Island. As a settler organization, we seek to respect the rights and experiences of Indigenous Peoples, and work towards reconciliation in our daily practices.

Screening:

As a condition of employment, the successful candidate must complete a Vulnerable Sector Police Reference check, drivers abstract, proof of automobile insurance and proof of education

Salary:

$46,229.50 to $52,940.69

How to Apply:

apply in writing, by January 9, 2026 at 04:30 pm to:

Deanna Villella

Executive Director (Interim)

John Howard Society of Niagara

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $46,229.50-$52,940.69 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person