Key Worker - Phoenix Youth Shelter

Since 1987, Phoenix has been dedicated to supporting youth and contributing to a vibrant community. Phoenix’s over fourteen locations in Halifax, N.S. provide a continuum of care for youth aged 11‑24 and their families. Our team of caring professionals recognizes that each person who comes to us has individual needs as well as strengths. People are the leaders in their own lives;
Phoenix is a leader in supporting them.

A staff group that represents the diversity of the people and communities we serve is of the utmost importance. Phoenix is committed to reducing barriers that have traditionally impacted access to employment and career growth. As such, we encourage those interested to self‑identify their ethnicity, and or race, gender, sexuality, ability, etc. We also invite you to share your pronouns in your cover letter or resume.

Position Overview
The Key Worker provides on‑going guidance and support to help residents meet their identified goals in the Phoenix Youth Shelter program. The Key Worker also supports with daily programming which all residents at the Shelter have access to.

Program Overview
Phoenix Youth Shelter is a 20‑bed emergency shelter that provides free, safe, emergency accommodations to youth ages 16‑24. The Shelter supplies daily essentials (food, clothing, shelter, etc.) around the clock to youth who seek support.

The Key Worker will work in a shared office space in a four‑storey residential building in the South End of Halifax. Access to the building is by stairs or ramp; access to the upper floors of the building is by stairs only. The facility features gender‑neutral washrooms, a shared kitchen, private and shared offices, common areas for youth, private bedrooms for youth, hygiene supplies, and a donation room.

Staff are provided with meals and snacks on shift.

Reports to
Manager, Phoenix Youth Shelter.

Compensation
$49,779 annual salary, comprehensive group medical insurance plan, Employee and Family Assistance Program, 3% Employer paid RRSP contribution, 3 weeks of vacation in the first year and 4 weeks of vacation in the second year, generous sick leave, a generous paid holiday schedule, in‑house trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Hours of Work
Shifts (usually 8 or 12 hours) fall during days, evenings, weekdays, and weekends.

Screening Requirements
Due to the sensitive nature of our work with youth, this position is subject to a satisfactory criminal record check including a vulnerable sector search, a child abuse register check and proof of education.

Key Responsibilities

Supervise and monitor the Shelter’s day‑to‑day activities and ensure that policies, security and safety are maintained.

Assess and address the immediate and basic needs of the program’s youth.

Work with youth and other Phoenix programs to create effective support plans.

Provide support, crisis intervention and programming for youth.

Dispense medication to youth following medication dispensing protocols.

Provide a supportive environment that promotes youth empowerment.

Fulfill significant cooking and cleaning responsibilities.

Contribute to building maintenance to ensure a therapeutic milieu.

Assist in training new staff, students and volunteers as required.

Supervise field placement students and support the supervision of volunteers.

Complete and maintain logs, files and records and ensure confidentiality is protected.

Advocate with community agencies on behalf of the program and its youth.

Commit to the development of the agency and participate in internal committees, projects and activities.

Qualifications

Bachelor of Social Work, or an undergraduate degree and Human Services diploma, or another relevant undergraduate degree.

Registration or Candidacy for Registration, certification, or membership of a related professional body (if applicable).

A minimum of two years’ experience working in a youth residential setting.

Demonstrated high level of understanding of youth development and the issues of homelessness.

Demonstrated skill using anti‑oppressive practice (harm reduction, narrative practice, a client‑directed approach, and a social justice perspective).

Knowledge of mental health issues, substance…