Homelessness Outreach Worker

ABOUT THE ORGANISATION
BC Housing is a provincial Crown Corporation that develops, manages and administers a wide range of subsidised housing options for those most in need across the province to address critical gaps across the housing continuum ranging from emergency shelter through to rent assistance in the private market and affordable home ownership.

Share in the rewards of working with an organization that offers challenging work and competitive compensation and supports the growth and development of its people.

POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Coordinated Access and Assessment Manager, the Homelessness Outreach Worker connects with people experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless in community locations.

The role aids and assists individuals to navigate housing and related support system(s) and collaborates with shelters, supportive housing providers, and homelessness service agencies to ensure an integrated system of supports and services.

As a core member of the multidisciplinary regional homelessness and encampment response team (HEART), the position supports communities to prevent, minimise and resolve encampments and responds to homelessness through coordination and rapid support for individuals sheltering outdoors.

CANDIDATE PROFILE
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

High School diploma plus completion of post‑secondary courses in social housing, community development, mental health, trauma counselling, and/or other relevant discipline.

Considerable progressive experience in working with individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty on account of physical, mental or psychological disability, and/or substance use challenges.

Sound experience in liaising with government, private and community‑based housing providers and working with individuals from diverse socio‑economic and cultural backgrounds.

Some experience with crisis management and/or de‑escalation techniques.

Or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience acceptable to the employer.

Tier 4 Criminal Record Check required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Considerable knowledge of causal factors of homelessness, mental illness and/or addiction.

Sound understanding of the importance of cultural and community connections in supporting individuals to improve well‑being, exit homelessness and thrive in housing.

Good understanding or lived experience of the impacts of residential schools, generational trauma and/or abuse.

Sound knowledge of government, private and community‑based housing service providers.

Excellent de‑escalation, negotiation and conflict resolution skills to manage evolving situations.

Good understanding of traditional, cultural and/or holistic wellness and healing initiatives.

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

Proficient in computer applications and software including MS Office tools.

Demonstrated ability to empathise when engaging with individuals from diverse socio‑economic and cultural backgrounds, maintaining a high degree of confidentiality and sensitivity.

Demonstrated ability to partner and exhibit curiosity when engaging with a wide array of community partners, including advocates, volunteers, local business owners, neighbours and community members.

Ability to develop strong partnerships with service providers and community partners.

Ability to learn, understand and update BC Housing mandate, programmes and services.

Ability to develop and foster trusting relationships with people facing homelessness and multiple barriers.

Ability to travel and work periodic evenings and weekends; transportation arrangements must meet operational requirements. Valid Class 5 BC driver’s licence and access to a vehicle.

Successful applicant(s) must maintain a satisfactory criminal record search and Security Clearance throughout employment.

Due to the nature of this role, a valid Class 5 driver’s licence and satisfactory driving record is required.

Due to the nature of this role, access to a reliable vehicle will be required.

BENEFITS
Salary: $64,991.02 – $75,143.40 annually.

BC Housing offers competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package.

In‑house training and training at other institutions for…