Homelessness Outreach Worker

SHORT-TERM (APRX 2 YEARS)/FULL-TIME

Location: INTERIOR REGION - Please note this position is based in Kamloops, British Columbia and requires working on-site

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 incumbent assists individuals to navigate housing and related support systems, collaborates and partners with shelters and supportive housing providers, and works with homelessness service agencies to support an integrated system of supports.

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

Education & Experience

• High School diploma plus completion of post‑secondary courses in social housing, community development, mental health, trauma counselling, or other relevant discipline.
• Considerable progressive experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty due to physical, mental, or psychological disability, and/or substance use challenges.
• Sound experience 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.
• 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.
• Understanding of cultural and community connections in supporting individuals to improve well‑being, exit homelessness and thrive in housing.
• Good understanding or lived experience of impacts of residential schools, generational trauma and/or abuse.
• Knowledge of government, private and community‑based housing service providers.
• Good de‑escalation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Understanding of traditional, cultural and/or holistic wellness and healing initiatives.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in computer applications and Microsoft Office tools.
• Empathy when engaging with diverse socio‑economic and cultural backgrounds; confidentiality and sensitivity.
• Ability to partner and engage with community partners including advocates, volunteers, local business owners, neighbours, and community members.
• Ability to develop strong partnerships with service providers and community partners.
• Spreads current BC Housing mandate, programmes and services.
• Ability to develop and foster trusting relationships with people facing homelessness and multiple barriers.
• Travel and work periodic evenings and weekends; valid Class 5 BC driver’s licence and access to a vehicle required.
• Subject to satisfactory criminal record search and maintain security clearance throughout employment.

Indigenous candidates are welcomed to connect with an Indigenous team member in our organization. Please contact  to arrange a call.

• In‑house training and training at other institutions for courses related to current positions or for advancement within BC Housing.
• Wellness programmes including physical fitness, smoking cessation, free flu shots, mental health resources, and lunch‑and‑learn lectures and seminars.
• Recognition programmes including long‑term service awards, idea recognition and outstanding performance awards.
• Livegreen incentives including an employee transit pass program and other initiatives encouraging alternative, sustainable transportation.
• An active Social Club organizing special events and arranging group discounts to other events.
• Participation in community and charitable events.

At BC Housing, we are committed to providing a healthy, safe and inclusive workplace. We invite and welcome applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous People, People with Disabilities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and all people committed to meaningful work that makes a difference.