Settlement - RAP Counsellor

191 Churchill Blvd, Saint John, NB E2K 3E2, Canada

Posted Monday, June 22, 2026 at 2:00 a.m.

The federal Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) provides income support and a range of immediate essential services to government assisted refugees within the initial 4‑6 weeks of their arrival in the Saint John region. The Resettlement (RAP) Counsellor is an enthusiastic individual who welcomes, receives, and helps address the settlement needs of government‑assisted refugees (GARs) in Saint John. This role also raises community awareness to sponsor and assist refugees.

The position requires the ability to prioritize tasks, reliable transportation, and availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. Work is full‑time and reported to the RAP Supervisor at Newcomer Connections.

Position Status: This is a full‑time interim position with an anticipated duration of approximately 40 weeks. The exact end date may vary based on organizational needs.

• Receive government‑assisted refugees in Saint John and ensure they obtain temporary accommodation.
• Arrange temporary accommodation and provide interpretation/translation services as required.
• Perform and record initial needs assessments for government‑assisted refugees.
• Work with the Settlement Trainer to provide a basic orientation to IRCC programs, city services, telephone access, Canadian currency, banking, shopping, accommodation, education, the legal system, cultural norms and expectations, public transportation, and rights and freedoms.
• Identify and refer high‑needs clients with life‑skills issues beyond the scope of the basic suite of services provided under RAP.
• Provide orientation related to the city of Saint John and the location of essential services, including but not limited to hospitals, grocery stores, police stations, and restaurants.
• Report all client‑related activity using the iCARE database daily.
• Ensure the RAP checklist is complete and the client transition to settlement is arranged within the RAP period.
• Work with the RAP Supervisor to develop and monitor program measurement tools and report on effectiveness.
• Identify opportunities to improve services to government‑assisted refugees.
• Provide guidance to Newcomer Connections staff on matters relating to government‑assisted refugees.
• Attend public events as required to raise awareness about the work of Newcomer Connections.
• Foster relationships with community groups and organizations seeking to support newcomers.
• Provide services in a supportive and culturally sensitive manner.
• Provide reports as directed by the Supervisor and Manager.
• Compile and submit monthly expenses within the mandated deadlines.
• Attend all staff meetings.
• Perform duties assigned by the Manager or General Manager.

• Provide arrival services, including welcoming clients at the airport and coordinating transportation to temporary accommodation.
• Collaborate with the Complex Case Worker to arrange post‑arrival health assessments.
• Input and maintain client records in the Y Newcomer Connections CRM database as directed by the Supervisor.
• Connect government‑assisted refugees to mandatory federal and provincial programs (health plan, social insurance number, National Child Benefit, etc.).
• Assist with securing permanent accommodation and coordinating affordable housing options for eligible clients.
• Assist with the collection of household goods and furniture for permanent accommodation.
• Perform client intake, complete data entry in the CRM, and coordinate follow‑up.
• Liaise with the Complex Case Worker, medical community, and Settlement Team to ensure comprehensive health care during the initial year.

• A Bachelor's Degree, Community College diploma or similar from an accredited institution.
• Approachable and possessing a client‑centric attitude.
• Heightened sensitivity to the needs of an immigrant community.
• Exceptional ability to communicate in English with clients whose first language is not English.
• At least 3 years’ work experience in a cross‑cultural environment.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
• Exceptional…