Native Council of Nova Scotia

Aboriginal Youth Outreach Worker

About NCNS

The Native Council of Nova Scotia (NCNS) acts as a self-governing authority for the large community of Mi'kmaq/Indigenous peoples residing off-reserve in Nova Scotia. Our mission is to operate and administer a strong and effective Indigenous Peoples Representative Organization that serves, advocates, and represents the off-reserve Mi'kmaq/Indigenous population. The NCNS's Youth Outreach Program is currently seeking an energetic, motivated, and mature candidate to fill the position of Youth Outreach Worker (Dartmouth Region) .

Position Overview

The Youth Outreach Program apart of the NCNS works to improve the immediate and long-term social, economic, and health outcomes for Mi'kmaq/Indigenous youth between 12 to 24 years old, residing off-reserve in Nova Scotia. Reporting to the Social Youth & YDI Coordinator, the Youth Outreach Worker will work collaboratively with local, provincial, or federal stakeholders to ensure the provision of inclusive, accessible, and responsive programs and services for Indigenous youth. This includes, but is not limited to: Drop-in Services, Crisis Intervention, Individual or Family Support, Cultural or Recreational Programs and Workshops, Referral Services, Mentorship or Education and Employment Support.

Overview of Responsibilities

• Conduct community outreach to identify and engage with Indigenous youth or promote the Youth Outreach Program events, programs, and services.
• Build and maintain working relationships with community service providers to facilitate culturally appropriate and safe contacts and services for Indigenous youth.
• Complete intake assessments to determine eligibility and identify programs or services required, and identify any barriers or challenges faced when accessing community-based services.
• Organize and maintain accurate and confidential records and/or documentation in accordance with NCNS policies and procedures.
• Engage with Indigenous youth (and their families) to provide mentorship, crisis intervention, accompaniment, referral services or other relevant services as required.
• Collaborate with other NCNS programs and staff to develop and implement services, programs, or events for Indigenous youth.
• Prepare various reports such as: monthly program accomplishments and challenges, program statistics and services, and travel expenses.
• Carry out other relevant duties as part of the Youth Outreach Program.

Position Requirements

The successful candidate will require a diverse skill set including but not limited to, relationship building, program development, program delivery and self-management. Additional qualifications include:

• A minimum of two years working with the Mi'kmaq/Indigenous population and/or knowledge and understanding of Mi'kmaq/Indigenous culture, values, and practices; lived experience will be considered an asset.
• A combination of education, training, and experience will be considered for this position; A diploma in Social Services (Child and Youth, Early Childhood Education, Human Services, Recreation, etc.) would be considered an asset.
• An understanding of local, provincial, or federal health, social, or educational programs and services available to Indigenous youth.
• Ability to work unsupervised with a high level of productivity and ability to seek and take direction.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong computer literacy skills, including knowledge and understanding of Microsoft Office Programs: Excel, Outlook, Word, SharePoint, etc.
• Access to reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and the ability to travel throughout Nova Scotia.
• Flexibility to work outside normal working hours to meet the needs of Indigenous youth.
• Criminal Record (including vulnerable sector-screening) and Child Abuse Registry check required.
• Fluency in the Mi'kmaq language will be considered an asset.

Salary/Employment Term

The salary range for this position is between $40,000 to $45,000 per annum based on qualifications and experience. Successful candidates will be given a one-year contract, with the possibility for renewal.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open until filled.

We are an equal opportunity employer; however, qualified Indigenous applicants will be given priority in accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preference Policy of the Canadian Human Rights Commission. Only those applicants who provide an up-to-date CV, cover letter, and qualify for an interview will be contacted. Applicants must provide proof of Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Residency