ABOUT US

The Catholic Centre for immigrants (CCI) has been serving refugees and immigrants for more than 65 years. CCI is a bridge between the 7,000 immigrants and refugees who come to Ottawa each year and the community. We provide programs and services to help newcomers settle and integrate. We also work in the community to promote the value of a diverse and more welcoming community for all.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Housing Worker is responsible for assessing and addressing the housing needs of clients and helping them to find secure housing within the community.

This position reports to: Manager
Employment status: Contract – March 31, 2025
Hourly rate: $28.66
Deadline date to apply: April 30, 2024

Open to: Internal/External candidates

Location: 30 Mountain Crescent

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the direction of the Manager, the Housing Worker will:

• Assess and respond to clients' housing needs.
• Create and monitor housing plans.
• Assist clients in finding suitable housing accommodations, including completing rental applications, viewing housing options, rent negotiation, leases, rent payment, etc.
• Liaise with landlords to secure unit, prepare documentation, prepare for lease signing, etc.
• Support clients in obtaining furniture and essentials for their housing, setting up utility accounts, and securing tenant insurance.
• Accompany clients to appointments as needed.
• Complete home visits, including on moving day and follow ups.
• Provide education on housing issues, including tenant/landlord rights, subsidized housing, and housing benefits.
• Refer clients to appropriate community services in relation to individual needs.
• Identify, establish, and maintain positive working relationships with relevant community stakeholders and landlords to secure support and permanent accommodation for clients.
• Advocate on behalf of clients with community service providers and suppliers.
• Maintain accurate service records and program documentation.

• Prepare activity reports and statistics as required.
• Other duties assigned by manager.

QUALIFICATIONS

The Housing Worker understands and supports CCI's mission. This position requires strong communications and interpersonal skills, excellent organizational abilities and exceptional cultural competency. The Housing Worker must be a self-starter with initiative who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment.

• Post-secondary education in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least two years of experience in a social service or housing sector setting.

• Exceptional interpersonal skills, and a high degree of cross-cultural competence.
• Familiarity with housing issues and the Ottawa housing market.
• Experience assessing client needs to provide appropriate service and referrals.
• Knowledge of services and resources available to assist newcomers to Canada.
• Skilled at de-escalation, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
• Ability to perform duties independently and with minimal supervision.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to function in a multidisciplinary, culturally diverse workplace.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Proficiency with computer applications including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Fluency in English and French is required. Fluency in other languages is a strong asset.
  
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Please submit both a cover letter and resume no later than April 30, 2024. Applications will only be accepted electronically. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.

The Catholic Centre for Immigrants (CCI) is committed to being an equal opportunity employer. Please advise in advance if you require any accommodation during the application or selection process. CCI is committed to employment equity and encourages candidates to self-identify as visible minorities; people from culturally diverse backgrounds; people of all gender identities and sexual orientations; Indigenous peoples; and persons with disabilities.