Restorative Engagement Specialist

Community Justice Society is hiring a Restorative Engagement Specialist

Organizational Overview:

Community Justice Society (CJS) is a not for profit, charitable organization that offers restorative programming to clients and community in safe, respectful, and empowering atmospheres. CJS offers a challenging, rewarding, fast-paced and flexible work environment, and advocates for a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that is as diverse as the clients we serve.

We are currently hiring a full-time position as a Restorative Engagement Specialist.

As an equal opportunity employer, CJS encourages applications from those who identity as African Nova Scotians, new immigrants settling in Nova Scotia, racially visible persons, persons with disabilities and persons of the LGBTQ+ community. Qualified applicants who wish to be considered for a posted position should self-identify in their cover letter.

CJS cannot assume any expenses related to travel or relocation for potential candidates.

Position Overview:

Our Restorative Engagement Specialists are dedicated to restorative, community-based approaches to justice, education, and harm reduction. They are responsible to work alongside community partners to support dialogue, accountability, and relationship-centered responses to harm and conflict. Their work is grounded in trauma-informed and culturally responsive approaches, with an emphasis on cultural humility, community voice and inclusive relationship building.

With a focus on youth, the CJS Team also works closely with parents/guardians, schools, and community to strengthen protective factors and advance community led solutions to support long term well-being and reduce justice system involvement.

Duties and Responsibilities include:

• Building relationships with schools, youth organizations, and justice partners
• Creating safe spaces for youth to learn and share
• Delivering youth programs such as Voices, Girl on Fire, A Young Man's Guide to Self-Mastery and Options to Anger
• Case specific principle-based planning/designing of appropriate restorative conversations
• Facilitating restorative conversations
• Provide support/follow-up to parties working through conflict
• Networking with justice and community partners to strengthen and maintain relationships and program delivery. This includes HRP, RCMP, Nova Scotia Legal Aid, Crowns, and the Courts in Halifax Regional Municipality; IWK, Boys and Girls Clubs, etc.
• Participating in regular CJS staff meetings
• Attending relevant professional development sessions

Qualifications:

• University degree in a relevant field AND minimum one year experience in a related position OR equivalent combination of education and experience*
• Clear Child Abuse Registry Check and Vulnerable Sector Check
• Knowledge and understanding of restorative principles and practices
• Proven ability to interact with persons of all backgrounds in a supportive, inclusive, equitable manner
• Ability to prioritize and excellent time management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and computer literacy skills
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and build strong relationships
• Demonstrated group facilitation skills and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to work with difficult people and maintain professionalism
• Working understanding of issues and concerns related to the criminal justice system
• Keen awareness of issues facing diverse communities
• Ability to work in partnership with stakeholder organizations

*Applicants relying on an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience must clearly state such equivalencies in their cover letter.

The successful candidate will have access to reliable transportation and/or possess a valid driver's license and suitable driver's abstract.

The compensation package for this full-time position is $52,000 - 55,000/year + health benefits and RRSP and has options for a modern work week schedule.

Send resume and cover letter, combined in one document, no later than March 16, 2026, via email to [email protected]

No phone calls please. We thank all applicants; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.