Settlement Orientation Services (SOS) – Welcome Center (Vancouver and Surrey) location

Temporary full-time position at 28 hours per week starting as soon as possible through to December 31, 2022 (with the possibility of extension)

Spanish, Farsi or Dari language is an asset

Summary: The Housing Search Worker will provide assistance to Refugee Claimants coming to Settlement Orientation Services (SOS) in their search for immediate, short, and long-term housing within Metro Vancouver.

Reporting to:  Manager – Settlement Orientation Services

Responsibilities:

• Coordinates the housing search for refugee claimants and informs settlement workers of housing search status of clients and report to the SOS Manager of any issues with the housing search.
• Maintains a current listing of sources for housing options, community housing providers and building managers renting to clients (websites, contacts, etc.).
• Provides general information on Metro Vancouver rental market to refugee claimants and

individualized assistance, based on clients’ preferences, budget, and special needs.

• Assists the clients to access immediate and short-term housing needs through liaison with community housing providers.
• Liaises with landlords and building managers to facilitate renting opportunities to get appropriate information (rental cost, etc.) and arranges for a visit.
• May accompany clients on housing visits as needed or can arrange for a volunteer to accompany the client, if available.
• Informs and connects clients with low-cost furniture stores or donation centers.
• Assists in filling out housing related forms such as applications to BC Housing.
• Enters client information and service interventions into centralized database as client service occurs. Provides input to narrative reports as required.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Diploma in social services or other related field, OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience acceptable to the employer. Minimum of one (1) year’s recent, related experience in settlement services.

Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated effective communication in both written and oral English.
• Proven ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated ability to operate related office equipment.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Windows applications, software, and databases.
• Possession of and ability to maintain a clear BC Criminal Record Check.
• Ability to carry out the duties of the position.

ISSofBC’s mission and values emphasize inclusivity and recognition of individuals’ unique talents. In recruiting and developing our staff, we see strength in diversity of backgrounds, lived experiences, and identities. We welcome and encourage applicants who bring new perspectives and experiences to our team. 

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Applications must include "2022-SOS-01" in the subject line and can be sent to:

Closing Date:  By 4 pm, Friday, July 1, 2022

Role Salary Range:  $24.75 – $32.35 per hour

Expected Starting Range:  $24.75 - $26.27.  Dependent on education, training, experience, and internal equity.  Wage grids are reviewed annually. 

Applicants must be eligible to work in Canada. We thank all applicants; however, only those shortlisted will be contacted for an interview.

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