Social Worker - multiple vacancies

Organization Summary:

Empowered by the First Nations Leadership Council and in partnership with the provincial and federal governments, the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) is responsible to 204 First Nations in BC. Our mandate is to reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system and to support Nations as they move to sovereignty over justice.

The BCFNJC is growing rapidly. Indigenous people in BC deserve world-class legal services and programs. To this end, we are seeking team members who share our vision, understand the gravity of the work, are excited by the opportunity and will not stop until we reach our goal. We take our mandate seriously but also strive for a balanced, caring work environment that is respectful and supportive.

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Associate Director and/or designate, the Social Worker will support the Participants of the Indigenous Diversion Centre – a novel program which aims to reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system in Prince George. The Social Worker will work closely with Participants facing significant barriers in their lives, helping to develop trusting and safe therapeutic connections while providing culturally appropriate, trauma-informed care. This position demands a high level of social facilitation, relationship-building, and experience with working in a good way with Indigenous people. The position requires strong anti-oppressive communication and must adhere to strict confidentiality and professional standards that are in alignment with the BC College of Social Workers (BCCSW).

The Diversion Centre will be supporting Indigenous community members from across Northern British Columbia. The Diversion Centre is designed to divert Indigenous peoples away from the criminal justice system at the point of contact with RCMP, or in a post-release manner from Prince George Regional Correction Centre (PGRCC). Emphasizing the urgent and direct need to have social service mechanism initiated at that point of contact to lower recidivism through Diversion. The BC First Nations Justice Council is committed to reforming the criminal justice system and restoring Indigenous legal traditions.

Preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Report to and take direction from the Associate Director of Northern Healing and Diversion and/or the Social Work Manager.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, new and growing program with a small multi-disciplinary team, while always maintaining positive working relationships built on respect in a team environment.
• Provide direct support and advocacy for Indigenous individuals involved in the criminal justice system, creating Diversion Plans to help divert participants from further engagement in the criminal justice system.
• Assist participants in developing individualized healing plans that define physical, emotional, spiritual and mental goals, supporting them in accessing necessary services, including housing, employment, education, healthcare, and any other services as identified.
• Facilitate positive connections between clients and community referral partners, providing oversight and management of these referral relationships over the long-term.
• Coordinate with local Indigenous organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure integrated service delivery and continuity of care.
• Facilitating weekly guided teachings and sharing circles which help develop life skills and personal awareness with participants in a group setting.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records – demonstrating excellence in client file management and adherence to policies.
• Monitor and evaluate client progress, adjusting Diversion and Healing Plans when necessary to meet participant needs.
• Ensure all services are delivered in a manner that is respectful of Indigenous cultures and traditions.
• Ability to maintain personal wellness in a high-stress environment supporting participants with significant needs and facing multiple barriers.
• Working closely with the Cultural Lead and Elder in Residence – encouraging participants to participate in the ceremonial, cultural and land-based activities of the Centre.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Work Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, mental health or related field, or a combination of experience. Master’s degree desirable.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in social work, preferred with First Nations legal issues, and cultural focuses to social work.
• Registered Social Worker (RSW) designation in British Columbia is an asset.
• Strong understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories, and the impacts of settler colonialism, with a strong focus on trauma-based practices.
• Training and experience in trauma-informed de-escalation practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other relevant software.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with interpersonal skills and ability to foster and work within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Able to foster a collaborative team framework, particularly within remote teams.
• Work effectively in an interdisciplinary environment
• Valid BC class 5 Driver’s License, the use of a vehicle and ability to travel.
• A clear criminal reference check (CPIC) and Vulnerable Sector Clearance will be a condition of employment.

Reporting: Associate Director of Northern Diversion and Healing

Location: Prince George

Benefits: Extended benefits package that includes health and dental, personal days, paid vacation, and RRSP/TFSA savings plans

Pay Range: $75,000-$90,000 - salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Hours: Full-time (35hours / week); Mondays to Fridays

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to Indigenous applicants in accordance with section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code. Candidates of Indigenous background are encouraged to self-identify on their application.