New Job Social Worker 1(A)-(B)-2 (Part-Time, Term) In Nova Scotia

About Us

The Department of Community Services (DCS) works collaboratively with community, social enterprise, other departments of government, and not-for-profits to ensure vulnerable children, families and individuals receive the supports they need to live safe, healthy, and productive lives. We are committed to a social service system that helps people be as independent and healthy as possible, and to reach their full potential.

We offer various programs including Child, Youth & Family Support, Employment Support & Income Assistance, and Disability Support Programs.

For more information on our Department please click here: https://novascotia.ca/coms/.

About Our Opportunity

If you are passionate about helping our most vulnerable citizens, a career in child welfare provides you with the opportunity to make a profound and positive impact in the lives of children, youth and their families. You will be employed in a dynamic, creative and collaborative work environment which celebrates diversity, promotes continued professional growth and provides you with the opportunity to utilize your full range of social work skills, knowledge and experience.

And when you join our team supporting the Central Region of our Province, you will be joining a team that understands the value of community and focuses on strengthening children, youth and families to live healthy and thriving lives.

Primary Accountabilities

As a Social Worker, you are responsible for ensuring the health, safety and well-being of children in the care of the Minister and those who remain in the care of their parents where concerns exist about their health and safety.

You will directly support a wide variety of professional child welfare services including protection services for children; development, coordination, and implementation of foster care and adoption services; and planning and supervision of children in care and custody. You will intervene under the Children and Family Services Act, and in accordance with the legislation and policies of the program, to protect children and make a lasting difference in their lives. You exercise judgment and make decisions regarding case planning with children, youth, and families in consultation with your supervisor and colleagues.

Qualifications and Experience

You have completed your Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW); or are a Registered Social Worker (RSW) who is currently classified and practicing as a social worker in the field of child welfare. You must be eligible for registration with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. Notice to Pending Social Work Graduates: If you anticipate graduation from your BSW program within the next few months of this posting, you are encouraged to apply.

Your understanding of child development, family functioning, child abuse and neglect have prepared you to speak up for your clients and empower change. You are compassionate, reliant, and resourceful. You are well versed in effective intervention strategies when supporting individuals and families. You are a problem solver who applies their studies and experience in creative ways to best support your clients. Knowledge of the Children and Family Service Act is a definite asset.

You demonstrate key qualities such as problem solving, decision making, and are a strong team player who is keen to practice social work within a government system.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and Union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offerings and eligibility criteria.

Working Conditions

Most of your work involves meeting with clients in their homes or with providers. This necessitates considerable driving time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions. While present in the office, your time is spent a comfortable office environment with flexible working options available.

On a rotating schedule, you will be required to provide child protection services for your designated area, after regular business hours. This will include working on weekends and reporting to the provincial after-hours response team. You may be required to work beyond regular business hours on short notice.

Your personal resiliency is essential to meet the physical and emotional demands of this position. You will be immersed in high stress and crisis situations. You must be able to work under pressure and be personally and professionally committed to working with culturally diverse individuals in a respectful, inclusive, and racism-free manner.

Additional Information

We invest in your career development and progression. You may be eligible for reimbursement of your registration fees to the NS College of Social Workers.

You must have a valid drivers licence and the ability to travel to various work site locations. Travel expenses will be covered in accordance with the collective agreement, policies, and procedures.

This is a Part-time (35 hours bi-weekly) Term opportunity with an anticipated end date of September 1, 2022. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

On October 6, 2021 the Government of Nova Scotia announced full vaccination will be a condition of employment for new staff being hired. View the news release here.

What We Offer

• Career Possibilities; you will have access to multiple career paths, career guidance, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Rewarding and versatile work; daily, you will get to see the impact you have in and around your community.
• Engaging workplace; you are respected, supported, and valued. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies and incorporate your feedback to enhance our services.
• Flexible working schedules; as you work with your clients, we will work with you to support flexible working options, ensuring that you have the tools, resources, and time to bring out the best in you.