Homelessness Outreach Worker

HOMELESSNESS OUTREACH WORKER
Job
Regular/Full‑time

Location:

Kamloops, B.C.

Reporting to the Coordinated Access and Assessment Manager, the Homelessness Outreach Worker connects with people experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless in community locations. They aid and assist individuals to navigate housing and related support systems. The incumbent collaborates with shelters, supportive housing providers, and homelessness service agencies to ensure an integrated system of supports and services. As a core member of a multidisciplinary regional homelessness and encampment response team (HEART), the position supports communities to prevent, minimize and/or resolve encampments and respond to homelessness through coordination and rapid support for individuals sheltering outdoors.

BC Housing is a provincial Crown Corporation that develops, manages and administers subsidized housing options across the province, from emergency shelter to private‑market rent assistance and affordable home ownership. Our mission is to provide access to safe, quality, accessible, and affordable housing options, promoting strong, inclusive communities where people can thrive.

• In‑house training and external courses related to employee positions or career advancement.
• Wellness programs: physical fitness, smoking cessation, free flu shots, mental health resources, lunch‑and‑learn lectures and seminars.
• Recognition programs: long‑term service awards, idea recognition and outstanding performance awards.
• Livegreen incentives: transit pass program, bike purchase program and other sustainable transportation initiatives.
• Active Social Club with seasonal parties and group discounts on events.
• Participation in community and charitable events.

Eligibility for benefits is based on employment status.

$64,991.02 – $75,143.40 annually.

• High School diploma plus post‑secondary courses in social housing, community development, mental health, trauma counselling, or other relevant discipline.
• Progressive experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty due to physical, mental, or psychological disability, and/or substance use challenges.
• Experience liaising with government, private and community‑based housing providers and working with diverse socio‑economic and cultural backgrounds.
• Some experience with crisis management and/or de‑escalation techniques.
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience acceptable to the employer.
• Tier 4 Criminal Record Check required.

• Considerable knowledge of causal factors of homelessness, mental illness, and/or addiction.
• Understanding of the importance of cultural and community connections in supporting individuals to improve well‑being, exit homelessness and thrive in housing.
• Good understanding or lived experience of impacts of residential schools, generational trauma and/or abuse.
• Knowledge of government, private and community‑based housing service providers.
• De‑escalation, negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Understanding of traditional, cultural and/or holistic wellness and healing initiatives.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in computer applications and MS Office tools.
• Empathy and confidentiality when engaging with diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to partner and collaborate with community partners, including advocates, volunteers, local business owners, neighbours and members.
• Ability to develop strong partnerships with service providers and community partners.
• Ability to learn, understand and update BC Housing mandates, programs and services.
• Ability to develop and foster trusting relationships with people facing homelessness and multiple barriers.
• Ability to travel and work occasional evenings and weekends; possession of a valid Class 5 BC driver’s licence and vehicle access.
• Subject to satisfactory criminal record search and required to maintain Security Clearance throughout employment.
• Access to a reliable vehicle required.

Indigenous candidates are welcome to contact an Indigenous team member to discuss the recruitment…