Position Title:                         Settlement Worker in School (Somali-speaking)

Organization Structure:         Reports to the Programs Manager

Job classification:                  SWIS

Job Status:                              Full-time

Number of positions:             1

Location:                                 Mississauga

Wages:                                     $26.45/hour for 35 hours/week

This is a bargaining unit position.

About Polycultural

Be a part of Polycultural Immigrant and Community services! Founded in 1993, Polycultural is dedicated to hosting an open and inclusive environment for all. We are a multicultural melting-pot perfectly reflecting Canada’s diversity. We are like a family, have a culture filled with care and genuine connection with a very inclusive environment for all. With a diverse range of programs and services, we help individuals and families build a brighter future in Canada. Serving clients from over eight different locations across the GTA and Orangeville in more than 20 languages.

Polycultural offers a comprehensive benefits, including paid time off at Christmas (for eligible employees), employer paid Extended Health and Dental, RRSP match, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and WorkPerks!

Scope

The SWIS Worker will be responsible for working in schools designated as partners with Polycultural and counseling and supporting students and their families in understanding the Peel School systems.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Meet regularly with school officials to ensure program plan is in place and relationships are maintained
• Evaluate the success of the relationship in meeting the needs of students and their families
• Encourages and promotes the involvement of students and their families in all areas of the program planning, evaluation, and delivery
• Deliver direct services in terms of counseling and support that addresses the new immigrant’s educational and settlement needs
• Based on initial contact, complete intake form and enter applicable data into the database (OCMS)
• Provides comprehensive information on orientation to Canadian society, as well as conducting needs assessments to determine client’s needs and eligibility
• Conduct program promotion sessions to recruit volunteers and to promote public awareness of the program and settlement issues
• Organize and support group activities, workshops, outings, field trips, and English Conversation Circles and other SWIS-related summer activities, such as iFUN and WOW
• Provide information and referral to internal and external programs regarding services that will be determined by each client/family
• Maintain and expand client’s base through outreach, community penetration, and itinerate functions, which includes off-site visits, developing of outreach materials, and promoting community networks to link newcomers
• Maintain strong working relations with staff in schools, districts, and partner agencies
• Effectively track and provide accurate reporting for SWIS team, SWIS Coordinator, and Programs Manager
• Achieve the targets set by the Programs Manager 

Competencies

Adaptability

Changes behavioural style or method of approach when necessary to achieve a goal; adjusts style as appropriate to the needs of the situation. Responds to change with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn new ways to accomplish work activities and objectives.

Communications

Using a variety of communication styles and strategies to foster open communication and to exchange of information and discussion on an ongoing basis.

Initiative

Does more than is required or expected in the job; does things that no one has requested that will improve or enhance services, avoid problems, and develops entrepreneurial opportunities. Plans ahead for upcoming problems or opportunities and takes appropriate action.

Service

Demonstrates strong commitment to meeting the needs of clients, co-workers, managers, or community members, striving to ensure their full satisfaction.

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Social Work, Counseling, or Education and at least three years of experience working with immigrant communities or a combination of experience and education that fulfills the requirements
• Registration with the college is an asset (RSW, RSSW)
• Knowledge of immigration and refugee services and of the ethno-specific programs and services (e.g. Government and agencies) in Peel
• Language Proficiency certificate identifying the fluency of English and target language skills (for ATIO members: present the certificate of membership)
• Familiarity with issues facing newcomers in Canadian urban setting and systemic barrier facing integration in education, social, cultural, and economic aspects of Canadian life
• Excellent interpersonal, cross-cultural, written, and verbal communication skills
• Experience in outreach, community development, and marketing of program and services
• Ability to work flexible schedules on an as-needed basis
• Fluency in Somali is required 

Other requirements

• A satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Police Check (completed when offer is made)

In support of persons with disabilities, Polycultural asks that job applicants with disabilities who require accommodation in the recruitment and selection process, to please advise Human Resources if contacted for an interview/testing so that suitable accommodation can be arranged. (In compliance with AODA, 2005, Integrated Accessibility Standards). If you require assistance in sending your resume due to a disability, please contact Human Resources directly.

We thank everyone for their interest in Polycultural; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Polycultural Immigrant & Community Services hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity.

No phone calls please.