Intake/Settlement Specialist (Contract)

About CVIMS: Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society (CVIMS) is a non-profit settlement organization located in Nanaimo, B.C., Canada. Established in 1979, CVIMS provides support to newcomers and refugees. Services include settlement, employment, family, language, and community programs. We are client-driven and committed to being accessible and responsive to, as well as reflective of, our diverse community.

Job Summary: The Intake/Settlement Specialist serves as the first point of contact for immigrants, refugees, and other newcomers seeking settlement support. This role is responsible for conducting client intakes, assessing immediate and long-term needs, and connecting clients to relevant programs and services. The Specialist provides information, orientation, and referrals that empower newcomers to navigate their settlement journey successfully, fostering inclusion and promoting integration into Canadian society.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Intake and Needs Assessment:

• Conduct comprehensive intake interviews with newcomers to gather background information and assess immediate settlement needs.
• Evaluate and document client strengths, barriers, and goals to determine eligibility for various programs and services.
• Prioritize urgent needs such as housing, legal aid, health services, and financial assistance during the intake process.
• Identify risk factors such as trauma, isolation, and mental health concerns, providing referrals to appropriate services.
• Maintain a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally sensitive environment during client interactions.

Information and Orientation Services:

• Provide accurate and up-to-date information on topics such as:
• Immigration and residency pathways.
• Health services, education, and childcare options.
• Housing resources and tenant rights.
• Employment services and credential recognition.
• Legal rights, government programs, and community resources.
• In the absence of Group Facilitator deliver orientation sessions and workshops that address settlement topics, promoting independence and self-reliance.
• Develop and distribute informational materials to guide newcomers through their integration process.

Service Coordination and Referrals:

• Connect clients with internal programs (language training, employment services, community support groups) and external partners (legal clinics, shelters, schools, other community organizations, healthcare providers).
• Collaborate with social workers, case managers, and employment advisors to provide wrap-around support.
• Build and maintain referral networks with community organizations and government agencies.
• Follow up with clients to ensure successful connections to services, addressing any barriers they encounter.

Advocacy and Client Empowerment:

• Advocate on behalf of clients to address systemic barriers and ensure equitable access to resources.
• Support clients in understanding their rights and responsibilities in Canada, promoting informed decision-making.
• Develop settlement plans with clients to empower personal and professional growth, supporting them in achieving their goals.
• Facilitate peer support groups and community connections to reduce isolation and promote social engagement.

Documentation, Data Collection, and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed and confidential client records, documenting all services provided, referrals, and client progress.
• Collecting registration forms, and other documentation to develop digital client files.
• Ensure accurate data entry into case management systems and program databases.
• Prepare reports and statistical summaries for funders and organizational leadership.

Program Development and Outreach:

• Assist in designing and updating intake tools, needs assessment forms, and resource guides to reflect evolving community needs.
• Participate in outreach initiatives to connect with underserved newcomer populations and raise awareness about settlement services.
• Represent the organization at community events, networking sessions, and stakeholder meetings.

Job Skills and Abilities:

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport across diverse communities.
• Knowledge of immigration and settlement policies in Canada.
• Experience working with trauma-affected individuals using a trauma-informed approach.
• Multilingual abilities, especially in languages spoken by newcomer populations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a high degree of professionalism and integrity.
• Cultural competency and sensitivity to the unique needs of diverse populations.
• Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, problem-solving and time management skills.
• Excellent writing skills to ensure clear, concise, and detailed case notes.
• A passion for helping clients to achieve successful integration into their new community.

Required Education and Experience:

• Diploma or degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Community Development, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in client intake, needs assessment, or settlement services.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations, including survivors of war, violence, or trauma.
• Strong understanding of immigration processes, settlement challenges, systemic barriers and cultural adjustment processes.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care and culturally responsive service delivery.
• In-depth knowledge of Canadian social services, employment standards, housing rights, and health systems.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office, Zoom, client management systems and other digital tools.
• Valid first aid certificate required.
• GBA+ certificate required.
• As a condition of employment, valid vulnerable sector criminal record check to be obtained through CVIMS.
• Valid driver’s license, driver’s abstract and a vehicle are required.

Additional Information:

• Travel within Nanaimo Regional District will be required. Occasional travel to locations in other parts of British Columbia and/or Canada for purposes like professional development, networking, or conferences may also be required.
• Some work outside of regular office hours, including evenings and weekends, will be required. Flex time schedules will be made to accommodate non-regular work hours. All overtime must be approved in advance.
• Fully-funded health/dental benefits and group RRSP available (after 3-month probation for new hires).
• This position is 37.5 hr/week
• Wage scale is $28.50/hr
• Please note, this is a contract position funded through March 31, 2026 with the possibility of extension pending additional funding.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract

Pay: $28.50 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Paid time off
• Vision care

Work Location: In person