Vocational Support Worker at Island Health

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority (Island Health), patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Reporting to the Coordinator or designate, the Vocational Support Worker provides client-centred vocational and life skills support to youth and young adults experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges. Working as part of an interdisciplinary team, the position assists clients to identify employment and educational goals, develop job readiness skills, and access community, education, and employment opportunities. Using a strengths-based and recovery-oriented approach consistent with evidence-informed models such as Individual Placement and Support (IPS), the Vocational Support Worker promotes independence, employability, and community integration.

Travel may be a requirement of this position. If applicable, transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of the Vancouver Island Health Authority in accordance with the service assignment and the incumbent must be able to operate a motor vehicle.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training And Experience

• Diploma in Community Social Services, such as Mental Health Worker or Child and Youth Care, or a related field.
• Two (2) years' recent, related experience working with youth or adults with mental health and/or substance use challenges, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certificates in CPR and First Aid.
• Experience supporting employment readiness, vocational skills or community integration.
• Knowledge of community, education, and employment resources.
• Class 5 BC Driver's License.

Skills And Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to engage and build rapport with youth with complex needs.
• Ability to deliver services with high degree of self-awareness, demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and work within personal and role-specific limits and boundaries.
• Ability to use one's living or lived experience to promote positive connections with youth at differing levels of engagement.
• Ability to teach, motivate and model life and vocational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of and in cooperation with an interdisciplinary team.
• Demonstrated ability to organize workload and manage time.
• Ability to observe, assess, and respond to client needs.
• Broad knowledge of community and employment resources and barriers to employment.
• Conflict resolution, crisis intervention skills and problem-solving skills.
• Advocacy skills.
• Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Ability to operate related equipment, including computer systems.

https://jd.viha.ca/JD6156.pdf