The John Howard Society is a not-for-profit organization with approximately 30 employees covered under a single collective agreement.
Position: Record Suspension Caseworker
Position Status: 1.0 - Full-Time – Term position ending March 31, 2027. Term may be extended if funding allows.
Employment Type: In-Scope – Unionized
Position Salary: $26.65
Hours: 37.5 hours/ week. Monday – Friday (8:30 am or 9:00 am – 4:30 pm or 5:00 pm)
Benefits: Generous benefits package after the successful completion of six months of employment
Tentative Start Date: ASAP
POSITION SUMMARY – Record Suspension Caseworker
Reporting to the Executive Director, and in alignment with the mission, values, and principles of the John Howard Society of Manitoba, Inc. (JHSM), the Record Suspension Caseworker is responsible for providing direct support and guidance to men and women aged 18 and older seeking a criminal record suspension. This role involves assisting clients with the application process, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements, and offering case management support to facilitate successful outcomes. Additionally, the Record Suspension Caseworker will actively promote record suspension services within the community and justice system, fostering partnerships with relevant agencies, legal professionals, and support organizations to enhance awareness and accessibility.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - Education and Experience
- Completed (minimum) Grade 12 education with a post-secondary degree or diploma in a related filed, such as social work, psychology or sociology, or a suitable combination of experience and/or training.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, with strong interviewing skills and the ability to complete forms and interpret information for clients.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated capacity to engage diverse individuals.
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment.
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- Experience working with individuals who have been incarcerated, the justice system, or a background in law is an asset.
- Knowledge and sensitivity to Indigenous cultural issues and comfort working with diverse cultures, is an asset.
- Speaking an Indigenous language is also an asset.
- Experience working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds; proficiency in an Indigenous language is an asset.
- A valid Class 5 Manitoba Driver’s License and access to a vehicle during working hours.
- Clearance by Manitoba Justice to access all correctional facilities.
- Must provide an up-to-date Criminal Record Check, including the vulnerable sector search, and Adult Abuse Registry check.
REQUIRED ATTRIBUTES
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, demonstrating clarity, professionalism, and effectiveness in all interactions.
- Experience working with incarcerated individuals or a background in law, criminal justice, or social services.
- Knowledge of the criminal justice system, and community-based mental health and support resources.
- High level of integrity and ethical behavior, maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.
- Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and remain resilient in a high-pressure, emotionally demanding environment.
- Strong organizational and time management abilities, capable of prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines efficiently.
- Consistency and attention to detail in following established processes and performing daily responsibilities.
- Proactive, self-motivated problem solver with a demonstrated ability to anticipate needs and address issues independently.
- High level of confidentiality and discretion when handling sensitive information.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while maintaining autonomy in individual tasks.
- Participate in organizational and program-specific professional development opportunities.
- Establish and maintain strong working relationships with community agencies, legal professionals, and justice system stakeholders to enhance service accessibility.
- Connect clients with JHSM and other community programs or resources that may support their rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.
POSITION BENEFITS
- The Employer contributes to benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and pension.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop an in-depth knowledge of record suspension processes by reviewing information on the Parole Board of Canada website and the JHSM Record Suspension Guide (2016).
- Update the JHSM Record Suspension Guide to reflect the latest policies, procedures, and eligibility requirements, incorporating a user-friendly eligibility checklist for applicant screening.
- Distribute the updated JHSM Record Suspension Guide to partner agencies and encourage them to use the eligibility checklist prior to referring clients.
- Design and distribute informational pamphlets outlining record suspension services to community agencies.
- Organize and facilitate in-person and virtual information sessions to educate community agencies about the record suspension process.
Client Support & Case Management
- Assess client eligibility for a record suspension based on established criteria.
- Provide clear, step-by-step guidance on the record suspension application process, including eligibility requirements and potential outcomes.
- Assist eligible clients in completing all necessary steps for their application, including obtaining supporting documentation and completing required forms.
- Maintain regular communication with clients through in-person meetings, phone calls, and virtual consultations.
- Coordinate with law enforcement agencies, courts, military offices, and community organizations to obtain necessary documentation for the application.
- Accompany clients to fingerprinting appointments or other required processes as needed.
- Guide clients through the submission of their application and payment process.
- Provide ongoing support to clients while awaiting application results and assist with updating the Parole Board of Canada on any changes in their contact information.
- Advise clients who do not meet eligibility requirements or whose applications are rejected on possible next steps.
Data Management & Reporting
- Maintain accurate and confidential client records, including application documents, case progress, updated contact details, and client interactions.
- Collaborate with the program’s researcher/evaluator to collect necessary data for program evaluation and reporting.
- Ensure diligent and consistent completion of forms related to program activities and outcomes.
- Assist in preparing quarterly and annual reports detailing program performance, client success rates, and areas for improvement.
OUR COMMITMENT TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
The John Howard Society of Manitoba is committed to achieving employment equity for designated groups in our workforce.
We encourage all applicants to apply, especially candidates who identify as First Nations, Indigenous, Inuit or Metis, visible minorities or persons with disabilities who meet the required qualifications.
Members of these communities are encouraged to self-declare in their cover letter or resume.
Pay: $26.65 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Vision care
- Wellness program
Work Location: In person
