Employment Specialist
Job Search Support Services
Location: Victoria, Courtenay, or Nanaimo, BC
(Hybrid service delivery model: virtual and in-person)
Employment Type: Contractor or Employee
Hours: Flexible Schedule (Minimum 22.5 hours per week)
Compensation: $31.00 - $34.50 per hour
Reports To: Director, Employment Services
Make a Meaningful Difference
We are seeking a dedicated and results-driven Employment Specialist to support individuals in successfully returning to meaningful and sustainable employment following illness or injury. Working closely with WorkSafeBC, Canada Life, employers, and vocational rehabilitation professionals, you will provide individualized employment services that empower clients to achieve their vocational goals and regain confidence in the workforce.
This role offers the flexibility of a hybrid work environment while providing opportunities to build strong relationships within local communities throughout Vancouver Island.
About the Role
Reporting to the Director of Employment Services, the Employment Specialist delivers individualized job search and vocational rehabilitation services to clients referred through WorkSafeBC and Canada Life programs.
You will work one-on-one with clients to develop customized return-to-work strategies, provide job search coaching, facilitate employer connections, and support successful employment outcomes. The ultimate goal is to help clients secure employment that is suitable, accessible, sustainable, and aligned with their skills, abilities, and earning potential.
Key Responsibilities
Client Assessment & Vocational Planning
- Conduct intake interviews to understand client goals, capabilities, barriers, and employment history.
- Build rapport and establish a collaborative working relationship with clients.
- Develop individualized Job Search Strategies and Comprehensive Vocational Rehabilitation Plans.
- Identify return-to-work goals based on vocational profiles, functional abilities, labor market opportunities, and earning capacity.
- Establish clear expectations, responsibilities, and accountability measures with clients.
Job Search & Employment Support
- Provide individualized job placement services and employment coaching.
- Assist clients with:
- Resume and cover letter development
- Interview preparation
- Job search strategies
- Labour market research and analysis
- Transferable skills identification
- Accessing the hidden job market
- Motivate, guide, and support clients throughout their job search journey.
- Monitor progress and provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and encouragement.
Employer Engagement & Job Development
- Develop relationships with employers to identify suitable employment opportunities.
- Market candidates directly to prospective employers.
- Facilitate employer meetings and employment discussions.
- Assist clients with job applications, employment negotiations, job coaching, and on-site support.
- Promote WorkSafeBC's Hire-a-Worker program and other available employment incentives.
- Provide follow-up support to ensure successful and sustained employment outcomes.
Collaboration & Reporting
- Collaborate closely with WorkSafeBC Vocational Rehabilitation Consultants and other stakeholders.
- Coordinate services and resources required to support successful return-to-work outcomes.
- Prepare and submit professional intake, progress, monthly, and final reports.
- Maintain accurate case documentation and service records.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- Minimum 2 years of directly related experience in:
- Job placement services
- Resume and cover letter development
- Job search coaching
- Vocational rehabilitation or employment services
- Experience working with diverse client populations and stakeholders.
- Strong understanding of disabilities, injuries, return-to-work principles, and labour market trends.
- Ability to travel within the service region and maintain regular access to a reliable vehicle.
Education
-
Bachelor's degree in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Professional Designations (Preferred)
One or more of the following credentials is considered an asset:
- Registered Rehabilitation Professional (RRP)
- Certified Vocational Professional (CVP)
- Master's Certificate Vocational Professional (MCVP)
- Canadian Certified Rehabilitation Counsellor (CRC/CCRC)
- Other related vocational rehabilitation or career development designations may be considered
Skills & Competencies
Required
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong case management and direct client service abilities.
- Effective report writing and documentation skills.
- Proven job development and employment placement expertise.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and work independently.
- Client-centered approach with a positive, motivational coaching style.
- Flexibility to adapt schedules based on client and employer needs.
- Results-oriented mindset focused on achieving employment outcomes.
Preferred
- Experience supporting individuals with:
- Physical disabilities
- Neurological conditions
- Cognitive impairments
- Mental health challenges
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.
Why Join Us?
- Flexible hybrid work environment
- Meaningful work that changes lives
- Opportunity to collaborate with rehabilitation and employment professionals
- Independence and flexibility in service delivery
- Competitive compensation
- Diverse and rewarding caseload
Apply Today
If you are passionate about helping individuals overcome barriers to employment and are committed to delivering exceptional vocational rehabilitation and job placement services, we encourage you to apply.
Join us in empowering people to return to work with confidence and build a stronger future.
