Job Description

General Description

The Coordinated Access System, in partnership with community-based housing organizations work with people in our community who have experienced homelessness, are currently homeless or are at risk of homelessness, while also experiencing barriers beyond the current lack of housing. Barriers can include but are not limited to having a mental health issue, having a disability, being part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, being Indigenous, being of African descent, or having a history of homelessness. People may self-refer or may be referred by community partners.

The

Assessment Specialist

is one of the first points of contact between individuals experiencing housing insecurity and the broader Coordinated Access System. This role includes conducting informal and formal vulnerability assessments, updating documentation in various systems and supporting the Coordinated Access Manager in building a robust system. This position is also responsible to provide mobile intake services in partnership with various community partners as well as assessment education, training and evaluation within the geographic areas of Digby to West Hants.

This is a full-time position running from November 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, and continuation is contingent upon funding renewal.

Assessment Responsibilities

Supporting the administration of common assessment tools, ensuring policies, practices and systems related to assessment tools are maintained and updated helping to ensure the accuracy of data. Conduct Vulnerability Assessments utilizing a trauma informed, Housing First approach. Supports ongoing evaluation of the assessment tools, ensuring effective and efficient use. Identifies, coordinates and delivers training of proper use of assessment tools to front-line staff in partner organizations. Supports capacity building of the Coordinated Access System under direction of the Coordinated Access Manager.

Intake and documentation Responsibilities

Informal BNL intake and Common HIFIS Consent. This could be done in person, or over the phone. Identify individual's immediate needs such as food, medical care, or emergency shelter, and facilitate appropriate referrals and triage. Update documentation including BNL and HIFIS. Develop, update and distribute community resource guide for Access Points and community partners. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Education Requirements

Post-secondary education in Social Services or Community Development including university level courses in social service delivery, community relations or similar programs; and/or strong relevant work history in these areas are mandatory. Experience in Discourse Analysis is considered an asset. Motivational Interviewing Training is considered an asset.

Preferred Skills/Competencies

Ability to work well with diverse populations of various socio-economic backgrounds, including those who are marginalized, economically disadvantaged, or living with a disability or mental illness. Initiative, compassion, flexibility, creative decision-making, solid judgement, persuasiveness, community knowledge, and strong boundary-setting skills are considered an asset. Ability to facilitate and build trusting relationships and consensus within a group of community partners. Considerable knowledge of the different types of mental health and/or addiction housing models Ability to advocate for clients and collaborate with multiple community partners. Attention to detail, strong communication and notetaking skills; including active listening and motivational interviewing. Comfortable with a level of ambiguity as the Coordinated Access system is still developing. Comfortable with shifting priorities within the role. Sound knowledge and awareness of Housing First principles. Proficient with Microsoft Office, and ability to learn and adapt to new technologies. OrgCode Trainings: Building Blocks of Service Excellence, Housing-Based Case Management, Impactful Street Outreach and Encampment Response, Excellence in Housing-Focused Shelter Services
??

Additional Notes?

A valid Nova Scotia driver's licences and access to a vehicle is required. Reimbursement for mileage will be made for the use of private vehicle. A cell phone will be provided. Must have access reliable, high-speed internet. Traditional working hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday with the opportunity for a flexible work schedule. A clear criminal record/vulnerable sector check is required. First Aid and CPR Opioid Poisoning Response and Naloxone Training is required.
Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 5 months

Pay: $45,000.00-$50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Dental care Extended health care Life insurance Paid time off Vision care
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Kentville, NS B4N 1H7