Reports To
Manager of Member Services
Saulteau First Nations Mission
We strive to be the Best Governed Nation, one that is proud, culturally strong, and self-sufficient. As stewards of the land, we will ensure that the best sustainable practices are followed, now and in the future. We remain proudly determined.
Job Purpose
The Band Social Development Worker administers the On-Reserve Income Assistance Program under Indigenous Services Canada for Saulteau First Nations (SFN) members. This role contributes to the betterment and well-being of SFN members by enabling access to social assistance services.
Duties and Responsibilities
Program Administration
- Administers and provides income and disability assistance and benefits to eligible on-reserve members, ensuring recipients receive the necessary support to reach financial sustainability and maintain a basic standard of living.
- Assists members, documenting and verifying relevant information, in the completion of their application for benefits to meet their needs.
- Ensures applicants are fully informed about their responsibilities and rights under the program and the appeal process.
- Assists the applicant to explore plans for achieving financial self-sufficiency and resuming primary responsibility for their own affairs.
- Works closely with the Finance Department for processing of Social Assistance payments and invoicing for amounts owing.
- Works cooperatively with other Health and Social programs to promote education, training and employment opportunities which may provide alternative methods for self-sufficiency outside of social assistance.
- Builds trust and fosters relationships while supporting clients and providing information on Social Services programs, as well as life skills coaching, as necessary.
- Ensures the Social Assistance Policy Manual (SAPM), regulations and policies are administered, enforced and followed; adheres to established policies and procedures and uses independent judgment in resolving difficult issues.
- Administers the Child Out of Parental Home and Special Needs programs in accordance with program policies.
- Monitors and manages expenditures and budgets for the various programs administered by the Social Development office and provides monthly reporting and status updates to the Manager of Member Services.
- Refers applicants requiring other health, social or training services to appropriate agencies.
- Resolves conflict situations that clients may have, keeping the Manager informed of any irregularities that may occur.
- If a child needs protection, refers the case to the MCFD centralized screening requirement.
Other Related Duties
- Protects the applicant's right to confidentiality and maintains a confidential file on each applicant which includes case records, and all completed forms.
- Maintains sound administrative practices and compiles monthly caseload statistical reports and information according to the SAPM and funding agreement.
- Provides orientation to newly elected Chief and Council on the Social Development program.
- Administers benefits within the community in accordance with the Social Assistance Policy Manual (SAPM).
- Establishes and maintains sound working relationships with colleagues, Indigenous Services Canada, and other agencies to participate in case discussions and to work towards the alleviation of community social problems.
- Coordinates with Family Support on the Christmas Hamper Project as required.
Required Qualifications and Certifications
- Minimum 2-year post-secondary education or a degree in Social Work, Human Services or Counselling, and/or an acceptable combination of education, training and experience working in social programs.
- Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License.
- Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Search acceptable to SFN
Required Knowledge, Skill and Ability
- Social work experience in vulnerable sectors would be considered desirable: child services, alcohol and drug services, social assistance, home care, or counselling.
- Experience working with budgets and managing financial reporting is an asset.
- Knowledge of Saulteau First Nation culture and traditions.
- Awareness and understanding of the impact from trauma and inter-generational trauma resulting from colonial policies.
- Ability to respond to problematic behavior using an understanding of the behavior’s context and function.
- Knowledge of Federal and local government agencies that deal with Social Programs.
- Ability to assist in problem solving a variety of client issues and conflict situations.
- Strong community engagement skills and the ability to build partnerships.
- Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
- Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to respond to multiple demands, resolve conflicts, and solve problems in a professional manner; demonstrates understanding, friendliness, courtesy, tact, empathy, and respect to others.
Work Conditions
- High level of stress may be encountered dealing with a diverse variety of clients, and critical and sensitive situations.
- Work is performed primarily in the office Monday to Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Overtime hours to be pre-approved by immediate supervisor.
- Travel may be required within SFN community and surrounding community.
Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals.
