Social Development Worker

Social Development Worker 
Okanagan Indian Band

K ʷ U K ʷ LIW ̓ T L ̓ NQMAPLQS | WE LIVE AT HEAD OF THE LAKE

Located within the unceded territory of the syilx people, the Okanagan Indian Band is comprised of six reserves located in the North Okanagan.
Come join the OKIB Team and enjoy all that the beautiful Okanagan Valley has to offer, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

The OKIB offers a welcoming team environment and a rewarding job experience. You can expect a supportive work environment and a total compensation package which includes:

• 3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay
• Extended Health and Dental Benefits
• Employer Matched Pension Plan
• Pro-rated Statutory Holidays
• Paid Winter Holiday Break
• Cultural Leave
• Discounted Silver Star lift passes
• Retention Bonuses after years of service
• Pro-rated Paid Sick Days
• Paid Personal Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development Opportunities

Hours of work :                        
37.5 hours per week

Start Date:
ASAP

Deadline for applications :     
August 27, 2026

JOB SUMMARY
The Social Development Worker is responsible for ensuring clients receive adequate services of regular, timely and accurate support payments in adherence to legislation, regulations and policies. To promote and encourage the independence of individuals utilizing the Social Programs of the Okanagan Indian Band. Help establish a foundation of trained individuals that are able to become gainfully employed and/or attend educational programs to build on their skills.

REPORTING STRUCTURE
Reports to the Employment and Social Development Lead.

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Administers and delivers the Income Support Program to ensure the program is delivered in an effective and appropriate manner
• Provide information and assistance on the Income Support Program to ensure that residents are familiar with the program and the criteria for support
• Refer clients to other agencies as appropriate
• Participate in planning of community events concerning education and career development
• Distribute career, educational and employment information
• Conduct needs assessments
• Develop and implement case plans including reviews and evaluations
• Facilitate and participate in case conferencing
• Ensure program budget is followed
• All persons employed by the Okanagan Indian Band may be required to assist the Band in providing emergency services.  Duties assigned during an emergency may differ from regular duties.
• Participate in community events as requested

ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES

• Explain the application process and assist applicants with completing application forms
• Determine eligibility for support
• Interview clients to review histories, goals and needs
• Process applications
• Verify applicant information including family size and current income
• Provide clients with information on education and careers
• Refer both eligible and ineligible clients to other possible resources as appropriate
• Receive distribute and register income support payments
• Maintain ongoing communications with clients
• Follow up with clients on any changes to family size or income
• Data enter information into the Social Assistance System (SAS)
• Meet with clients on a regular basis to review files and circumstances
• Liaise with other OKIB staff to determine partnership opportunities
• Develop and maintain a current, accurate, confidential client case notes and filing system
• Supervise volunteers and delegate responsibilities
• Develops promotional materials to communicate the purpose and accessibility of the Social Assistance program
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the OKIB policies and procedures
• Performs other duties as required

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR
You have education, experience, or an equivalent combination may be considered. You are community-minded, detail-oriented, have a willingness to contribute to a team and an excellent communicator.

Education

• BSDW Certificate or working towards
• Income Assistance program training an asset
• Current First Aid/CPR certificate or willing to obtain
• Valid BC Driver’s licence, Class 5 and reliable vehicle
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Experience

• One to two years in Social Development programs
• Experience managing a budget and financial reporting an asset
• Experience working with First Nations communities
• Experience working with individuals with multiple barriers (health, mental health, trauma etc.)
• Intermediate knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite

Competencies (KSAs & Desired Attributes)

• Possesses cultural appropriateness and sensitivity towards OKIB and Community
• Knowledge of social development, practices and procedures
• Must demonstrate sound judgment particularly in dealing with safety issues and in dealing with aggressive clients and/or clients and children at risk
• Effective interviewing skills
• Proven conflict resolution skills
• Desire to increase capacity through professional development
• Exceptional interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of community services
• Effective verbal and written communication
• Ability to supervise and manage performance
• Ability to listen and demonstrate empathy
• Experience working with confidential information
• Effective stress management skills
• Ability to exercise tact and diplomacy
• Honest, trustworthy and respectful
• Ability to work within a team and individually
• Intermediate level ability with Microsoft Suite

CLASSIFICATION/PAY SCALE
$26.00 - $37.00 per hour dependent upon education and experience.

Please send resume, cover letter and references in any one of two ways:

Email: View email address on civicjobs.ca
Mail or drop off: 12420 Westside Road, Vernon, BC V1H 2A4
If you have accessibility needs, please contact Hollie Lachuk @ View phone number on civicjobs.ca

The successful applicant will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check that includes the vulnerable sector and three references

Preference will be given to qualified Aboriginal Applicants as per section 41 of the Human Rights Code.