Employment Specialist in Surrey, British Columbia at Options Community Services

Options Community Services is a non-profit organization dedicated to delivering social services across the Southern Fraser region (Surrey, Delta, White Rock and Langley) from early childhood to seniors. Our comprehensive range of programs and services relies on collaborative relationships with individuals, businesses, community groups and government bodies to create focused, effective and responsive resources for the community.

Empower change where it matters most. BC NSP is hiring an Employment Specialist to support refugee claimants on their journey toward stability and independence. If you’re driven to make a difference and skilled in employment counselling, this is your opportunity to help newcomers overcome barriers and thrive in their new communities.

Reporting to the Program Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for assessing client eligibility and employment readiness, providing individualized and group-based support, and facilitating access to community employment resources. Key responsibilities include conducting needs assessments, offering career counselling, delivering job search training, and facilitating labour market orientation—all while staying informed on current employment trends. The role requires close collaboration with Case Managers, WorkBC, and other service providers to ensure coordinated, wraparound support. The Employment Specialist will also liaise with employers, develop volunteer opportunities, assist clients in navigating immigration and workplace systems, and contribute to program evaluation, resource development, and community engagement initiatives.

The ideal candidate will have post-secondary education or a combination of relevant education and experience in settlement services, with preference given to those holding CCDP certification. Experience working with refugee claimants, asylum seekers, newcomers, vulnerable populations, or volunteers is essential. A strong understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by refugee claimants is required. A Class 5 driver’s license with access to a reliable vehicle is considered an asset.

In addition to strong English proficiency, the candidate should possess additional language skills relevant to the client population. Proficiency in Punjabi, Hindi, or Spanish is considered an asset. They must demonstrate a solid understanding of social services, multiculturalism, and the issues impacting immigrants and refugees. Key skills include active listening, empathy, counselling, group facilitation, and accurate record-keeping. Familiarity with community resources, the Canadian legal system, and public policy related to refugee populations is essential. The role also demands strong communication, intercultural competence, crisis intervention, and advanced computer skills. The successful candidate will be able to work independently in a fast-paced, diverse environment, demonstrate flexibility, uphold strong work ethics, and maintain a deep respect for cultural and lifestyle diversity.

This role requires the incumbent to undergo a Police Information Check (PIC), and a Vulnerable Sector Check by the Ministry of Justice.

If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please submit your RESUME and COVER LETTER through the “APPLY” button.

We thank all applicants for their interest in working with OCS. Due to the volume of applicants, only those qualified and shortlisted will be contacted.

The land which we are on is the unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples including Kwantlen, Katzie, Matsqui, Musqueam, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen, Kwikwetlem and the Sto:lo Nations.