Search Homelessness Services Association of BC

Job Description / Duties

Main Purpose and Function

This position is responsible for coordinating the development and implementation of emergency shelters and warming centres, supervision of Warming Centres Coordinator and related seasonal hiring as well as other related initiatives and projects to improve conditions for individuals experiencing homelessness.

The position reports to the Director, Homelessness Services with direct supervision to the Senior Planner, Homelessness Services. The position supervises the Warming Centre Coordinator, supports onboarding and training of warming centre staff, as well as oversees the work of consultants and other junior staff. The position works across City departments, as well as external private and non-profit organizations, and senior government ministries such as BC Housing, Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, and Vancouver Coastal Health. The position liaises with community and non-profit organizations including homelessness service providers, community advocates, Homeless Outreach teams, Community Policing teams and other stakeholders responding to and addressing issues related to the causes of and solutions to homelessness. The position also works with Provincial and Federal representatives to collaborate on regional and province wide initiatives to address homelessness. The position participates in relevant committees and homelessness planning and coordinating bodies.

Specific Duties/Responsibilities

Collaborates with a wide range of internal departments (e.g. Planning and Development Services, Real Estate Services, Law, Finance, Social Policy, Parks, License and Inspections and Engineering) and external stakeholders, such as community organizations, businesses, residents, property owners, non-profit housing and homelessness service providers, senior government representatives, and developers on issues and responses related to homelessness.
Provides input, implements and updates City policies related to addressing homelessness in upcoming/ongoing community and city-wide planning work
Participates in internal and external committees and plays an important community liaison role;
Participates in activities to increase understanding of and response of the causes and solutions to homelessness and to reduce the stigmatization of homelessness;
Supervises staff and prepares and oversees contracts with consultants to support the delivery of projects and initiatives to meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness;
Prepares reports and presentations, including complex Council reports; presenting complex material to staff, senior management, the public and City Council;
Identifies and secures sites including securing leases, working internally to secure permits, seeking approval for funding, negotiating operating agreements with senior levels of government; and other funders;
Facilitates community engagement and maintains stakeholder relations
Develops and leads collaborative and robust approaches to engagement and communication with internal and external partners and the public in a sometimes contentious environment;
Provide leadership to community and neighbourhood groups to develop and implement responses to homelessness and to address the needs of those at risk of homelessness.
Recommends services and practices that impact solutions to emergent issues related to homelessness.
Oversees research initiatives and advises on relevant policies including policies implemented in collaboration with other jurisdictions.
Other duties/responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications / Required Skills

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Education and Experience:
A University degree in Planning or related studies, preferably a Master's level, combined with considerable experience in, and commitment to, addressing homelessness preferably supplemented by supervisory experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Extensive knowledge of current housing and homelessness policies of the City of Vancouver and other levels of government.
Thorough knowledge of the theory, practice and objectives of social planning
Considerable knowledge of social, economic, political, technological, demographic and environmental trends, factors and issues related to homelessness.
Considerable knowledge of key system, structural and individual factors affecting homelessness
Considerable knowledge of project management philosophies and practices, including project scope, budgeting, scheduling, and coordination of team activities
Understanding of the City’s permitting and regulatory process would be helpful.
Ability to manage complex projects that span multiple departments, issues and/or stakeholders
Ability to supervise staff and consultants for the successful implementation of projects.
Ability to adjust to a complex organizational structure with shifting priorities on highly politicized issues
Strong communication skills (oral and written), including the ability to clearly articulate complex planning information to a variety of internal and external stakeholders
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other staff, professionals and the public
Ability to perform planning research and assess option feasibility through financial and social policy analysis
Able to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic work environment.
Strong interpersonal and conflict management skills
Ability to deal with sensitive issues with diplomacy and tact
Ability to use spreadsheet, presentation and database software
Ability to develop and lead public and stakeholder consultation and engagement processes
Ability to work well under pressure, handle multiple tasks and changing priorities within tight timeframes and with limited supervision and direction
Ability to reconcile differing perspectives, develop consensus, negotiate compromises and secure support from a wide range of internal and external stakeholders
Ability to lead or facilitate meetings, groups and teams, including controversial subjects
Ability to meet transportation needs

Requirements

A Police Record Check is a requirement of this position. A clearance requires the absence of any criminal charges or convictions related to this position.

The City’s COVID-19 vaccination policy is currently suspended and as a result, vaccination against COVID-19 is not required at this time. However, should circumstances change and the City deem it necessary to re-introduce such policy, you may be required to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to be eligible to continue performing your duties.

Business Unit/Department: Arts, Culture and Community Services
Affiliation: CUPE 15 Non parks
Employment Type: Regular Full Time
Position Start Date: June 2023

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-029 $47.57 - $56.25 per hour

Application Close: May 21, 2023

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous applicants, people of colour, all genders, 2SLGBTQ+ and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Apply here: https://jobs.vancouver.ca/job/Vancouver-Social-Planner-II-Shelter-Strategy-Coordinator-Brit-V6A-4K6/1028092400/

XOnce you start your application you can save your work and leave the applications page, however please remember to submit your profile to the specific job requisition before the posting closing date.

In addition to uploading your cover letter and resume, part of the application process may include answering application questions related to the preferred requirements of the role which may take approx. 5-10mins. Cover letters should express interest and highlight additional information relevant to the position and resumes should include a tailored summary of skills and experience related to the position.

Salary: Pay Grade GR-029 $47.57 - $56.25 per hour

Contact Information

https://jobs.vancouver.ca/job/Vancouver-Social-Planner-II-Shelter-Strategy-Coordinator-Brit-V6A-4K6/1028092400/

Employer Profile

Organization Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities and is working towards being the greenest city in the world. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, decolonization, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents. Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.