About Company
Making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable newcomers – that’s the core mission driving every Refugee Support Worker at Hiring.zycto. We are a compassionate organization committed to providing immediate and long-term assistance to refugees seeking safety and new beginnings in Canada. Our team thrives on collaborative problem-solving, cultural sensitivity, and unwavering dedication. Joining us means becoming part of a supportive community where your empathy and expertise will directly shape brighter futures. We foster a culture of growth, resilience, and profound impact, making Hiring.zycto an ideal place for those passionate about social justice and humanitarian efforts.
Job Description
Hiring.zycto is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Refugee Support Worker for a contract position in Toronto. This pivotal role involves providing essential front-line support to refugees and asylum seekers, helping them navigate the complexities of resettlement and integration into Canadian society. You will be a crucial point of contact, offering practical assistance, emotional support, and vital information to individuals and families during a challenging period of transition. The work is fast-paced and dynamic, requiring exceptional adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and a robust understanding of refugee experiences and needs.
Your day-to-day will involve a diverse range of tasks, from initial intake and needs assessments to connecting clients with housing, legal aid, healthcare, education, and employment resources. You will advocate on behalf of clients, facilitate access to community services, and provide guidance on Canadian social systems and cultural norms. This role demands not only professional expertise but also immense empathy and resilience, as you will be working with individuals who have experienced significant trauma and displacement. The ideal candidate will be a proactive problem-solver, an excellent communicator, and possess a deep commitment to upholding human rights and fostering dignity. You will contribute directly to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for newcomers, empowering them to rebuild their lives and contribute to their new communities. This contract offers a unique opportunity to make a profound, tangible impact in the lives of those most in need, directly supporting Toronto’s vibrant multicultural fabric.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct initial intake interviews and comprehensive needs assessments for newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers.
- Provide crisis intervention and emotional support, referring clients to specialized mental health services as appropriate.
- Assist clients in accessing essential services including temporary housing, food security, healthcare, legal aid, and income support programs.
- Offer guidance and support through the refugee claim process, connecting clients with legal representation.
- Facilitate integration by providing information on Canadian culture, education, employment pathways, and community resources.
- Advocate on behalf of clients with various government agencies, service providers, and landlords.
- Maintain accurate and confidential client records, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and privacy regulations.
- Collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners to ensure seamless service delivery.
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development relevant to refugee support and resettlement.
- Identify emerging needs and contribute to program development and improvement initiatives.
Required Skills
- Minimum 2 years of experience in social work, settlement services, or a related field, specifically with refugee or immigrant populations.
- Demonstrated knowledge of the Canadian refugee system, immigration policies, and resettlement processes.
- Exceptional interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills, with proficiency in active listening and empathetic engagement.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a diverse caseload effectively under pressure.
- Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and client management databases.
- Fluency in English; proficiency in additional languages relevant to refugee populations (e.g., Arabic, Dari, Tigrinya, Ukrainian, French) is a significant asset.
- Crisis intervention and conflict resolution skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Social Work, International Development, Humanitarian Studies, or a related discipline.
- Experience working with vulnerable populations who have experienced trauma.
- Knowledge of local Toronto community resources and support networks for newcomers.
- Valid G class driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle (asset, but not required for all roles).
- Certification in First Aid and CPR.
Perks & Benefits
- Opportunity to make a direct and profound impact on individuals' lives.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment focused on humanitarian aid.
- Professional development and training opportunities in a specialized field.
- Competitive hourly wage for contract work.
- Meaningful work in a diverse and multicultural setting.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and passion for refugee support. Please ensure your application highlights your linguistic capabilities and experience working with diverse populations. Click the link below to apply for this impactful position.
