Health Care Worker - Kelowna

John Howard Society of Okanagan & Kootenay; Kelowna; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A supportive health organization in Kelowna is looking for a Health Care Worker to assist clients with their health and daily living needs in a shelter environment. The role involves providing health supports, case management, and ensuring a safe and respectful atmosphere for individuals facing health and mental health challenges. Candidates should have a degree in Health Care Aide or related fields, strong communication skills, and experience in similar settings. This position offers a team-oriented workplace and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Extended health and dental benefits

RRSP matching

3 weeks vacation

Additional personal time off with pay

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience providing direct client support, ideally within housing, shelter, or community‑based settings.
• Experience supporting individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges.

Responsibilities

• Assist clients with hygiene and activities of daily living.
• Provide minor wound care and monitor client health and safety.
• Conduct client intakes and support health-related goals.
• Complete accurate documentation related to client care.

Skills

Person-centered care

Excellent communication skills

Critical thinking

Relationship-building

Education

Degree or diploma in Health Care Aide or Human Service Work

Job description

Position Overview

The Health Care Worker is a vital member of the Housing Services team, supporting clients to manage their health and daily living needs in supportive housing and shelter environments. This role delivers hands‑on health supports, case management, and client-centered interventions that promote safety, dignity, and independence. Working with the Health Care Coordinator, Housing Managers, and front‑line staff, join a compassionate, collaborative team committed to meeting people where they’re at. Your skills, empathy, and dedication will all help create safer, healthier spaces for our community.

Overall, this role contributes to a safe, respectful, and empowering environment for individuals experiencing complex health, mental health, and substance use challenges.

Major Responsibilities

Health Supports & Daily Living

• Assist clients with hygiene and daily living activities, prioritizing safety and dignity.
• Provide minor wound care and administer medications as required.
• Monitor client health, behavior, and safety concerns; respond to and manage health emergencies.
• Oversee overdose prevention services and administer Naloxone when required.
• Support housekeeping activities that maintain safe and healthy living environments.

Case Planning & Client Support

• Conduct client intakes and discharges related to health case management.
• Support clients in setting and working toward health‑related goals.
• Coordinate and support access to medical appointments, transportation, and community services.
• Liaise with internal teams and external health care providers to support continuity of care.
• Promote client independence and life skills development.

Documentation & Administration

• Complete accurate, timely documentation related to client care, interventions, and health & safety.
• Maintain records for reporting and program evaluation.
• Communicate relevant updates to the Health Care Coordinator and Housing Manager.

Health & Safety

• Follow all safety protocols and respond to emergent health and safety matters.
• Report concerns promptly and model safe work practices at all times.

Other duties as assigned.

What We Offer

• A supportive, caring, work environment with a focus on investing in our staff.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Extended health and dental benefits
• RRSP matching
• 3 weeks vacation
• Additional personal time off with pay.

Acknowledgement

The John Howard Society of Okanagan & Kootenay is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will have the opportunity to be considered for employment without regard to their race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only shortlisted candidates and those eligible to work in Canada will be contacted.

Education & Experience

• Degree or diploma from a recognized Health Care Aide, Human Service Work program, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1–3 years of experience providing direct client support, ideally within housing, shelter, or community‑based settings.
• Experience supporting individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong commitment to person‑centered, trauma‑informed care.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Critical thinking, problem‑solving, and sound judgment in dynamic environments.
• Ability to maintain professionalism, boundaries, and confidentiality.
• Strong engagement and relationship‑building skills with diverse populations.

Conditions of Employment

• Clear Criminal Record Check (Vulnerable Sector).
• Valid First Aid with CPR.
• Class 5 driver’s license, clean driver’s abstract, liability insurance, and access to a vehicle.
• Ability to work in environments where pets may be present.
• Willingness to work flexible hours as required.