Homelessness Outreach Worker

BC Housing; Penticton; On-site; CAD 64,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

A community housing organization is seeking a Homelessness Outreach Worker in Penticton, B.C. This position involves connecting individuals at risk of homelessness with essential support systems, collaborating with various service providers, and ensuring an integrated response to community homelessness. The role requires a strong understanding of the factors contributing to homelessness and effective communication skills. A comprehensive benefits package is included.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

In-house training opportunities

Wellness programs

Active Social Club

Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty.
• Some experience with crisis management or de-escalation techniques.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience is acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Connect with individuals experiencing homelessness in community locations.
• Assist individuals in navigating housing and support systems.
• Collaborate with shelters and service agencies to ensure integrated support.

Skills

Communication skills

Crisis management

Negotiation skills

Cultural awareness

Conflict resolution

Education

High School diploma plus relevant post-secondary courses

Tools

MS Office tools

Job description

Position Summary

Reporting to the Coordinated Access and Assessment Manager, the Homelessness Outreach Worker connects with people experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless in community locations. He/She/They assists individuals in navigating housing and related support systems, collaborates and partners with shelters, supportive housing providers, and homelessness service agencies to ensure an integrated system of supports, and serves as a core member of the multidisciplinary regional homelessness and encampment response team (HEART). The role supports communities to prevent, minimize and/or resolve encampments and to respond rapidly to individuals sheltering outdoors.

Position Details

Title: Homelessness Outreach Worker | Location: Penticton, B.C | Salary: $64,991.02 – $75,143.40 annually | Employment Type: Regular/Full‑time

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will have the following:

Education & Experience

• High School diploma plus completion of post‑secondary courses in social housing, community development, mental health, trauma counselling, or other relevant discipline.
• Progressive experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty due to physical, mental, or psychological disability, or substance use challenges.
• Experience liaising with government, private, and community‑based housing providers, working with individuals from diverse socio‑economic and cultural backgrounds.
• Some experience with crisis management or de‑escalation techniques.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience acceptable to the employer.
• Tier 4 Criminal Record Check required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Understanding of causal factors of homelessness, mental illness, and/or addiction.
• Awareness of the importance of cultural and community connections in supporting individuals to improve well‑being, exit homelessness and thrive in housing.
• Understanding of the impacts of residential schools, generational trauma, and/or abuse.
• Knowledge of government, private, and community‑based housing service providers.
• De‑escalation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Knowledge of traditional, cultural, and/or holistic wellness and healing initiatives.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in computer applications and software including MS Office tools.
• Ability to empathize with diverse socio‑economic and cultural backgrounds, maintaining confidentiality and sensitivity.
• Ability to partner and engage with a wide array of community partners.
• Ability to develop strong partnerships with service providers and community partners.
• Ability to learn, understand, and update BC Housing mandate, programs, and services.
• Ability to develop and foster trusting relationships with people facing homelessness and multiple barriers.
• Physical ability to travel and work periodic evenings and weekends; valid Class 5 BC driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Successful applicant(s) are subject to a satisfactory criminal record search and must maintain Security Clearance throughout employment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• In‑house and external training opportunities.
• Wellness programs including fitness, smoking cessation, free flu shots, and mental health resources.
• Recognition programs for long‑term service and outstanding performance.
• Livegreen incentives such as an employee transit pass program and other sustainable transportation initiatives.
• Active Social Club and community/charitable event participation.

How to Apply

To be considered, please submit an online application via the BC Housing Careers portal at www.bchousing.org/careers. Provide a cover letter and resume that clearly identify how your experience meets the qualifications listed above. Only applications received through the online system will be accepted. If you require accommodations during the hiring process, contact [e-mail].

EEO Statement

At BC Housing, we celebrate a healthy, safe and inclusive workplace where respect and diversity are recognized assets. We welcome applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous People, people with disabilities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and all individuals committed to meaningful work that makes a difference.

Contact

For more information about the application process, please see the FAQ section on www.bchousing.org/careers. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn for updates.