SPO-CP 24R - High Risk Youth Child Protection Worker (Growth)

Government of British Columbia; Kelowna; Hybrid; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A provincial government agency in Kelowna seeks a High Risk Youth Child Protection Worker to support youth aged 16 and over in complex situations. The role involves liaising with families and service providers to ensure youth access vital resources including housing, education, and health services. Candidates must have a relevant degree and experience working with at-risk youth. The position offers flexible work options and requires a Class 5 BC Driver’s License.

Benefits

Flexible work options

Professional development opportunities

Diverse workplace environment

Qualifications

• Knowledge of the Child, Family and Community Services Act (CFCSA).
• Experience working with high-risk youth and vulnerable populations.
• Understanding of Indigenous services and resources.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for youth safety and access to essential supports.
• Connect youth with housing, education, and health services.
• Collaborate with families and service providers.

Skills

Advocacy for youth with complex needs

Crisis intervention

Collaboration with communities

Building capacity in families

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or Child & Youth Care

Master’s Degree in Educational Counselling Psychology

Registered member in good standing with BC College of Social Workers

Job description

The Team

The Kelowna Youth Response Team leads child protection for youth aged 16 and over, responding to high-risk situations and supporting youth in care and on Youth Agreements. The team collaborates with families, Indigenous communities, and service providers to connect youth with housing, education, employment, and culturally safe supports. With over 30 years of experience, this compassionate and dedicated team works together to keep youth safe and empowered in their communities.

The Role

The High Risk Youth Child Protection Worker advocates for youth with complex needs by ensuring their safety and access to essential supports like housing, education, and health services. The role empowers families by building their capacity to care for their children and supports youth in setting and achieving personal goals—whether they are in care, on a Youth Agreement, or living in the community. This position inspires change, offers meaningful impact, and connects passionate professionals with youth who need strong, compassionate support.

Job Requirements

Applicants may be considered who meet the preferred OR expanded credentials and experience requirements.

Preferred Credentials

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Social Work or in Child & Youth Care OR Master’s Degree in Educational Counselling Psychology/Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology with completion of a practicum in family and child welfare OR
• In-service Ministry of Children and Family Development employees who have a regular SPO 24-30 base position that requires delegation under the Child, Family and Community Services Act (CFCSA) OR
• A candidate may be considered equivalent when they are registered and a member in good standing with the BC College of Social Workers or has a letter from the College confirming that their application for registration has been approved.

NOTE: If this education was obtained outside of Canada, you need to confirm it has been assessed for equivalency through the International Credential Evaluation Services (ICES). You must provide a comprehensive report and the MCFD supplemental report by the closing date of this posting to be considered.

Expanded Credentials

• Bachelor’s Degree in a Human Services field OR Bachelor’s Degree with a Major/Honors in a Human Services field OR Master’s level graduate Certificate/Diploma in a Human Services field AFTER the completion of an unrelated Bachelor’s Degree.
• PLUS, a minimum of one year of related OR job-specific work experience.
• Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.

NOTE: If this education was obtained outside of Canada, you need to confirm it has been assessed for equivalency through the International Credential Evaluation Services (ICES). You must provide a basic report by the closing date of this posting to be considered.

Human Services fields include Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, Anthropology, Early Childhood Education, Indigenous Studies, Education, Theology or Nursing.

Preferences

• Preferred education credentials AND/OR in-service Ministry of Children and Family Development employees who hold a regular SPO 24-30 base position that requires delegation under the Child, Family and Community Services Act (CFCSA)
• Eligible for delegation under the Child, Family and Community Services Act (CFCSA).
• A Child Welfare Specialization from an accredited British Columbia university and who have completed their practicum in a child welfare setting.
• Experience providing service to vulnerable and high-risk youth.
• Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) with the required combination of education and experience.

Applicants may be considered who have not yet graduated but have completed all required courses and are able to provide a letter from their educational institution confirming completion of degree requirements.

Must possess and maintain a valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License with no restriction or equivalent (i.e. from another Canadian Province).

Additional Information

Please refer to the Job Profile located in the additional information section at the bottom of the posting for:

• Salary placement based on education and experience.
• A full list of related work experience.
• Definition of job specific experience.
• Willingness/proviso statements.

Contact

For questions regarding this position, please contact [e-mail]

About this Position

Flexible work options are available; this position may be able to work from home a few days a week subject to an approved telework agreement. An eligibility list may be established for future permanent and temporary opportunities. Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment. Please refer to MyHR for more information on Temporary Market Adjustments. A Criminal Record Check (CRC) and Criminal Record Review Act Check (CRRA) will be required.

Working for the BC Public Service

The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our team and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

The Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is available to applicants that self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, status or non-status, Métis, or Inuit) seeking work or already employed in the BC Public Service. For guidance on applying and interviewing, please contact [e-mail] or 778-405-3452.

How to Apply

Your application must clearly demonstrate how you meet the job requirements list above.

Cover Letter: NO - Please do not submit a cover letter as it will not be reviewed.

Resume: YES - Ensure your resume includes your educational accomplishments, employment history including start and end dates (month and year) of your employment, and any relevant information that relates to the job to which you are applying.

Questionnaire: YES - You will need to complete a standard questionnaire (current employment status, eligibility to apply, etc.).

Find more information on the recruitment process, including helpful tips and videos about the application process, visit the Your Job Application page of MyHR. Gain insights into the hiring journey by joining a Career Conversation. Applications will be accepted until 11:00 pm Pacific Time on the closing date of the competition. If you are experiencing technical difficulty applying, visit the Technical Assistance page of MyHR.