About Us

At the Department of Community Services (DCS), we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing, Employment Support (ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support (DSP).

Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure. We work collaboratively across the province with a strong dedicated network of supports and staff, to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all.

About Our Opportunity

As the Casework Supervisor you will provide direction to field staff in the delivery of the Employment Support and Income Assistance (ESIA) program. This includes monitoring of program expenditures and reviewing case management practices in accordance with department policies, procedures, and directives. You will actively deal with challenging and complex ESS (Employment Support Services) and IA (Income Assistance) cases to ensure a high level of professional quality client service.

Primary Accountabilities

In this role, a key responsibility of yours will be to foster team building with a regional and cross program perspective; providing effective leadership within a fast-paced multi-service environment and ensuring a high level of individual and team performance. Daily, you are responsible for overseeing the delivery of ESIA program, staff scheduling, office operations, caseworkers, as well as the completion of staff evaluations which support career and professional development.

You will be involved in various interdepartmental and community committees, all the while identifying and providing comprehensive services to clients. You are responsible for ensuring that the Department is represented in appeals processes, and that decision reviews and appeals are held as per established deadlines. You are expected to have a working knowledge of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPOP) and a clear understanding of the Release of Personal Information guidelines. Your input is valuable to us as you work closely with management and colleagues to assist in the development, implementation and maintenance of new policies, procedures, and initiatives.

Qualifications and Experience

You will have a bachelor’s degree (Social Science) plus seven (7) years of related experience working with persons in receipt of social assistance. A thorough knowledge of Employment Support and Income Assistance policy is required.

Demonstrated management skills and supervisory experience, along with knowledge of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPOP) is also required.

You have proven effective communication, interpersonal and organizational skills. The ability to work with sensitivity from the diverse perspectives of individual clients and community service providers, while meeting the objectives and targets of the department, is essential. Experience fostering a supportive learning environment and the ability to work closely with management to promote staff development is critical to your success.

Computer proficiency, financial management skills, knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety Legislation, NSCDA Certification and knowledge of career/employment counseling are considered assets.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

An equivalent combination of training, education and experience will be considered. Related equivalencies may include, but are not limited to:

• Completion of a related two (2) year diploma and nine (9) years of experience

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and Union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offering and eligibility criteria.

Working Conditions

Work is typically located in an office setting with frequent contact with clients by email, phone, or in person, who may be upset with a decision or service. Travel will be required throughout the province to attend meetings and departmental activities.

Additional Information

Two (2) opportunities are available: one (1) permanent and one (1) is a Temporary opportunity with an anticipated end date of December 20, 2023. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

Travel is component of this position. As such, you must have a valid Driver’s license and the ability to travel.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless career paths.
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.