Program Assistant

Description:

The Salvation Army in Canada is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Program Assistant (Weekdays) to support the operations of its Supportive Housing Program in Fort St. John, BC. The role primarily focuses on providing assistance, ensuring tenant well-being, maintaining a safe and respectful environment, and offering front-line support in accordance with the organization’s mission and values.

The successful candidate will serve as the main point of contact for tenants, handling inquiries and concerns, maintaining accurate records, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to provide comprehensive support services.

Key Responsibilities

Tenant and Program Support

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all tenants in the supportive housing program.

• Handle tenant inquiries, complaints, and concerns with professionalism and empathy.

• Conduct wellness checks as required and ensure a supportive and safe living environment.

• Demonstrate empathy, respect, and understanding towards all residents.

• Provide moral, practical, and emotional support to tenants as needed.

• Answer departmental phone calls, take accurate messages, and manage daily communications.

Documentation and Communication

• Maintain logbooks and complete daily reports and incident documentation accurately.

• Record daily operations, interactions, and relevant occurrences to ensure effective continuity.

• Liaise with external agencies and referral sources as necessary, arranging appropriate referrals for tenants.

Safety and Policy Adherence

• Monitor compliance with organizational policies and ensure safety and security at all times.

• Respond promptly to emergencies and follow established procedures for crisis situations.

• Perform additional duties as assigned to uphold the program’s safety and operational integrity.

Working Conditions

• Work performed in a supportive housing facility operating 24 hours a day.

• May require lifting or moving items up to 30 lbs without assistance.

• Exposure to challenging conditions such as odors, verbal abuse, monotony, isolation, or encounters with individuals under the influence of substances.

• Potential exposure to bodily fluids, infectious diseases, or sharp objects.

• Role requires attentiveness, emotional resilience, and the ability to manage stressful or unpredictable situations effectively.

• Minimal to no travel is required.

Reporting Structure

• Reports to: Program Supervisor

• Direct Reports: None

• May guide or assist other staff and volunteers in performing routine tasks.

Qualifications and Skills

Education

• Minimum Grade 12 education (or equivalent) required.

• Completion of a 2-year Community College program in Social Services, Human Services, or a related field is considered a strong asset.

• Valid Criminal Record Check required.

• CPR, First Aid, and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training are desirable.

• Basic computer literacy required.

Experience

• Up to 1 year of related experience, ideally in a front-line social service environment.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Strong service orientation and ability to interact with diverse individuals.

• Adaptability to change, multitasking, and handling frequent interruptions.

• Effective problem-solving and organizational skills.

• Compassionate, respectful, and team-oriented personality.

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly Rate: CAD 19.23 – 19.61 (up to CAD 19.98 maximum).

• Placement within the salary range depends on experience, skills, and qualifications.

• Compensation and working terms follow the Collective Agreement guidelines.

• Reasonable accommodations are available upon request to support accessibility and inclusion.

About The Salvation Army

For over 130 years, The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda has been dedicated to serving individuals and families in need, rooted in its mission to share the love of Jesus Christ and transform lives through compassion and service. Assisting over 2 million people annually, the organization provides food, shelter, employment support, and other essential services to those facing hardship.

The Salvation Army fosters an inclusive workplace where individuals of all backgrounds are welcome and supported in living out its core values: Hope, Service, Dignity, and Stewardship.