Employment Facilitator Full Time

Hours: Monday to Friday – 37.5 hours per week

Location: Kelowna. Must be able to commit to working in the office

Position Type: Temporary Full-time

Contract Length: Ends October 8th, 2027

About Canucks Autism Network

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is a charitable organization dedicated to providing programs for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC. Our vision is for every individual on the autism spectrum to be understood, accepted, and supported in all community spaces.

Skills Training Employment Program

The CAN Skills Training Employment Program (CAN-STEP) is funded by the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) Program through the Government of Canada. CAN-STEP is designed to support Autistic youth by providing training and work experience in growing industries. The program is delivered in a group-based cohort model, with a strong focus on providing participants with the skills and certification necessary to achieve employment.

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) is a horizontal Government of Canada initiative led by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and delivered in partnership with 11 federal departments, agencies, and Crown Corporations. Together, these 12 partners deliver funding programs to help Canadian youth (15-30) develop the skills and gain the experience they need to successfully transition into the labour market.

Position Description

Employment Facilitators in the CAN-STEP program will take an integrated approach to provide flexible and holistic services to support Autistic youth and adults ages 15-30 facing barriers to employment. The Employment Facilitator supports participants’ employment readiness by facilitating workshops and supporting job search activities. The Employment Facilitator will report to the Employment Program Manager.

Key Functions

Client Sourcing & Engagement

• Markets CAN-STEP program to prospective candidates through various channels including community presentations, career fairs, organizations that support youth with disabilities
• Evaluates client eligibility to identify client interests, skills, suitability, and job readiness

Facilitation

• Create and facilitate workshops to assist participants in developing strategies to obtain employment. Workshops can focus on but not limited to:
• Essential skills: reading, writing, numeracy
• Employment readiness skills: resume, cover letter, job search, interviewing
• Soft skills: communication, customer service, problem solving, delivering feedback
• Identifies and arranges additional education and certifications such as FoodSafe, First Aid, and SuperHost to align employment aspirations with positions of interest

Client Support

• Provide individualized support to program participants and promote active engagement and learning in the classroom
• General classroom assistance such as supporting participants with assignments
• Provide 1:1 case management to assist participants in their job search and navigate wrap-around supports
• Facilitate peer to peer interaction and socialization when appropriate

Administration

• Conduct CAN-STEP program orientation presentations to participants, staff, and employers
• Complete and maintain records, documentation, and reporting on participants’ progress
• Monitor and follow up with participants on attendance and progress in workshops
• Monitor and maintain records for classroom spending

Qualifications & Experience

• Education in related field such as human resources, disability studies, social services, or a combination of coursework and two or more years of experience in career counselling or adult learning
• Experience supporting Autistic individuals is an asset
• Obtain a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check
• Valid BC Driver’s license and access to a vehicle preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• An understanding of employment barriers Autistic individuals and other vulnerable populations may face
• Knowledge of case management, local labour market issues and trends, educational methodologies, employment placement strategies and management techniques
• Demonstrated ability and passion to establish and maintain positive rapport with a variety of stakeholders including job seekers and employers
• Ability to meet deadlines, manage a varied client load and work under pressure
• Highly proficient with technology, including: Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), web-based research tools, and social media
• Experience in curriculum development, training, teaching or program implementation
• Time management, organizational and leadership skills, with a strong ability to prioritize
• Ability to engage and motivate participants towards achieving their employment goals
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Must be able to travel throughout the Okanagan
• Ability to maintain confidential information

Canucks Autism Network values diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates including Indigenous peoples, individuals of all genders and sexual orientation, race, ethnic origin, disability, age, and religion. We are committed to a fair hiring process and can provide accommodations wherever possible. If you need support to apply or interview for a position, please contact Caitlin, our Supported Employment Specialist, at apply@canucksautism.ca