Homelessness Outreach Worker

About BC Housing

BC Housing is a provincial Crown Corporation dedicated to developing, managing, and administering subsidized housing solutions across British Columbia. The organization addresses critical housing gaps ranging from emergency shelters to affordable home ownership, supporting vulnerable populations to access safe and accessible living accommodations. Employees benefit from competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth while making a meaningful difference in their communities.

Position Summary

The Homelessness Outreach Worker, reporting to the Coordinated Access and Assessment Manager, will work onsite in Kamloops to engage with people experiencing homelessness or those at risk within the community. This full-time, short-term position (approximately two years) involves assisting individuals in navigating housing systems and support services.

This role requires collaboration with shelters, supportive housing entities, and homelessness agencies as part of a regional multidisciplinary team focused on homelessness and encampment response. Responsibilities include supporting efforts to prevent and resolve outdoor encampments and providing rapid assistance to those sheltering outside.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma along with post-secondary coursework in social housing, community development, mental health, trauma counseling, or related fields. They should possess substantial experience working with populations facing homelessness and poverty, including individuals with physical, psychological, or substance use challenges.

Experience in liaising with a range of housing providers and working effectively with diverse socioeconomic and cultural groups is essential. Crisis intervention and de-escalation skills are important, as is the ability to uphold confidentiality and sensitivity.

Skills and Knowledge

• In-depth understanding of homelessness causes, mental health issues, and addictions.
• Appreciation for cultural and community connections that support well-being and housing stability.
• Familiarity or lived experience with the impacts of residential schools and generational trauma.
• Knowledge of various housing services across government, private, and community sectors.
• Strong communication abilities, both verbal and written, and proficiency with MS Office software.
• Conflict resolution, negotiation, and de-escalation expertise.
• Ability to build trust and partnerships with community stakeholders and individuals facing homelessness.
• Capacity to travel as needed, including working some evenings and weekends, with a valid BC Class 5 driver's license and access to a vehicle.

Additional Information

• Must provide a Tier 4 Criminal Record Check and maintain security clearance throughout employment.
• This role requires physical presence onsite in Kamloops and offers a salary range of $64,991.02 to $75,143.40 annually.
• BC Housing provides wellness programs, training opportunities, recognition initiatives, and a supportive work-life balance culture.
• Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with Indigenous team members to discuss recruitment and workplace environment.
• Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume combined in one document highlighting qualification alignment with the role.
• Applications will only be accepted through the official recruitment system.
• BC Housing is committed to diversity, accessibility, and a barrier-free hiring process. Accommodation requests can be made during recruitment.