Victim Services Navigator (Temporary, 50% part-time)

Competition # : 45802

Department: Justice

Location: HALIFAX

Type of Employment: Temporary

Union Status: NSGEU - NSPG

Closing Date: 28-Apr-25 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)

About Us

The Maintenance Enforcement and Victim Services Division of the Department of Justice helps facilitate court ordered child and spousal support and offers a range of services to help victims of crime.

About Our Opportunity

The Victim Services Navigator is responsible for delivering the Provincial Victim Services Program, in accordance with the rights of victims of crime as outlined in the Victim’s Rights and Services Act, the Criminal Code of Canada and the victim-related provisions of other federal and provincial statutes, including the Victim Bill of Rights.

As our Victim Services Navigator, you will provide information and support services directly to victims of crime, and act as a liaison between the victim and justice personnel such as police and Crown Attorneys. This work can include Court preparation sessions, Court accompaniment and assisting victims to access Criminal Injuries Counselling or to prepare and submit Victim Impact Statements to the Court.

Primary Accountabilities

You will maintain a caseload of highly sensitive files and provide support to help meet clients' needs and provide referrals to specialists as needed. You will ensure the clients are provided information regarding the criminal justice system/process and assist in submitting documents.

You will liaise with Crown, Police, Correctional Services and community organizations in the development, delivery, coordination, and enhancement of services.

You will ensure the confidentiality of client information is maintained and that it is accurately entered into the Victim Services case management system.

Qualifications and Experience

You possess a Bachelor’s degree (typically in the Social Sciences) and three years of related experience. An equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered. Related experience includes (but is not limited to) providing client services in the community.

In this role, you are required to have experience in client assessment and interviewing techniques, as well as case management and computer skills. Your knowledge of the criminal justice system and community resources, the Victims’ Rights and Services Act, the Criminal Code of Canada, and the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights is essential.

Our successful candidate will have excellent oral and written communication skills, good organizational ability and strong interpersonal skills including the ability to work as part of a team. You will demonstrate empathy, warmth and tact along with an in-depth understanding of human dynamics and the effects of victimization.

Access to reliable transportation is required as you will be responsible for multiple court locations in your coverage area.

The ability to speak French would be considered an asset.

Equivalency

• A Bachelor’s degree in a related field and a Master’s degree in a related field and one year of related experience
• A two-year certificate/diploma in a related field plus five years of related experience
• A one-year certificate/diploma in a related field plus six years of related experience
• Seven years of experience working in a related field with no formal training

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

Working Conditions

• May be required to work overtime on occasion
• Stressful work environment given extensive exposure to high emotional issues and dealing with clients in crisis
• Sitting at a computer for long periods of time
• Mentally challenging due to a high demand for accuracy and attention to detail with a high volume of work
• Potential for both physical and non-physical violence from hostile clients and offenders
• Possible exposure to domestic disturbances and aggressive attitudes towards government officials
• Travel is required to attend meetings and offer services in courts and clients’ communities

What We Offer

• Career development with access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training.
• Engaging workplace where employees feel valued and respected.
• Countless career paths.

Pay Grade: PR 12

Salary Range: $2,458.24- $2,982.67 Bi-Weekly

Employment Equity Statement: Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the citizens we serve. The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from under-represented groups.

This is a bargaining unit position initially restricted to current civil service employees represented by the Nova Scotia Government Employees Union (NSGEU).

Offer of employment is conditional upon the completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials, the results of which must be satisfactory to the employer. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.