Bilingual Information and Referral Specialist (FT Contract)

YMCA of the National Capital Region • Ottawa, ON

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of the National Capital Region is seeking a Bilingual Information and Referral Specialist for a full-time contract position ending May 31, 2027. This role involves providing newcomer clients with accurate information and referrals on immigration, settlement, and community resources. The specialist will conduct needs assessments, assist clients in accessing services, and perform reception duties including answering phones and emails, triaging clients, and administrative tasks. The position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of responsibility, honesty, caring, respect, and inclusion. The YMCA is a charity dedicated to helping Canadians improve their lives and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Requirements

• Post-secondary education or equivalent in a related field
• Fluent in both English and French, oral and written
• Knowledge of immigrant settlement services and programs offered for Newcomers to Canada
• Previous work experience in a multicultural environment
• Strong computer skills including MS Office suite, online research, data entry, social media
• Excellent organizational skills and detail-oriented
• Strong customer service skills
• Superior problem-solving skills and demonstrated good judgment
• Proven sensitivity in working with the needs of immigrants from diverse cultural backgrounds
• Ability to assess the information needs of clients served
• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required.
• Annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Nice To Haves

• Other languages are an asset

Responsibilities

• Provide newcomer clients with accurate information and appropriate referrals on matters related to immigration, settlement, and community resources on a drop-in basis.
• Perform duties of needs assessment and orientation; determining the needs of Newcomers and referring them to internal and/or external programs to best assist them.
• Perform reception duties including answering phones and emails, triaging and directing clients to appropriate services/peoples.
• Perform administrative and data entry duties.
• Conducting needs assessments and providing referrals to appropriate services and resources as identified.
• Assisting clients in accessing information and services that best meet their needs.
• Providing relevant information to enable Newcomers to access the desired services and programs.
• Responding to each client in a professional and culturally appropriate manner.
• Collecting, tracking and reporting statistical data reflecting services provided.
• Delivering quality-based, client-directed, neutral referral services.
• Applying the Privacy Policy throughout all data collection and all record management.
• Coordinating community events as required.
• Delivering orientation sessions and workshops as required.
• Contributing to the development and maintenance of a substantial library of settlement resources.
• Contacting clients, booking appointments and facilitating online webinars.
• Providing rotational coverage at the main reception desk, including appointment scheduling for Settlement Workers and support to outreach activities.
• Working in collaboration with the Employment Access Centre team and assisting employment services clients on a basic level.

Benefits

• Free YMCA gym membership
• Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps)
• Access to our YMCA Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) including free, immediate, confidential assistance and counselling for you and your family members for mental and physical health, and financial advice, among other 12 suites of services
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Long-term Disability and Life Insurance
• Access to our Canadian YMCA Retirement Fund pension plan
• Up to 25 vacation days per year including two float days, and one birthday vacation
• Maternity leave benefits for up to 18 months

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree