Newcomer Support Specialist

About Us:

LEF delivers a variety of programs to assist individuals on their journey to a sustainable livelihood. Our integrated services focus on those: in transition, new to Canada, out of the workforce, laid off, and a host of other individual circumstances. LEF offers a holistic service model, builds on community connections, and focuses on supporting the economic independence and community engagement of families.  Our Client Engagement Team weaves together services and resources to offer seamless support across newcomer, training and employment services, and all job responsibilities reflect one integrated program with staff working together across interdisciplinary teams. 

Reports to: Manager

 

Job Summary:

 

The Newcomer Support Specialist provides essential support and services to newcomers to assist them settle and integrate into Canadian society. This role involves providing information, guidance, and assistance on various topics including housing, employment, education, healthcare, legal rights, and cultural orientation. The Newcomer Support Specialist plays a crucial role in empowering individuals and families by promoting self-sufficiency and successful integration into their new community.

Salary Range:

$25.00 to $28.00 per hour

Key Responsibilities:

Settlement Services:

  • Conduct Needs Assessments to identify clients' needs and develop individualized settlement plans.

  • Provide direct assistance to newcomers in their settlement process, including navigating government services, housing, transportation, healthcare, and education systems.

  • Offer one-on-one support to help clients complete necessary paperwork, such as applications for social services, health insurance, and legal documents

  • Assist newcomer in developing key employment skills, including resume writing, job search strategies, cover letter preparation, and interview techniques.

  • Assist clients in accessing language training services, and if necessary, provide interpretation or translation services, either directly or through professional resources.

 Information & Referral Services:

  • Offer information on available community resources, including language programs, employment services, financial assistance, and community activities.

  • Refer clients to appropriate services and organizations based on their needs (e.g., legal advice, mental health services, language classes).

Orientation & Support:

  • Lead or co-facilitate settlement workshops and orientations covering topics such as Canadian culture, rights and responsibilities, workplace norms, and local laws.

  • Support newcomers in understanding and adapting to Canadian cultural norms, including social services, housing, and workplace expectations.

Advocacy & Empowerment:

  • Advocate on behalf of clients when necessary to ensure their rights are respected and to assist them in resolving issues related to their settlement.

  • Provide clients with information on their legal rights and responsibilities under Canadian law, including work permits, immigration status, and tenant rights.

Community Connections:

  • Build relationships with local service providers, community organizations, and government agencies to strengthen networks and resources for newcomers.

  • Organize or participate in community events, outreach activities, and cultural integration programs.

Documentation & Reporting:

  • Maintain accurate and confidential client files, document interactions, and track progress in settlement plans.

  • Prepare reports, statistics, and assessments for funders and stakeholders.

LEF Health and Safety compliance:

  • Promotes LEF’s Occupational Health & Safety Policy

  • Participates in health & safety education and training

  • Works in compliance with all LEF health & safety policies and procedures

Qualifications & Experience:

  • Post-secondary degree or diploma in Social Work, Sociology, Immigration and Settlement Studies, or a related field.

  • Experience working with newcomers, refugees, or diverse populations in a settlement, social services, or community outreach capacity is an asset.

  • Knowledge and ability to stay up do date on changes of immigration policies, settlement issues, and the local community resources available to newcomers.

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work with people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

  • Fluency in a second language, such as Tigrinya, or Somali, is considered an asset.

  • Knowledge of the challenges faced by newcomers, including language barriers, cultural adaptation, and social isolation.

  • Proficient computer skills, including word processing, database and email software

  • Compassionate, empathetic, and patient with a strong commitment to supporting vulnerable populations.

  • Excellent problem-solving with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

  • Strong organizational and time management skills

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Work Environment:

  • In person in office and community settings

  • Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on community needs

  • Ability to efficiently travel to multiple locations within the community

Your application:

This posting is for an existing vacancy. Email your expression of interest to apply or transfer to recruiting@lefca.org by:

 Closing Date: April 30, 2026

We thank all applicants for applying; only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

The Learning Enrichment Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to complying with the Ontario Human Rights Code and Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodations to participate in the recruiting process, please contact recruiting@lefca.org

The Learning Enrichment Foundation does not use artificial intelligence (AI) to review, screen or evaluate cover letters or resumes.