Community Navigator

Halifax Public Libraries invites INTERNAL and EXTERNAL applications for the full-time, permanent position of Community Navigator located at Halifax North Memorial Public Library.

Halifax Public Libraries is an inclusive employer committed to employment equity and building diverse workforce. We encourage all qualified persons to apply and self-identify.

We accommodate applicant needs under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.

If you require an accommodation, we will confidentially address your needs.

This is a unionized position. Preference will be given to internal NSUPE Local 14 employees.

ABOUT THE BRANCH

Halifax North Memorial Public Library serves the economically diverse and changing neighbourhood of North End Halifax which includes historical African Nova Scotian and Indigenous communities as well as a growing newcomer population.

Many community members visit the branch daily, including lively children and teens who attend the library independently.

We are a vibrant community space filled with programs, conversations and community partnerships.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the direction of the Service Manager, the Community Navigator will :

• Develop strong collaborative community relationships with community-based organizations, government agencies, and grass roots organizations that support the development of at-risk individuals aged youth to adult.
• Work closely with outside agencies in identifying and addressing issues faced by at-risk library users with an objective to help the library reduce incidents requiring the intervention of law enforcement.
• Work with under-served individuals from culturally, socially, and economically excluded groups in supporting education and skills development.
• Provide information, support, referrals and assistance to customers experiencing life challenges such as mental illness, substance abuse, homelessness and exclusion issues.
• Provide direction and expertise in the planning process as well as provide insight into the evaluation of services with a focus on vulnerable persons.
• In collaboration with Western district senior staff, develop strategies regarding library policies related to engagement, space use and conduct to support a safe and welcoming environment.
• Provide support, coaching and mentoring to library staff to develop their skills in providing service to vulnerable persons.

When high risk situations occur within the district, conduct post incident reviews, debriefings and prepare reports identifying appropriate actions.

Facilitate staff development and training in engagement and service to residents in the identified demographics through appropriate training programs and development tools.

Facilitate training as appropriate.

• Assist identified library staff with activities such as outreach and programming that support developmental needs of specific customer groups as needed.
• Assist with the development of public relations and communication strategies to support program goals and increase community awareness.
• Lead or participate on teams or committees providing expertise on services to vulnerable persons.
• Provide guidance and support for the library system where needed.
• Other duties may be required and assigned.

WHO YOU ARE

• You engage well with others and are skilled at providing personalized customer service
• You have a passion for working with diverse community members and seek opportunities to build relationships
• You thrive in a team environment, communicate effectively, and can adapt to changing needs and priorities
• You do what you say you’re going to do and follow through with a reliable and responsible attitude
• You are socially and culturally aware and enjoy staying up to date on best practices
• You are friendly, outgoing and enjoy meeting new people
• You are empathetic, open-minded, and an active listener
• Your enthusiasm and great ideas will inspire others

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?

Education & Experience :

Bachelor’s degree in a related field plus four (4) years of relevant experience

Two (2) years post- secondary diploma with five (5) years of relevant experience.

An acceptable combination of education and experience will be considered.

Requirements :

• Read and write English
• Excellent communication skills
• Customer service skills
• Demonstrated leadership experience
• Demonstrated ability to provide instruction, coaching and training
• Demonstrated ability to address staff performance issues
• Experience working with and providing service to at-risk adults and youth, including those
• experiencing life challenges such as mental illness, substance abuse, poverty, food insecurity,
• homelessness and exclusion
• Clear understanding of inclusive and anti-oppressive practice
• Experience working with and providing service to the identified customer demographic
• Understanding and appreciation of the philosophy of public service to all and the principles of equity and access
• Demonstrated skills in facilitation, conflict resolution, negotiation and consensus building
• Effective coaching and training skills
• Strong interpersonal, communication, organizational, teamwork and customer service skills
• Proven ability to exercise sound judgement and flexibility
• Basic computer knowledge and skills including : Functions of a web browserMicrosoft Office applications Social media applications
• Intermediate technology skills including : Willingness to learn and experiment with additional tools and technologiesWillingness to support others in learning technical skills and concepts

Assets :

• Knowledge of groups, organizations and services in the local neighbourhood that support at-risk adults and youth, including those in the areas of mental illness, substance abuse, poverty, food insecurity, homelessness and exclusion
• Experience in program planning and delivery
• Supervisory experience
30+ days ago