Settlement Worker in School - Mandarin/Cantonese Speaking

Job Classification: Counsellor

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule: 35 hours per week

Number of Positions: 1

Language Requirement: Mandarin

Salary: $26.98 per hour

This is a bargaining unit position.

We advise all applicants with work permits that obtaining employment with Polycultural will not guarantee the approval of any application for Permanent Resident status and emphasize that Polycultural’s positions do not currently qualify under the government’s Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) initiatives.

About Polycultural

Be a part of Polycultural Immigrant and Community services! Founded in 1993, Polycultural is dedicated to hosting an open and inclusive environment for all. We are a multicultural melting-pot perfectly reflecting Canada’s diversity. We are like a family, have a culture filled with care and genuine connection with a very inclusive environment for all. With a diverse range of programs and services, we help individuals and families build a brighter future in Canada. Serving clients from over eight different locations across the GTA and Orangeville in more than 20 languages.

Scope

We are seeking highly motivated and adaptable Settlement Counsellor who will be responsible for working in schools designated as partners with Polycultural to provide counseling and support to students and their families in understanding the Peel School systems.

Fluency in Mandarin or Cantonese is required for this role.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Meet regularly with school officials to ensure program plan is in place and relationships are maintained
• Evaluate the success of the relationship in meeting the needs of students and their families
• Encourage and promote the involvement of students and their families in all areas of the program planning, evaluation, and delivery
• Deliver direct services in terms of counseling and support that addresses the new immigrant’s educational and settlement needs
• Based on initial contact, complete intake form and enter applicable data into the database (OCMS)
• Provide comprehensive information on orientation to Canadian society, as well as conduct needs assessments to determine client’s needs and eligibility
• Conduct program promotion sessions to recruit volunteers and to promote public awareness of the program and settlement issues
• Organize and support group activities, workshops, outings, field trips and English Conversation Circles, and other related activities, such as iFUN and WOW
• Provide information and referral to internal and external programs regarding services that will be determined by each client/family
• Maintain and expand client’s base through outreach, community penetration, and itinerate functions, which includes off-site visits, developing of outreach materials, and promoting community networks to link newcomers
• Maintain strong working relations with staff in schools, districts, and partner agencies
• Effectively track and provide accurate reporting
• Achieve targets set by the Program Coordinator

Competencies

Adaptability

Changes behavioural style or method of approach when necessary to achieve a goal; adjusts style as appropriate to the needs of the situation. Responds to change with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn new ways to accomplish work activities and objectives.

Communications

Using a variety of communication styles and strategies to foster open communication and the exchange of information and discussion on an ongoing basis.

Initiative

Does more than is required or expected in the job; does things that no one has requested that will improve or enhance services, avoids problems, and develops entrepreneurial opportunities. Plans ahead for upcoming problems or opportunities and takes appropriate action.

Service

Demonstrates strong commitment to meeting the needs of clients, co-workers, managers, or community members, striving to ensure their full satisfaction.

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Social Work, Counseling, or Education, and at least three years’ experience working with immigrant communities or a combination of experience and education that fulfills the requirements
• Registration with the college is an asset (RSW, RSSW)
• Fluency in Mandarin and/or Cantonese is required
• Police clearance for vulnerable sector is a must (Possession of police clearance valid not more than six months from date of posting is an asset)
• Knowledge of immigration and refugee services and of the ethno-specific programs and services (e.g. Government and agencies) in Peel
• Familiarity with issues facing newcomers in Canadian urban setting and systemic barrier facing integration in education, social, cultural, and economic aspects of Canadian life
• Excellent interpersonal, cross-cultural, written, and verbal communication skills
• Experience in outreach, community development, and marketing of program and services
• Ability to work flexible schedules on an as needed basis
• Reliable transportation, valid driver's license required

Other requirements

• A satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Police Check must be completed prior to commencing employment

Important Notice to Job Applicants

We strongly advise all applicants to apply for positions only through official and verified channels. Please ensure you are using legitimate links—either from our official website or trusted job platforms. Avoid third-party links or unsolicited messages, and never share personal or financial information outside of secure, authorized application portals.

In support of persons with disabilities, Polycultural asks that job applicants with disabilities who require accommodation in the recruitment and selection process, to please advise Human Resources if contacted for an interview/testing so that suitable accommodation can be arranged. (In compliance with AODA, 2005, Integrated Accessibility Standards). If you require assistance in sending your resume due to a disability, please contact Human Resources directly.

We thank everyone for their interest in Polycultural; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Polycultural Immigrant & Community Services hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity.

No phone calls please.