Social Assistance Relationship Specialist

We believe in the power of work. Since 1994, we’ve been partnering with governments and local agencies across Canada to create sustainable employment opportunities for people, businesses and communities. We understand that work gives hope, strengthens relationships and drives economic growth.

About the role

Location: Remote with regional travel required

Travel Expectations: Minimum weekly visits and attendance expected at OW/ODSP local offices, Service Provider sites, and community events in Toronto region

The Social Assistance (SA) Relationship Specialist focuses on improving client services, facilitating communication, and ensuring that SA clients receive the support they need to find sustainable employment. This role is responsible for building, maintaining and nurturing relationships with Social Assistance (SA) delivery agents including Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support (ODSP) partners. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of social assistance programs and possess excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.

What you’ll do

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with Social Assistance (SA) delivery agents (OW and ODSP offices) and community partners.
• Communicate regularly with SA delivery partners to provide updates on project progress, successes, and challenges
• Work in partnership with SA delivery agents to set monthly referral targets based on active caseload from each local office and ensure consistent flow of referrals into EO services
• Develop and deliver on-going training/information sessions for EO Network, OW and ODSP caseworkers on Integrated Employment Services and referral practices
• Act as the primary point of contact for EO Service Provider Network and SA partners on all matters concerning OW and ODSP clients, ensuring that queries on referrals or any aspect of partnership working are resolved within 48 hours (24 hours if possible)
• Prepare and present reports, summaries, and analyses to senior leadership, documenting project outcomes and impact
• Coordinate with internal operations teams to align services and resources with the needs of OW and ODSP clients
• Stay updated on changes in social assistance legislation and ensure EO staff are informed
• Coordinate with internal operations teams to align services and resources with the needs of OW and ODSP clients
• Participate in and actively contribute to relevant forums, committees, and meetings, promoting transparency of our services and fostering a collaborative multi-agency support team approach to service integration
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, promoting teamwork, accountability, and excellence in service delivery

What you bring

• Bilingual (English and French) an asset
• Strong understanding of social assistance programs and benefits
• Experience and knowledge of the landscape of local services that offer specialist support or those of different inclusion groups
• Understanding of local public sector services and commissioned services
• Experience working in an outcomes / target-based environment
• Able to work autonomously and self-starter
• Strong interpersonal skills: ability to build effective working relationships with internal and external partners
• Ability to work with a wide variety of people (CEOs, senior managers, front line staff)
• Ability to build strong partnerships and identify opportunities for collaboration

For complete job requirements, see the full Job Description here.

What we offer

• Competitive salary of $65,000 - $70,000 per year
• Comprehensive and flexible health and dental benefits
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Generous time off policy to encourage work/life balance
• A diverse and inclusive workplace with a track record of high employee engagement and teamwork

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WCG is strengthened by diversity. We are committed to achieving a workplace that is equitable and representative of Canada’s diverse population. We actively work to attract, develop, and retain employees from diverse and equity-deserving backgrounds who have exceptional ability and the desire to make a difference. We continuously strive to support individual needs and differences in a work environment that is built on inclusivity and respect for everyone.

WCG is committed to providing an accessible, barrier free recruitment and selection process. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise us if you require accommodation in advance of any part of the recruitment and selection process.