Information Counsellor, Newcomer Information Centre

**SUMMARY**:
The Newcomer Information Centres (NICs) are walk-in information and referral centres funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and operated by Achev. NICs provide settlement information and referral for the smooth transition of newcomers to life in Canada.
The Information Counsellor will work in a fast-paced team environment and effectively provide settlement assistance to newcomers to address their individual settlement needs. Information Counsellor will ensure that clients have access to timely, accurate and useful information to help them make informed settlement decisions.
**DUTIES &
RESPONSIBILITIES**:
- Assess client needs and provide information, orientation &
referral to appropriateprograms/services within the community
- Research and compile settlement and employment related information for newcomers, internationally trained professionals and other clients
- Develop, maintain and update existing information related to a variety of programs and services in the community
- Liaise with local government and community service providers and contribute to the development and maintaining partnerships in Peel and Halton
- Create, develop, organize and deliver on-site and on-line workshops and orientation sessions to address the needs of newcomers to Canada
- Initiate and participate in outreach activities as required to raise awareness about programs and services available
- Assist in preparation and design of new flyers and other marketing materials for information sessions and events
- Assist in the collection of statistics and preparation of material for reports
In accordance with Achev and government policies, manage sensitive and confidential information of clients and organization
- Contribute to team cohesiveness and team building
Perform other related duties as required
**QUALIFICATIONS**:
- Relevant Post Secondary Education in related fields or a minimum of two (2) years of work experience in a customer service capacity in community social services sector
- Current knowledge of legislation, policies and practices affecting newcomer
- Strong knowledge of settlement and employment related services and agencies available in the community
- Demonstrated facilitation experience - with experience facilitating to newcomers from different backgrounds, age groups, or CLB levels
- Experience in coordinating guest speaker sessions and special event
- Flexible, self-motivated, ability to multi-task and to meet the deadline
- Ability to work co-operatively as a member of a team
- Excellent communication (verbal and written), interpersonal and leadership skills
- Strong internet research skills
- Good presentation, problem solving, organizational and project management skills
- Demonstrated experience in dealing with multicultural and disability issues
- Knowledge of Arabic language is required
- Certified Information &
Referral Specialist (CIRS) certification is an asset
- Must possess a valid driver’s license, able to supply own vehicle and be insurable to drive in Ontario