Program: Indigenous Early Years (IEY)

Employment Status:

  • Position 1: Full-Time, Permanent

  • Position 2: Full-Time, Temporary (Contract Ending June 2027)

Union: BCGEU

Location:

  • Phil Bouvier Family Centre (VAHS Indigenous Early Years), 717 Princess Avenue, Vancouver, BC

  • Co-located at a Neighbourhood House or Community Centre in Vancouver

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (some flexibility required)

Wage: $29.70/hour (Step 1 of BCGEU Collective Agreement)

Start Date: Immediate

Closing Date: Open until suitable candidates are found

About Vancouver Aboriginal Health Society (VAHS)

Vancouver Aboriginal Health Society (VAHS) is a not-for-profit organization that has served the Downtown Eastside community for over 30 years. VAHS programs are designed by and for urban Indigenous people to promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness.

Our services include a Primary Care Clinic, Dental Clinic, Cultural Programming with Elders and Knowledge Keepers, and Indigenous Early Years programs.

About the Role

The Indigenous Early Years (IEY) Child and Family Support Program is a family-centred program that works in partnership with parents and caregivers to support families with children.

We are currently seeking two Family Support Workers to join our Indigenous Early Years team. One position is permanent, while the second is a temporary contract ending in June 2027.

The Family Support Worker provides a range of supports, including:

  • Peer support and advocacy

  • Parenting skill development

  • Life skills training

  • Connecting families to community-based resources and activities

  • Supporting families in accessing services and community supports

These positions are co-located within community settings and require travel, including home visits. The roles involve managing dynamic caseloads and may require occasional evening work.

Qualifications

  • Diploma in Human Services or a related field with a minimum of two (2) years' experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Minimum two (2) years' experience working with Indigenous communities

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Strong understanding of Indigenous cultures, values, and community supports

  • Experience in assessment, supportive counselling, and advocacy

  • Ability to teach life skills, including home management, budgeting, and time management

  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills

  • Knowledge of early childhood development and community resources

  • Understanding of child welfare systems and Indigenous-specific issues

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

  • Strong organizational and time management skills

  • Experience facilitating groups and working in community-based settings

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word and Outlook

Assets:

  • Knowledge of the Child, Family and Community Services Act

  • Experience with parenting programs, such as Nobody's Perfect Parenting

  • Valid BC Driver's Licence and access to a reliable vehicle

What We Offer

  • BCGEU union positions

  • Starting wage of $29.70/hour

  • Eligibility for comprehensive benefits and pension following the three-month probationary period

  • Meaningful, community-driven work

  • Supportive and culturally grounded work environment

Equity Statement

VAHS strongly encourages applications from Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) applicants, in alignment with Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code.

We also encourage applications from individuals who identify as Black, people of colour, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.

Please self-identify in your cover letter if you feel comfortable doing so.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter (PDF format) to:

Email: [email protected]

Attention: Doreen Macfarlane, Director of Indigenous Early Years

Subject Line: Family Support Worker Application

Please indicate in your cover letter whether you are applying for the permanent position, temporary position ending June 2027, or would like to be considered for both opportunities.

Application Deadline: Open until suitable candidates are found.

Successful candidates will be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check.

VAHS thanks all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.