Career Development and Support Counsellor

Job Description

VPI is a Service Provider for Employment Ontario, which is funded by the Ontario Government to support jobseekers and employers. VPI has been delivering employment programs for more than 30 years. We are based in Mississauga and have 17 branches across Southern Ontario. Our organizational values rest on 4-pillars which are Ethics, Passion, Innovation, and Courage which support the desire and passion to make a positive and sustainable impact for the individuals we serve.

VPI Employment Services embraces and encourages inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. We are committed to providing accessible employment practices and creating a work environment that encourages and supports our team members be their authentic selves.

This position is full-time and permanent, open for backfill, and is for an existing vacancy.

We are seeking out individuals who have the passion and drive to make a positive and sustainable impact for the individuals we serve. Providing exceptional client experience; creating an environment where clients feel safe, heard, supported, and see progression with skill development, and life stabilization support, leading to sustainable employment and career development.

Key Job Functions

• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of VPI’s Employment Ontario services, eligibility criteria, and how to support the diverse and evolving needs of employed clients.
• Provide proactive, ongoing retention support for clients during the first year of employment, ensuring they remain engaged, confident, and progressing toward career stability.
• Conduct comprehensive career assessments to evaluate employment stability risks, development opportunities, and career advancement potential.
• Collaborate with clients to develop personalized Employment Action Plans focused on skill-building, career laddering, and long-term employment success.
• Facilitate engaging, 1:1 career coaching sessions covering topics such as workplace expectations, managing job stress, effective communication, career growth strategies, and performance review preparation.
• Monitor and support clients through career transitions, job trials, workplace challenges, and progression opportunities with active check-ins and real-time coaching.
• Identify and support access to community resources that enhance job retention, career advancement, and overall client well-being.
• Assess and determine eligibility for Job Seeker Financial Supports, ensuring they are used effectively to sustain and support employment outcomes.
• Stay informed on current and emerging labour market trends and use this knowledge to coach clients on opportunities and skills that align with their career goals.
• Administer required documentation, including career development plans, progress case notes, financial supports, and proof of employment, ensuring accuracy and compliance with funder requirements.
• Monitor and achieve individual service targets related to client retention, financial supports, career advancement activities, client satisfaction, and program compliance.
• Continuously engage clients in skills development, offering tools, workshops, and resources to strengthen their career readiness and employability.
• Achieve individual and team performance goals through effective task prioritization, time management, and resiliency in a dynamic, client-centered environment.
• Perform additional duties as required to support departmental goals and client success.

Skills & Abilities

• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Active Listening and Empathy
• Relationship Building and Rapport Development
• Time Management and Multi-tasking Abilities
• Strong Organizational Skills
• Information Gathering and Analytical Skills
• High Comfort Level with Technology and Evolving Service Delivery Tools
• Integrity, Professionalism, and Strong Work Ethic
• Ability to Thrive in a Fast-Paced, Client-Centered Environment
• Attention to Detail and Precision
• Self-Confidence, Resilience, and Adaptability
• Sound Judgement and Decision-Making Capabilities
• Ability to Build and Maintain Strong Professional Relationships
• Self-Motivation and Initiative
• Strong Interpersonal and Communication Skills (Written and Verbal)
• Client Service Orientation
• Willingness to Innovate and Seek Continuous Improvement
• Ability to Manage Targets and Achieve Service Outcomes

VPI is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals and ensure employment decisions are made without discrimination based on any protected characteristic under applicable laws.

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

VPI is committed to a barrier-free recruitment process. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise us in advance of any accommodation needs.