POSITION SUMMARY

Under the supervision of SPRC leadership, the Community Developer will work in partnership with two community planning teams to implement the neighbourhood action plan, outreach to engage residents in asset based community development and initiatives and fulfill reporting and communication requirements related to this work.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• To engage a diverse range of key neighbourhood stakeholders (residents, associations, services) in the planning process through inclusive outreach activities
• To facilitate and support the local planning teams in each neighbourhood using an asset-based community development model
• To ensure that all voices are heard, conflict is dealt with respectfully and that the plan reflects the residents agreed to common goals
• To ensure co-ordination of the resident-led small grants program
• To foster leadership development for designated neighbourhood residents
• To actively participate as a member of the CD team by contributing to team building, brainstorming community development activities, problem-solving and professional development
• To assist with the evaluation of the CD team and coordinated approach to neighbourhood development

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds, cultures and perspectives
• Knowledge and experience with the concepts, approaches and techniques of community development
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to identify potential resources and teach groups to connect to those resources
• Willingness to work from an asset based approach
• Ability to think creatively, and to assist others to expand their ideas, skills and resources
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment
• Ability to motivate others and to facilitate group process
• Experience working with grassroots groups
• Willingness to conduct work outside of standard office hours is essential
• Proficiency in Word and other Microsoft products
• Ability to attend meetings in the designated neighbourhoods usually achieved by access to a vehicle and valid driver’s license
• Knowledge and experience in community development usually acquired through formal education at the community or university degree level
• At least 2 years of community building/community organizing, preferably in the Hamilton area
• Knowledge of the local community with particular emphasis of the neighbourhoods identified in Neighbourhood Action Strategy initiative

Job Type: Contract, Full time (33.75 hours per week)
Duration: January 5, 2015 – December 31, 2015
Anticipated Start Date: January 5, 2015

ABOUT US

The Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton (SPRC) is a non-profit, registered charitable organization that conducts community-based research and community development. Our goal is to improve the quality of life for all citizens in Hamilton through research, community development, community engagement, and system and service planning. Our vision is to create a community that provides a socially, physically, and economically supportive environment and supports public participation and community integration to preserve and enhance the health and well being of our population.

We offer competitive benefits, career and development opportunities and an environmentally-friendly workplace culture.

Please forward your resume on or before December 12, 2014 at 4:00 pm to:
Subject: Community Developer
Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton
162 King William Street, Suite 103, Hamilton, ON L8R 3N9
Fax (905) 522-9124 / Email: jobs at sprc.hamilton.on.ca
Website: www.sprc.hamilton.on.ca

All inquiries about this employment opportunity should be sent to: rwetselaar at sprc.hamilton.on.ca
(Please do not send resumes to this email address)

Applicants will undergo a computer testing exercise. We thank all applicants for their interest in applying for this position; however, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. The SPRC is an equal opportunity employer: women, Aboriginal people, visible minorities, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender persons and persons with a physical disability are encouraged to apply. Individuals with a disability requiring accommodation during the application and/or interview process should advise the above contact so arrangements can be made.