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Specialist, Sexual Violence Prevention and Supports

Province of Nova Scotia

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia

Specialist, Sexual Violence Prevention and Supports

Province of Nova Scotia

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia
 
Salary: $3,351.92 - $4,189.95 Bi-Weekly
 
County: 39
 

                                                                                                           

 

Competition # : 45471 

Department: Opportunities and Social Development

Location: HALIFAX

Type of Employment: Term

Union Status: Exclusion - Non Union - NSPG 

Closing Date: 21-Mar-25  (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)

About Us

 

At the Department of Opportunities and Social Development (OSD), we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support Services (ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program(DSP).

 

Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure.  We work collaboratively across the province with a strong dedicated network of supports and staff, to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all.

About Our Opportunity

 

Child & Family Wellbeing Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), a division of the Department of Opportunities and Social Development, is a part of the community that is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of children, youth, and families.

 

As the Specialist, Sexual Violence Prevention and Supports within CFW, you’ll work in a critical leadership role shaping and advancing policies, services, and prevention strategies that address sexual violence across the province. Your role will contribute to developing, implementing, and evaluating programs that make a real impact.

 

This role requires a strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and the ability to navigate complex policy landscapes. You will collaborate with diverse stakeholders—including community organizations, government agencies, and underrepresented groups—to co-design solutions that fill service gaps, enhance prevention efforts, and provide equitable access to resources.

 

You will also lead the administration of a community investment fund, ensuring it contributes meaningfully to sexual violence prevention while aligning with broader system-wide supports.

 

Primary Accountabilities

 

You will provide leadership in shaping and delivering a system-wide approach to sexual violence prevention and support services. In addition, you will:

  • Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive, province-wide system of services and supports for victims, and families and communities affected by sexual violence.
  • Develop and recommend government-wide policies that enhance sexual violence prevention efforts, align strategies across sectors, and address legislative, regulatory, and policy needs.
  • Ensure the continuous evaluation of sexual violence support services, integrating research and best practices to improve program effectiveness.
  • Provide consultation and expert advice in the area of sexual violence and sexual exploitation of children and youth to the CFW service delivery system (internal and community-based). 
  • Design and implement professional development training for the CFW service delivery system (internal and community-based)
  • Foster meaningful partnerships to enhance service accessibility, promote collaboration, and ensure diverse voices are included in decision-making.
  • Design and implement engagement strategies to ensure inclusive and meaningful contributions from diverse communities, strengthening public trust and awareness of sexual violence prevention efforts.

 

Qualifications and Experience

 

You have completed a related Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work, Nursing or other related Social/Health field, and have several years’ experience with program development, policy analysis, or service delivery related to sexual violence prevention, victim services, or community-based supports. You must be eligible for registration with your respective professional association.

 

You demonstrate:

  • Deep understanding of sexual violence prevention and response, including trauma-informed approaches and relevant provincial/national frameworks.
  • Experience working with diverse populations and have a strong background in stakeholder engagement.
  • Excellent leadership, facilitation, and negotiation skills to bring together multiple perspectives, balance competing priorities, and drive meaningful change.
  • Ability to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare high-level reports, briefing notes, and presentations for senior officials and stakeholders.

 

While not required, assets include:

  • Knowledge of Nova Scotia’s legislative and policy landscape related to sexual violence, victim services, and community-based supports.
  • Experience managing grant funding programs
  • Experience leading or supporting youth engagement and leadership initiatives

LEADS

The Government of Nova Scotia has adopted the LEADS Leadership Framework. During the interview, candidates will be expected to express how they have demonstrated the key behaviors and capabilities required to effectively lead in a caring and inclusive environment. LEADS Domains include Leads Self, Engage Others, Achieve Results, Develop Coalitions, and Systems Transformation.

 

Please follow LEADS for more information.

 

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Benefits

Based on the employment status, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

Your typical work week is 35 hours with 7-hour days.  This role primarily operates in an office environment, but frequent travel within the province is required to engage with stakeholders, attend meetings, and oversee program implementation. Meetings and consultations may sometimes take place in high-stress environments where discussions can be sensitive or emotionally charged. Active listening and empathy are essential when working with victims, service providers, and community partners. The ability to maintain professionalism, resilience, and emotional well-being is essential.

Additional Information

This is a TERM employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of April 30, 2026. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

  • Career development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
  • Engaging workplace: our employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
  • Countless career paths

 

     

Pay Grade:  EC 11 

Salary Range:  $3,351.92 - $4,189.95 Bi-Weekly   

 

Employment Equity Statement:

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify on your electronic application.

 

Current government employees may access this posting through the link below:

 

 

PLEASE NOTE: Candidates will not be considered for an interview if applications are incomplete or are missing information. 

 

Offer of employment is conditional upon the completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials, the results of which must be satisfactory to the employer. We thank all applicants for the interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All questions and concerns may be directed to Competitions@novascotia.ca.

 

We are committed to hiring military and Veteran spouses and encourage you to identify your connection with the MSEN when reaching out to us or applying to any of our open roles.

 

Have questions or want to learn more about us? We would love to hear from you!

 

Email: competitions@novascotia.ca

 

About Province of Nova Scotia

The Province of Nova Scotia is a major employer providing a diverse range of opportunities across the province.

Working for the Province of Nova Scotia offers several attractive benefits that appeal to both new graduates and experienced professionals:

 

1. Work-Life Balance: We foster a healthy work-life balance, offering flexible work arrangements, generous vacation policies, and family-friendly practices, allowing employees to enjoy both their careers and personal lives.

 

2. Competitive Benefits: Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, dental, and vision coverage, along with a solid pension plan.

 

3. Career Growth & Development: Continuous learning and professional development is encouraged. There are opportunities for training, mentorship, and career advancement, making it an excellent choice for those looking to grow their skills and move up within the organization.

 

4. Inclusive & Supportive Work Environment: With a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the workplace we strive to create an environment that welcomes and supports employees of all backgrounds, promoting equity and accessibility.

 

5. High Quality of Life: Nova Scotia is known for its natural beauty, coastal lifestyle, and strong sense of community. Working for the province allows individuals to live in a region with affordable housing, low commute times, and access to outdoor activities, while contributing to the public good.

 

6. Focus on Innovation & Sustainability: Nova Scotia is at the forefront of developing sustainable industries, particularly in areas like clean energy, oceans technology, and environmental stewardship. Employees can work on forward-thinking projects that make a difference in both the local and global community.

 

 

From field to the office, we offer diverse and unique career paths:

 

Administration and Support Services:

  • Administrative Assistants

  • Customer Service Representatives

Law and Justice:

  • Legal Assistants

  • Corrections Officers

  • Lawyers, and Crown Attorneys

Health and Social Services:

  • Social Workers

  • Child, Youth, And Family Support Workers

  • Care Coordinators

Information Technology:

  • IT Specialists

  • Cybersecurity Analysts

  • GIS Analysts

Environmental:

  • Environmental Scientists

  • Conservation Officers

Finance and Economics:

  • Financial Analysts

  • Economists

  • Accountants

Education:

  • Policy Analysts

  • Program Coordinators

Skilled Trades and Labour:

  • Equipment Operators

  • Park Attendants

  • Maintenance Workers

  • Mechanics, Electricians, Plumbers and more