Poverty Law Advocate - Haida Gwaii Legal Project Society

Haida Gwaii Legal Project Society - Job Opportunity

Haida Gwaii Legal Project Society (“HGLPS”) is looking for a Poverty Law Advocate who will provide legal information, advocacy and referrals to residents of Haida Gwaii. HGLPS offers information and assistance out of 2 offices on Haida Gwaii this job advertisement is open for either the Skidegate office or Masset office. We are eager to find an Advocate who is passionate about caring for people in need and advocating for others while dedicated to learning and growing in the position long-term.

Where: Old Massett or Skidegate for 35 hours per week for 2025. This position is based on funding amount for 2026 but guarantees a minimum of 24 hours/week. Travel may be required.

Wages: $26.00 to $28.50 (negotiable) depending on qualifications, skills, education and passion. Vacation pay and other incentives given for retention.

When: Start date March 31, 2025, or sooner

Job Summary:

•Conduct client intakes and assess needs in the areas of Income Security, housing, debt, Employment Assistance, EI, Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Pension, Worker's Compensation, Employment Standards issues, and Indigenous Rights (Boarding home class action, Indian Hospital class action, etc).

•Register to be part of the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (“CVITP”) for2026. Training will be provided.

•Make formal applications to Legal Aid BC, attend Circuit Court, various community coordination meetings, open house events, and trainings.

•Ensure clients get access to legal information and referrals for legal advice and legal representation.

•Promote awareness of legal advocacy programs and activities.

•Be available for annual advocates training in Vancouver every October and other internal training opportunities with the Law Foundation and HGLPS.

•Work with and take instruction and guidance from other advocates and supervising lawyer.

The ideal candidate will have:

•Minimum Grade 12 graduation diploma, or an equivalent combination of education and experience required.

•Aptitude and passion for disadvantaged clients with the following (but not limited to):

mental health challenges,

cognitive barriers including literacy skills,

physical disabilities, are low income

vulnerable seniors, and/or

victims of abuse.

•Post secondary coursework in the B.C. legal system desired and encouraged.

•Knowledge of Haida Gwaii community resources.

•Ability to be an independent worker and maintain regular communication with HGLPS’ Supervising Lawyer and Program Manager.

Necessary skills and qualifications include:

•Working knowledge of computer technology, such as Microsoft Word.

•Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with clients, colleagues, government agencies and other service providers.

•Ability to work well under stress, be highly organized, flexible and self-directed.

•A valid driver’s licence required.

•A successful Criminal Record Check.

•Ability to maintain confidentiality and identify conflicts of interest.

Applicants are invited to email a cover letter and resume, or questions to:

Haida Gwaii Legal Project Society Attn: Hiring Committee

PO Box 1369, Skidegate BC, V0T 1S1

Email: admin@hgadvocate.com

Application deadline: Friday, March 14th, 2025 at 5:00 P.M.