Careers

Join us in our mission to support the family and friends of people living with schizophrenia.

bcss british columbia schizophrenia society person happily discussing careers

Current openings

At BCSS, we are a community-driven by compassion, dedication, and a shared commitment to making a real difference in the lives of those affected by schizophrenia. If you’re looking for a career that is not only fulfilling but also has the power to transform lives, you’ve come to the right place.

Join our team and be part of an organization at the forefront of advocacy and support for families affected by serious mental illnesses. We are seeking passionate individuals who are eager to take on the challenge of combating the stigma surrounding schizophrenia.

Together, we can create a world where individuals affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses receive effective treatment and support, and family members are essential partners within the mental health system.

Apply today to make a positive impact, grow professionally, and be part of a team working to change lives for the better.

 

  • Position overview:

    Vancouver Island Regional Manager
    Part-Time 30 Hours per week
    Wage Range: $34-$43/hour

    The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) has a vision where those affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illness receive effective treatment and support, and family members are an essential partner within the mental health system. Our mission is to support families affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illness in British Columbia through education, advocacy, and research. The society was founded in 1982, and is a charitable society with a provincial office located in Vancouver, BC. 

    Responsibilities:

    The Vancouver Island Regional Manager is responsible for the oversight of the Vancouver Island Regional team, and for programs and services delivery specifically in the South Island region(Greater Victoria Area)The manager is responsible to help build and maintain professional relationships within the region, to enhance partnerships with family organizations and others stakeholders, and increase family support, education, research and advocacy on Vancouver IslandThe manager is also responsible for creating yearly reports, overseeing the team’s stats submissions, overseeing the region’s budget, and attending monthly manager meetings. 

    Leadership

    • Provides leadership to ensure the delivery of high-quality programs that meet the needs of families on Vancouver Island
    • Trains, mentors, and oversees the Vancouver Island team in a way that builds cohesion and encourages innovation   

    Program Development

    • Builds and maintains strong relationships with stakeholders and community partners  
    • Ensures program deliverables and evaluation processes are followed and up to date.
    • Identifies areas of growth for the programs in the Vancouver Island region (e.g., expansion into new communities, new audiences or new program content)  

    Budgeting

    • Works with the Director of Operations and Programs and the Director of Finance to create, manage, and maintain program budgets  
    • Collects program evaluation data, writes program reports, and ensures reports are submitted on time to meet applicable deadlines  

     Communications  

    • Works with the BCSS Marketing & Communications Manager and the Digital Communications Coordinator to promote the programs through promotional materials, website, newsletters, social media and other channels  
    • Delivers presentations about the programs for funders and other stakeholders as required  

    Program Delivery  

    • Provides support and resources to families through phone, email, and in-person when required 
    • Facilitates Family Support Groups and Strengthening Families Together programs online or in person for the South Island and support the team in planning for the whole of the region 
    • Supports the Vancouver Island team with program logistics including scheduling, booking venues, and purchasing program supplies  

    Other  

    • Follows all BCSS policies and procedures to ensure safety and risk management  
    • Other applicable duties as requested by the Director, Operations and Programs or CEO 
    • Expected to attend the AGM and any other Societal or staff meetings as required  

    Education and experience:

    • 2-4 years in a relevant management position or supervising a team 
    • A degree in Social Services or a related field is preferred 
    • 2-4 years experience delivering mental health programs
    • Experience teaching/facilitating and working with families
    • Experience with managing budgets 
    • Knowledge and experience in writing reports and financial management
    • Knowledge of trauma-informed practice
    • Understanding the role of families in the BC mental health system 
    • Knowledge and the importance of building positive working relationships within systems
    • Ability to work in a community/outreach capacity in the Vancouver Island region, including First Nations bands, Metis organizations, and Friendship Centers
    • Demonstration of cultural and spiritual sensitivity
    • Knowledge of the importance of anti-psychotic medications in helping to treat serious mental illness
    • Knowledge of the importance of family members being an integral part of the care team
    • Attend monthly manager meetings/webinars 
    • Experience with Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom  

    Core competencies:

    • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to establish rapport with staff, volunteers, and families  
    • Strong initiative skills  
    • Ability to work with diverse populations with sensitivity and awareness of different needs  
    • Excellent administrative and organizational skills  
    • Demonstrated critical thinking/problem solving skills  
    • Ability to work well under pressure  
    • Ability to work independently and collaboratively  
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills  

    Compensation and benefits:

    • $34-$43 Per hour  
    • 4 Weeks of paid vacation to start  
    • Generous paid sick time  
    • A comprehension benefits package, which includes the Municipal Pension Plan(MPP) for employees working 20 or more hours per week  

    To apply:

    Please send a cover letter and resume in a PDF

    Attention: Andrew Stewart

    Email: operations@bcss.org

    BCSS values diverse experiences, ideas, cultures, and perspectives and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from members of all groups experiencing barriers to equity. If you require accessibility accommodations during any part of the application or hiring process, please contact operations@bcss.org so we can best support you.

    Open until the position is filled.

    Thank you for your interest in BCSS and for taking the time to apply. BCSS will contact those selected for an interview.

  • Position overview:

    Omineca Lakes Regional Educator
    20 Hours per week (Part-Time)
    Wage: $26.78 to start

    The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) has a vision where those affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illness receive effective treatment and support, and family members are an essential partner within the mental health system. Our mission is to support families affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illness in British Columbia through education, advocacy, and research. The society was founded in 1982, and is a charitable society with a provincial office located in Vancouver, BC.

    Responsibilities:

    The Omineca Lakes Regional Educator is required to work individually and as part of a multi-person team within the Omineca Lakes region, serving families in Burns Lake, Fort St James, Vanderhoof and nearby communities to service the families in the region, reporting to the BCSS Northern Interior Regional Manager. The tasks of the educator are the following:

    • Provides resources and one-on-one support for families who have a loved one dealing with schizophrenia or another serious mental illness. 
    • Acts as a liaison between families and the mental health system (hospitals and community mental health centres)
    • Organizes and co-facilitates family support group meetings, education programs for families (BCSS SFT curriculum) and community education (universities, colleges, police, and other community agencies) and possibly other community engagement.  

    Education and experience:

    • Post-secondary education in a relevant discipline, degree equivalent or relevant experience 
    • Experience with delivering programs, teaching/facilitating education workshops and support groups
    • Experience in working with families; community services work and understanding of trauma-informed practice
    • Knowledge and experience in maintaining stats and report writing
    • Knowledge of BC mental health system(including the Mental Health Act) and importance of building positive working relationships within systems 
    • Availability during daytime hours, with some evening work  
    • A secure and quiet space in your home for an office with a desk for office equipment 
    • Valid BC Driver’s license and reliable vehicle 
    • A current criminal record check 

    Core competencies:

    • Ability to work independently, setting realistic goals and strategies for implementation
    • Ability to work within a team
    • Ability to work in a community/outreach capacity
    • Ability to travel throughout the Omineca Lakes region as needed
    • Demonstration of cultural sensitivity
    • Knowledge of the importance of anti-psychotic medications
    • Knowledge of the importance of family members being part of the care team
    • Competent in computer programs; Microsoft Office, Teams, SharePoint and Zoom 

    Compensation and benefits:

    • $26.78 to start
    • 4 weeks of paid vacation to start
    • Generous paid sick time
    • A comprehensive benefits package, which includes the Municipal Pension Plan (MPP)  

    To apply:

    Please send a cover letter and resume in a PDF

    Attention: Gail Rutledge, Northern Interior Regional Manager

    Email: nimanager@bcss.org

    BCSS values diverse experiences, ideas, cultures, and perspectives and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from members of all groups experiencing barriers to equity. If you require accessibility accommodations during any part of the application or hiring process, please contact operations@bcss.org so we can best support you.

    Open until the position is filled.

    Thank you for your interest in BCSS and for taking the time to apply. BCSS will contact those selected for an interview.

  • Position overview:

    15 Hours per week (Part-Time)
    Wage Range: $26.78 – $30.90 per hour

    The educator within the Fort St. John region is required to work individually and as part of a multi-person team, to service the families in the region, reporting to the BCSS Northeast Regional Manager.

    Responsibilities:

    The tasks of the educator include the following:

    • Provides resources and support for families who have a loved one dealing with schizophrenia or another serious mental illness.
    • Acts as a liaison between families and the mental health system.
    • Organizes and facilitates family support group meetings, education programs for families, and public education to eliminate stigma.

    Education and experience:

    • Post-secondary education in a relevant discipline, degree equivalent or relevant experience
    • Experience with delivering programs, teaching/facilitating, working with families
    • Experience in community services work
    • Knowledge and experience in writing reports, and trauma informed practice
    • Knowledge of BC mental health system and importance of building positive working relationships within systems

    Core competencies:

    • Ability to work independently, setting realistic goals and strategies for implementation
    • Ability to work within a team
    • Ability to work in a community/outreach capacity
    • Ability to travel throughout the Northeast region
    • Demonstration of cultural sensitivity
    • Knowledge of the importance of anti-psychotic medications
    • Knowledge of the importance of family members being part of the care team
    • Competent in computer programs; Microsoft Office, Teams, Zoom and Dropbox

    Requirements

    • Availability on evenings or weekends when necessary
    • A secure space in your home for an office with a desk for office equipment
    • Valid BC Driver’s license and reliable vehicle
    • Current criminal record check

    Compensation and benefits:

    • $26.78 – $30.90 per hour
    • 4 weeks paid vacation to start
    • Generous paid sick time
    • A comprehensive benefits package, which includes the Municipal Pension Plan (MPP) for employees working 20 or more hours per week

    To apply:

    Please send a cover letter and resume together in a PDF.

    Attention: Steffi Thomas

    Email: nemanager@bcss.org

    BCSS values diverse experiences, ideas, cultures, and perspectives and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from members of all groups experiencing barriers to equity. If you require accessibility accommodations during any part of the application or hiring process, please contact operations@bcss.org so we can best support you.

    Open until the position is filled.

    Thank you for your interest in BCSS and for taking the time to apply. BCSS will contact those selected for an interview.

  • Position overview:

    22 Hours per week (Part-Time)
    The North Island Regional Educator is required to work individually and as part of multi-person team within the Island Health region, serving families in Comox/Courtney, Campbell River, Port Hardy, Port McNeil and nearby communities to service the families in the region, reporting to the BCSS Vancouver Island Regional Manager.

    Responsibilities:

    The tasks of the educator are the following:

    • Provides resources and support for families who have a loved one dealing with schizophrenia or another serious mental illness.
    • Acts as a liaison between families and the mental health system.
    • Organizes and facilitates family support group meetings, education programs for families, and public education to eliminate stigma.

    Education and experience:

    • Post-secondary education in a relevant discipline, degree equivalent or relevant experience
    • Experience with delivering programs, teaching/facilitating, working with families
    • Experience in community service work
    • Knowledge and experience in writing reports, and trauma-informed practice
    • Knowledge of BC mental health system and the importance of building positive working relationships within systems

    Core competencies:

    • Ability to work independently, setting realistic goals and strategies for implementation
    • Ability to work within a team
    • Ability to work in a community/outreach capacity
    • Ability to travel throughout the North Island region
    • Demonstration of cultural sensitivity
    • Knowledge of the importance of anti-psychotic medications
    • Knowledge of the importance of family members being part of the care team
    • Competent in computer programs; Microsoft Office, Teams, Zoom and Dropbox

    Requirements

    • Availability on evenings or weekends when necessary
    • A secure space in your home for an office with a desk for office equipment
    • Valid BC Driver’s license and reliable vehicle
    • A current criminal record check

    Compensation and benefits:

    • $26.78 – $31.00 per hour
    • 4 weeks of paid vacation to start
    • Generous paid sick time
    • A comprehensive benefits package, which includes the Municipal Pension Plan (MPP) for employees working 20 or more hours per week

    To apply:

    Please send a cover letter and resume in PDF form.

    Attention: Christine Riddell

    Email: vimanager@bcss.org

    BCSS values diverse experiences, ideas, cultures, and perspectives and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from members of all groups experiencing barriers to equity. If you require accessibility accommodations during any part of the application or hiring process, please contact info@bcss.org so we can best support you.

    Open until the position is filled.

    Thank you for your interest in BCSS and for taking the time to apply. BCSS will contact those selected for an interview.

  • Position overview:

    Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Educator
    20 Hours per week (Part-Time)
    Wage Range: $26.78 – $31.00 per hour
    (Temporary Contract)

    The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) has a vision where those affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illness receive effective treatment and support, and family members are essential partners within the mental health system. Our mission is to support families affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illness in British Columbia through education, advocacy and research. BCSS was founded in 1982 and is a non-profit organization with its provincial office located in Vancouver, BC.

    Responsibilities:

    Works with a multi-person team within the Interior Health region and reports to the BCSS Interior Regional Manager. Provides information and resources for family members with a loved one dealing with serious mental illness. Acts as a liaison between families and the mental health system. Organizes workshops and education programs for families and the public, including Aboriginal communities.

    Education and experience:

    • Post-secondary education in a relevant discipline or degree equivalent
    • Experience with delivering programs, teaching/facilitating, working with families
    • Experience in outreach work
    • Valid BC Driver’s license and reliable vehicle
    • A current criminal record check

    Core competencies:

    • Knowledge and experience in writing reports and trauma-informed practice
    • Knowledge of BC mental health system and the importance of building positive working relationships within systems
    • Ability to work within a team and show leadership amongst your peers
    • Ability to work in a community/outreach capacity in the Cariboo area, including First Nations bands, Metis organizations, and Friendship centers
    • Demonstration of cultural and spiritual sensitivity
    • Knowledge of the importance of antipsychotic medications
    • Knowledge of the importance of family members being part of the care team
    • Competent in computer programs; internet, monthly reporting, Microsoft Teams

    Compensation and benefits:

    20 Hours per week (Part-Time) 

    Wage Range: $26.78 – $31.00 per hour

    (Temporary Contract)

    To apply:

    Please send a cover letter and resume in a PDF

    Attention: Bonnie Spence-Vinge

    Email: intmanager@bcss.org

    BCSS values diverse experiences, ideas, cultures, and perspectives and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from members of all groups experiencing barriers to equity. If you require accessibility accommodations during any part of the application or hiring process, please contact operations@bcss.org so we can best support you.

    Open until the position is filled.

    Thank you for your interest in BCSS and for taking the time to apply. BCSS will contact those selected for an interview.

Resources

Learn more about schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe and persistent mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is classified as a psychotic disorder, meaning it involves a significant distortion of reality. More than 1% of the population has a schizophrenia-spectrum disorder.

We acknowledge that the various land on which BCSS operates and supports families is the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of British Columbia’s Indigenous Peoples. We are honoured and privileged to share this land, and are committed to reconciliation, decolonization, and building relationships in our communities.