Under the direction of our Social Worker and Programs Lead, and in collaboration with the other members of the Hospice team, including volunteers, the Program Development Assistant position emphasizes community engagement, respectful information gathering, and program development support to help ensure hospice services are responsive, culturally appropriate, and community informed.
The Program Development Assistant will assist in the planning and implementation of a community needs assessment related to grief, bereavement, and end-of-life care for indigenous residents residing in the Central Zone (as defined by the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services). This will result in the development of recommendations to include in future hospice programs and supports.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assist with the planning and implementation of a community needs assessment related to grief, bereavement, and end-of-life care.
- Support outreach and engagement with Qalipu First Nation and other indigenous community members using respectful, culturally safe approaches.
- Help gather information through surveys, interviews, focus groups, or community consultations (as appropriate).
- Organize, summarize, and document community feedback and identified service gaps.
- Assist with the development of recommendations to include in future hospice programs and supports.
- Support the preparation of reports, summaries, and presentations for internal and community use.
- Maintain confidentiality and follow ethical guidelines related to community-based and Indigenous-informed research.
- Work collaboratively with hospice staff and partners while building professional skills in community program development.
- Other duties as assigned.
- *See the attached Position Description for a more detailed list of responsibilities.
Our Ideal Candidate
- Must identify as Indigenous. Priority will be given to registered members of the Qalipu First Nation living in the Exploits Ward.
- Must be between the ages of 15 and 29 years.
- Must be registered as a full-time student for the 2025-26 academic year and intend to return to full-time studies in September.
- Previous research experience and able to provide examples of the same.
- Previous program development experience would be considered an asset.
- Respectful, professional, and culturally sensitive communication skills, both verbally and written.
- Experience working or volunteering in a healthcare, hospice, community, or human services setting would be considered an asset.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
- Excellent organizational and workplace skills.
- Ability to use Microsoft 365 products.
- A valid driver’s license with access to a personal vehicle would be considered an asset.
Other Skills and Abilities
- A strong sense of dedication to the mission, values, and goals of Lionel Kelland Hospice and be a dedicated staff team member.
- Ability to handle difficult situations in a caring, empathetic manner with good judgement.
- Able to work in an environment with residents living with and dying from advanced illness.
- Tact and discretion in dealing with and handling confidential information.
- Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team; able to perform and prioritize multiple functions and tasks.
- Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.
- Positive attitude and a willingness to “go the extra mile.”
Hours of Work
Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week for 7 weeks; May 25to July 10, 2026; some work outside of regular business hours may be required.
Hourly Rate Range
$16.35 per hour
How to Apply
Please email a detailed cover letter and resume to: humanresources@lionelkellandhospice.ca
Deadline for applications: Friday, May 1, at 4 pm NST.