At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the friendly face of our department, assisting clients and providing essential administrative support.
- Company: Join the Department of Opportunities and Social Development, dedicated to helping Nova Scotians thrive.
- Benefits: Enjoy a solid pension plan, health benefits, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while working in a supportive and engaging environment.
- Qualifications: 3 years in admin or reception roles; strong customer service skills are a must.
- Other info: Diverse candidates are encouraged to apply; we value unique backgrounds and experiences.
Press Tab to Move to Skip to Content Link
Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:
Department:Opportunities and Social Development
Location:WINDSOR
Type of Employment:Permanent
Union Status: NSGEU – NSPG
Closing Date:25-Jul-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
As the Receptionist, you are the first point of contact for clients, service providers and the general public, requiring excellent customer service skills. You will use various computer software systems and be responsible for assisting in the delivery of programs by providing a range of general inquiry/administrative support services.
This position involves direct client service and working in partnership with Social Workers and Caseworkers for the effective and efficient delivery of services.
Primary Accountabilities
We count on your expertise and excellent customer service to provide various administrative support, including, but not limited to:
- Interacting with clients, service providers and staff in person or by phone
- Recording and relaying accurate information to appropriate staff
- Answering inquiries, assessing urgency of requests and determining the best course of action
- Filing and coordinating daily incoming and outgoing correspondence
- Maintaining a filing system in accordance with government records management policy
Qualifications and Experience
You will have at least three (3) years of experience in an administrative support/ reception role.
You have demonstrated excellent customer service skills and a proven ability to effectively assist and communicate both in person and by phone. You work well under pressure and independently in a fast-paced environment. You have accurate keyboarding skills along with a working knowledge of various software programs and databases to delivereffective administrative support.
Though not required, it is considered an asset if you:
- have completedabusiness course
- are knowledgeable of services and programs offered by the Department and other community agencies
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.
Equivalency
This is an excellent career opportunity for many. We recognize equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Equivalencies include, but are not limited to:
- A completed 2-year diploma and one (1) year of experience
- A completed 1-year diploma and two (2)years of experience
Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.
Based on the employment status and union agreement, 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
Most of your time is spent in a comfortable office setting. Occasionally you may need to move or lift objects such as boxes or files. You will have daily contact with the public, various Government Departments as well as other local Agencies.
Your normal work week is 35 hours/week, 7 hours/day.
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: CL 13
Salary Range: $1,501.11- $1,633.95Bi-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 Womenin 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.
Accommodation Statement:
We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Candidates may request accommodations based on any grounds protected by the Human Rights Act.If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process, please contact us at competitions@novascotia.ca.
This is a bargaining unit position initially restricted to current civil service employees represented by the Nova Scotia Government Employees Union (NSGEU). If applying from outside a government office, employees must apply correctly via this link:
Failure to apply correctly means that your application will not be given first consideration as a bargaining unit applicant, and will only be included if external applications are pursued.
External applicants and current casual employees will only be considered if there are no qualified civil service bargaining unit candidates.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 concernsmay be directed toCompetitions@novascotia.ca.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Receptionist (Clerk 2) employer: Nova Scotia
Contact Detail:
Nova Scotia Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Receptionist (Clerk 2)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the services and programs offered by the Department of Opportunities and Social Development. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills by engaging with friends or family in mock scenarios. Being able to handle inquiries and provide assistance confidently will set you apart during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Make sure to highlight your experience in fast-paced environments. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks under pressure, as this is crucial for the Receptionist role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of the department if possible. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Receptionist (Clerk 2)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Receptionist position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that match these requirements.
Highlight Customer Service Skills: Since excellent customer service is crucial for this role, make sure to provide specific examples in your CV and cover letter that demonstrate your ability to interact positively with clients and handle inquiries effectively.
Showcase Administrative Experience: Detail your previous administrative support or reception roles, focusing on your experience with filing systems, managing correspondence, and using various software programs. This will show that you have the necessary skills to succeed in this position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are essential for a receptionist role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nova Scotia
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Receptionist, you'll be the first point of contact for clients. Be prepared to discuss your previous customer service experiences and how you've handled challenging situations. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and provide excellent service.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Department's Services
Understanding the programs and services offered by the Department of Opportunities and Social Development will give you an edge. Research their initiatives and be ready to discuss how your role as a Receptionist can support these services.
✨Demonstrate Your Administrative Skills
Highlight your experience in administrative support roles. Be ready to talk about your proficiency with various software systems, your filing and organisational skills, and how you manage multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you would handle specific situations. Practice responding to scenarios related to client interactions, prioritising tasks, and managing urgent requests to showcase your critical thinking skills.