This is a temporary full-time position until March 31, 2027. Position Summary The Bereavement Specialist works under the direction of the Director of Community Programs and coordinates programs that support bereaved individuals who are grieving the death of a significant human loved one, regardless of their age or cause of death.
The Bereavement Specialist is responsible for the intake and assessment for bereavement programs, training, budgets and overseeing volunteers to assist in the delivery of a variety of bereavement programs, evaluating program effectiveness, coordinating key bereavement events, and maintaining a client information database.
The Bereavement Specialist performs all duties in a safe and healthy manner, in accordance with Hospice Niagara’s policies and procedures, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and all other applicable legislation.
Key Responsibilities Providing intake and assessment for bereavement programs and services
Providing referrals to bereaved individuals to community resources
Coordinating bereavement support programs, with an emphasis on identifying and addressing resource needs through the utilization of skilled volunteers
Supervising volunteers in programs and at special events (i.e. Teen2Teen retreats)
Performing administrative duties specific to files and case documentation for clients and groups
Producing program evaluations, statistical reports and budgets and grant proposals
Accountability for ensuring the client information database is updated and maintained
Overseeing the content of bereavement and outreach materials and coordinating events, in collaboration with other teams
Researching industry trends,



ensuring best practices and standards are integrated into bereavement programs and services
Participating on internal committees
Coordinating the promotion of bereavement education and community networks (i.e. GNN)
Performing other job-related duties, as assigned
Ensuring goals and objectives are developed and executed in alignment with the vision, mission, values and strategic priorities of Hospice Niagara
Skills & Attributes
Strong active listening, critical thinking, time management, prioritization, and event planning skills
Highly developed compassion, empathy, confidentiality and integrity
Highly developed inter-personal, problem solving and conflict management skills
Experience delivering training and information in one-on-one and small group settings
Experience developing and evaluating client services and programs
High degree of self-direction and self-motivation
Ability to accurately document information, develop and analyze reports
Robust verbal and written communication skills in English (proficiency in French and other languages considered an asset) including presentations and public relations
Strong dedication to the vision, mission and values of Hospice Niagara
Proficiency in computer skills including Outlook, Microsoft Word and databases
Occasional flexibility to work varying shifts, including days, nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on client,



training and event needs
Exhibit a professional, compassionate and caring approach
Demonstrate strong active listening and interpersonal communication skills
Ability to develop relationships based on trust, compassion and empathy
Effectively set appropriate boundaries and understand the limitations of volunteers in client care
Demonstrate a high degree of self-direction and self-motivation
Demonstrate a healthy adjustment to loss and exercise ongoing self-care
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Social Science, Anthropology or related field
Master’s Degree in Social Work or Psychology considered an asset
Certificate in Thanatology considered an asset
Demonstrated clinical experience (assessment, intake and support) with individuals of all ages
Expert knowledge in case management, program development and delivery based on client needs
Strong ability to mentor, train and support adult learners (volunteers) to maximize and leverage individual skills, while retaining them within targeted roles
Sound knowledge of community resources related to death, dying, grief and loss
Vulnerable Sector Police Check (favourable, within past 12 months)
Fundamentals of Palliative Care (preferred, must be completed within 12 months of hire)
First Aid/CPR (preferred, must be taken within 12 months of hire)
Mask Fit (preferred, must be completed within 12 months of hire)
Must hold a valid G licence and have access to a reliable vehicle for travel within the Niagara Region as required
Evaluation Ongoing observation and feedback
Annual performance assessment and discussion; individual development planning

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📌 Bereavement Specialist (Ontario)
🏢 Hospice Niagara
📍 Ontario