Justice Navigator

Location & Hours

Work location: On-site at SORCe, 1944 10 Ave SW. Weekly off-site outreach work is expected.

Hours: Generally, Monday–Friday, 8:30am–4:30pm, with occasional evenings or weekends as required.

What We Offer

• Generous vacation entitlement
• RRSP matching and Health Spending Account
• Extended health and dental benefits
• Access to on-site gym at Distress Centre (999 8 St SW) at no cost
• Paid development days and a staff development fund
• A supportive, mission-driven workplace where you can grow, take on new challenges, and collaborate with colleagues that value integrity, hard work, and making a meaningful community impact

Who We Are

For over 50 years, Distress Centre has served Calgary and Southern Alberta by providing 24-hour crisis support, information, and resources at no cost. Distress Centre does not define crisis. We do not judge. Anyone can call us day or night.

We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace where employees are valued, experience a sense of belonging, and are confident being their most authentic selves. We welcome and encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, and members of equity-deserving groups. We value all the ways that our community is diverse – in identity, experience and perspective.

What to Expect

Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) delivers the Coordinated Entry Program (CEP), providing intakes, assessment, and referral services that connect participants to housing and other essential supports. CEP staff work collaboratively with partner agencies on system navigation and service delivery, including applications, referrals, and follow-up.

The Justice Navigator provides justice-oriented navigation, advocacy, and education for individuals facing legal challenges. Through coordinated, client-directed care, the role connects individuals to holistic supports, addresses systemic barriers, and supports needs beyond immediate legal issues to promote dignity, stability, and long-term outcomes.

What You’ll Do

This list highlights core responsibilities and is not exhaustive. Additional related duties may arise over time and will be discussed and supported by your supervisor.

Justice Navigation

• Support and advocate for individuals in the justice and legal system, providing in-person support to reduce fear, trauma, and stigma.
• Connect people to the right supports, including legal, housing, health, and community services, especially for those experiencing violence or exploitation.
• Collaborate with strong community partners (e.g. Calgary Police Services, RCMP, legal and social agencies) to coordinate care and improve outcomes.
• Guide individuals through complex systems, helping them navigate court processes, probation/parole, and related legal matters.

System Navigation

• Build trust and reduce barriers by supporting individuals with stability, finding housing, and strengthening wellness.
• Work collaboratively across SORCe and community partners to provide coordinated, participant-centered support and seamless referrals.
• Create a safe and inclusive environment using de-escalation and engagement strategies to support diverse participant needs.
• Contribute to team and program success through accurate record-keeping, operational support, staff collaboration, and mentoring practicum students.

Partnership & Collaborative Practice

• Collaborate closely with partnering agencies to align approaches, share responsibilities, and support positive outcomes for participants and shared spaces.
• Build trust within the community by engaging in partner-facing and community activities that foster collaboration and positive relationships.

What You Bring

• A degree or diploma in Criminal Justice or a related human services field; an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered.
• Demonstrated experience supporting individuals with complex needs, including homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use, and/or domestic violence(familiarity with trauma-informed and harm-reduction practices is an asset).
• Exceptional communication and de-escalation skills, with the ability to engage calmly and respectfully with individuals in crisis.
• Experience with risk assessment, safety planning, and justice-related processes (familiarity with protection orders, court documentation, or victim statements is an asset).
• Proven ability to assess risk, make informed decisions, and adapt quickly in fast-paced environments.
• Highly collaborative with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of universal precautions, community resources, and experience navigating homelessness support systems.
• Proven ability to work respectfully and effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, particularly Indigenous communities, demonstrating strong cultural awareness.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter through our ADP Career Centre**.**

Distress Centre is an inclusive workplace. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application or interview process, please contacthr@distresscentre.com – we’re happy to support you. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.