The Vancouver Association for the Survivors of Torture (VAST) is hiring an Administrative Assistant for a Full/time permanent position.

The Vancouver Association for the Survivors of Torture (VAST) has existed since 1986 as a community of concern, promoting the health and well-being of people in the Greater Vancouver area who have survived torture and political violence.

We offer specialized medical, psychological, social, and settlement services to survivors and their family members. VAST is also mandated to research and develop increasingly effective assessment and treatment methods for people suffering the long-term effects of torture and political violence, to provide outreach to other groups and organizations, and to educate the public on the importance of preventing torture.

Our supporters include the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, BC Multiculturalism, and the City of Vancouver. VAST is accredited by the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT), located in Denmark.

The successful candidate will be self-motivated and flexible. He or she will be able to work as part of a team and also individually with program participants, respecting confidentiality and observing a high standard of ethics at all times.

IN GENERAL: the position of Administrative Assistant / Office assistant / is done in association with other members of the staff team and reports to the Coordinator and the Board of Directors.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Reception – Host drop-in center.
2. Answer the phone. Take and leave messages for all members of staff.
3. Receiving and passing on information, facilitate the initial stages and follow-up of referrals.
4. Make and cancel appointments.
5. Basic data management and book-keeping including: bank deposits, tracking of memberships and donation, payment of accounts.
6. Keep a daily case and appointment schedule
7. Typing, sending and filing correspondence
8. Maintaining newsletter mailing list
9. Mail out newsletter and other correspondence
10. Assist with fundraising and meeting deadlines, including the preparation and collation of grant proposals by providing updated records.
11. Maintain records for the functioning of a not-for-profit organization.
12. Supervision of office volunteers, as directed by the VAST Coordinator.
13. Maintain the general cleanliness and maintenance of the office, keep track of stock of office supplies, arrange for the disposal of recyclables and garbage. (Coordinate volunteers to complete these tasks.)

SKILLS REQUIRED:

The ability to work without supervision and, at the same time, to work as a team member with volunteers, other employees and the Organizing Team

Excellent communication skills as well as sensitivity to VAST's clientele

An understanding of the importance of ethics and confidentiality in this kind of an organization

The ability to ascertain when to ask for help

Excellent organizational skills and work habits, particularly as they pertain to office administration

Basic data-base, clerical and word-processing skills -Knowledge of Microsoft Access is an asset

Strong knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel

Ability to work flexible hours as required

Have the necessary skills needed to create a non-threatening and welcoming atmosphere in the office

Sensitivity to diversity and ability to work in a very multi-cultural setting

Knowledge of a second language is extremely useful


Salary: $15.00/ hour
Hours: 12:00 – 6:00 pm

To apply please send your resume, cover letter and references to the VAST office by email office@vast-vancouver.ca , no phone calls please.

Deadline for applications is April 25, 2008 at 6:00pm

We thank-you for your interest but only short-listed candidates will be contacted