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Family Mediator - Family Mediation Service

In this position you will work with families seeking resolution to parenting, guardianship, and child support disputes.

Duties include: screening cases to determine if mediation is appropriate; conducting pre-mediation sessions with each party to evaluate capacity for mediation; assisting with program data collection and reporting; researching, developing and delivering educational programs that promote mediation, alternative dispute resolution and effective communication for new staff members; and consulting with the legal community and government agencies regarding the appropriateness of mediation as a means of dispute resolution.

Education Requirements

Normally Needed

One of the following:

  1. Bachelor's or Master's of Social Work Degree; or
  2. Bachelor's Degree in Sociology, Psychology, Law, or other relevant Social Science subject with some related work experience; or
  3. Human Service Diploma or relevant Social Science Diploma/Associate Degree with three years of related work experience; or
  4. Human Service Certificate or relevant Social Science Certificate and four years of related work experience.

Education Pathway Advice

To explore how you can build on your bachelor's degree:

Download the Post Graduate Guide

Career Pathway Advice

Before Graduation

  • Gain Work Experiences. (e.g., Co-op Education, Internships, Work Integrated Learning).
  • Be Curious. Ask questions about the work environment and day-to-day tasks of a job. This includes reaching out to professionals in the field, faculty, counsellors/advisors, neighbours and friends.
  • Develop Power Skills. (e.g., oral and written communication, teamwork & leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation & creativity, and engaging diversity).
  • Know Your Transferable Skills. Understand how the skills you are learning in your program meet or transfer to the requirements of your intended job.
  • Develop Digital Literacy. Be able to find, communicate, create, and edit files online (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe).
  • Be Grade Point Average (GPA) Aware. Know the minimum grade point average needed for admission to your desired graduate or professional program (if applicable).
  • Pursue Mentorship and Network Opportunities. (e.g., information interviews, developing relationships with someone working in the field, joining professional organizations, job shadowing, or volunteering).
  • Prepare Your Job Search Documents. (e.g., LinkedIn profile, CV/Resume, cover letter, and portfolio).
  • Practice your Interview Skills. Research common interview questions employers use, develop short stories you can use to demonstrate your skills and experience, and seek help from a career centre, family, or friends to do mock interviews.

After Graduation

  • Seek mentorship from co-workers and supervisors.
  • Participate in ongoing learning and professional development.
  • Build network relationships with other industry professionals.
  • Keep your job search documents updated.
  • Research the training opportunities offered by your employer.
  • Build your brand by using social media, LinkedIn, and through professional memberships or associations.

Spotlight Requirement

Family Mediator Certification (FMC) which includes:

  • 80 hours of basic conflict resolution & mediation training;
  • at least an additional 100 hours of further education & training in specific areas of family issues;
  • an approved mediation practicum; and
  • a written final exam.

Note: You should always confirm admission requirements for your desired program with your intended university.

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