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1. Is there a cost to use Employment Services?

No, there is no cost to use our employment services

2. How do I become a client of your program?

You can visit our center, or make an appointment with one of our employment Counsellors. We determine if you are eligible to receive our services. You should bring the most recent version of your resume, your Social Insurance Number, and any information pertaining to your job search.

3. What is the minimum wage in British Columbia?

The General Minimum Wage in B.C. is $12.65/hour.  The Liquor Server Minimum Wage for B.C. is $11.40/hour. Across Canada, there were estimated 1.25 million people earning minimum wage, or about 8 per cent of the country’s 15.3 million salaried employees in 2017. Nearly 60% of those earning minimum wage were youth between the ages of 15 and 24.

4. Do I qualify for services if I am a full-time student?

Full-time secondary or post-secondary students are not considered unemployed. The exception to this is Students with disabilities in their final year of high school or post-secondary education who require Program Supports to be able to find employment.

To access Employment Program of British Columbia (EPBC) services youth must meet the following criteria:

1. have left or have completed secondary or post-secondary schooling (except for students with disabilities as above);
2. are underemployed (working less than 20hrs/week)
3. are not planning on returning to public or post-secondary school, and
4. are transitioning into the workforce

However, everyone is welcome to use our self-service area and can access an Employment Counsellor for any employment related assistance.

5. What are my rights as an employee?

The BC Employment Standards Branch website can give you answers to any questions you may have concerning work standards in BC: www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb. The closest branch office is at 310 Ward Street in Nelson, BC. or you can give them a call at 250-354-6550. If you have immediate concerns regarding employment, one of our Case Managers will be able to assist you.

6. If I just want to use your self-serve area do I have to be a client?

No, you can come visit our center at 608 Lake street, and have full access to a printer, scanner and computer. We also assist individuals on a self-serve basis who are not wanting to or who are not eligible to become clients.

7. If I am under 16 and looking for a job, can I use your services?

Yes, you absolutely can use our services! We can help you create or update your resume and cover letter, assist you in the job search and answer any questions that you have about employment. Our self-service area is open to you.