Job Opportunities in Canada

About BCFNJC:
Empowered by the First Nations Leadership Council and in partnership with the provincial and federal governments, the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) is responsible to 204 First Nations in BC. Our mandate is to reduce the overrepresentation of First Nations Métis and Inuit people in the criminal justice system and the child protection system, and to support Nations as they move to sovereignty over justice.
The BCFNJC is growing rapidly. Indigenous people in BC deserve world-class legal services and programs. To this end, we are seeking team members who share our vision, understand the gravity of the work, are excited by the opportunity and will not stop until we reach our goal. We take our mandate seriously but also strive for a balanced, caring work environment that is respectful and supportive.

Position Summary:
Reporting to the Associate Director of Northern Diversion and Healing, the ()Cultural Lead, works from a wholistic, culturally grounded, and trauma-informed lens. Working as a collaborator within the Diversion team, the Cultural Lead provides key instruction and detailed planning of cultural practice within the Diversion Program. The Cultural Lead conducts needs-based assessments and works to connect Diversion clients who are seeking to stay or reconnect with their cultural practices.
The Cultural Lead works as a key member of the Diversion Team in providing accessible information to referred Diversion clients around social services systems and may even carry a case load. The Cultural Lead makes referrals and assists the Diversion Elder(s) in their provision of support to Diversion clients. The Cultural Lead’s main role is to coordinate and set up cultural events and practices for clients who wish to stay connected to culture, working with local nations for best cultural practices for the healing of trauma. The Cultural Lead may provide guidance and system navigation to MMIWG2S+ families and survivors who are seeking support to locate missing family members, and keep clients connected to appropriate services

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• The Cultural Lead position is responsible for the following key functions.
• Coordinate and set up cultural events and practices for clients who wish to stay connected to culture, working with local nations for best cultural practices for the healing of trauma and support the diversion of Indigenous populations away from the criminal justice system.
• Initiate and maintain lines of communication with Northern Nations to support the healing of Diversion Centre clients.
• Work with relevant partners and supports to conduct needs assessments on Diversion Centre clients to identify required supports and services
• Provide support to Diversion Centre clients by providing accessible information on systems, legal processes, and social welfare systems.
• Provide support to individuals involved with the criminal justice system, in meeting the requirements that may have been set out by the system, including probation orders, child welfare requirements, family maintenance, etc.
• Work collaboratively with the Diversion Centre Elder and Support Worker to share referral information and manage organizational demands on the team as it comes to the delivery of culturally sensitive practices.
• Support IJC clients dealing with gender-based violence or MMIWG2S+ families and survivors in developing wholistic systems of support through accessing community programs, health agencies, treatment facilities, housing agencies and any other program or service required.
• Take responsibility for the completion of all research, applications, intake documents, and other necessary requirements specific to meeting notes and paperwork.
• Support Diversion Centre clients dealing with gender-based violence or MMIWG2S+ families and survivors in accessing financial support, such as Social Assistance and Persons with Disabilities (PWD), including providing assistance in completing necessary paperwork and applications.
• Provide updates to the Associate Director of Northern Diversion and Healing on activities being undertaken and any resources required for completion of job duties
• Work together with the Diversion Centre team to maintain a welcoming, high-functioning centre by supporting colleagues and community partners, as needed, and as assigned.
• Contribute to BCFNJC-wide office management and records keeping.
• Comply with BCFNJC policies and procedures.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Work Experience:

• Education or equivalent experience in social work, gender studies, Indigenous studies, health, violence prevention
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience advocating for Indigenous women and girls or providing services to combat gender-based violence.
• Equivalent lived experience and community connections
• Knowledge of Indigenous cultures and an understanding of the local Indigenous cultural environment
• Understands what it means to provide a culturally safe environment for clients and co-workers.
• Knowledge of provincial and local agencies that offer support services to Indigenous peoples, in particular for offenders, children, youth and families.
• Knowledge of First Nations funding agreements and programs / services offered directly by First Nation bands is an asset
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with strong ability to actively listen to others.
• Ability to foster relationships and build rapport while creating/maintaining a culturally safe environment.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and use tact and good judgment in dealing with sensitive and complex issues.
• Able to work independently with minimal day-to-day supervision as well as working within a collaborative team framework.
• Demonstrated ability to problem solve and take initiative.
• Proficient in Microsoft applications, including MSWord, Teams, Power Point, and Excel
• Valid class 5 BC Driver’s License, the use of a vehicle and ability to travel
• A clear criminal reference check (CPIC) and Vulnerable Sector Clearance will be a condition of employment

Job Title: Cultural Lead - Diversion Centre
Reporting: Reports to the Associate Director of Northern Diversion and Healing
Location: Prince George, BC
Pay Range: $85,000 - $95,000 annually
Benefits: Extended benefits package that includes extended health and dental, personal days, paid vacation, and RRSP/TFSA savings plans
Hours: Full-time (35 hours/week); Mondays to Fridays, 8:30am - 4:30pm
While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to Indigenous applicants in accordance with section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code. Candidates of Indigenous background are encouraged to self-identify on their application.