Band Representative

Northwest Employment Works; Ontario; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwest Employment Works is seeking a dedicated Band Representative in Ontario to support Indigenous children and youth in navigating child welfare services. This full-time position requires an understanding of relevant legislation and offers a collaborative environment focused on cultural integrity and community wellness. Benefits include a competitive pension and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive pension and benefit package

Opportunities for ongoing professional development

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Experience in Social Services, especially with First Nations, is a strong asset.
• Strong knowledge of Indigenous child welfare law (CYFSA).
• Valid Ontario Class G Driver's License and CPR certification.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for culturally appropriate placements and support for children.
• Maintain case records and submit reports to the Director of Social Services.
• Collaborate with child protection agencies and family members.

Skills

Crisis Intervention

Cultural Competency

Collaboration

Education

Post-secondary Diploma in Social Work, Law Clerk, or Child and Youth Work

Job description

BIIGTIGONG NISHNAABEG
INTERNAL/EXTERNAL
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Job title: Band Representative
Department: Social Services
Employment status: Full Time Permanent
Location: Biigtigong Nishnaabeg
Posting Date: July 9, 2025
Closing Date: July 21, 2025 at 12:00pm (Noon)

Job Summary:
Reporting to the Band Representative Program Manager, the Band Representative will advocate on behalf of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg children and youth involved in child welfare proceedings under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA – Ontario). This position requires a strong knowledge of Indigenous child welfare law, cultural competency, and a commitment to supporting our families in navigating the legal system with dignity and strength.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary Diploma in Social Work, Law Clerk, Child and Youth Work, or a related field.
• Experience in Social Services; direct experience with First Nations is a strong asset.
• Knowledge of the CYFSA (Ontario) and Bill C-92: An Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Children, Youth and Families.
• Familiarity with Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) practices.
• Proven ability to work within a multidisciplinary team and provide crisis intervention.
• Strong understanding of relevant legislation and standards, including the Child and Family Services Act, Child Well-Being Law, and Mental Health Act.
• Excellent computer and documentation skills.
• Valid Ontario Class G Driver’s License, access to a reliable vehicle, insurance, and a clean driving abstract.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification.
• Must provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.

Duties & Responsibilities:
• Collaborate with child protection agencies, Band Representative staff, families, and community partners to advocate for culturally appropriate placements and supports.
• Provide guidance and information to parents about legal processes and available community resources.
• Refer families to prevention and wellbeing services and ensure all interventions prioritize family unity and cultural identity.
• Deliver and support culturally appropriate prevention programming.
• Respond promptly to crises and provide concrete assistance to children and families.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date case records and submit regular reports to the Director of Social Services and Band Representative team.
• Build trusting relationships with individuals involved in the child welfare system and support their connection to the community.
• Participate in staff meetings and case conferences, both virtually and in person.
• Promote participation in First Nation community events and cultural activities for children and families.

Conditions of Employment:
• Required to work flexible hours- some evenings, weekends or as needed without notice
• Work with families within the community of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg and Thunder Bay
• Travel when necessary

Why join us?
• Meaningful work that supports families and promotes Indigenous values and practices.
• Collaborative, supportive work environment committed to cultural integrity and community wellness.
• Competitive pension and benefit package
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and growth.
• Help shape a brighter future for children and youth in our community.

This description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Application Instructions:

Online Application Submission: Please submit your resume and cover letter via our online application portal. You can find the link below. Be sure to complete all required fields and attach your documents before submitting.

BambooHR Web Link: https://bn.bamboohr.com/careers/53

Incomplete applications WILL NOT be considered & WILL automatically be screened out.

OJIBWAYS OF THE PIC RIVER FIRST NATION – BIIGTIGONG NISHNAABEG
P.O. Box 193, Via Heron Bay, Ontario P0T 1R0 Phone [phone] Fax [phone] www.picriver.com