Customary Care Lead

Oneida Nation of The Thames; Southwold; On-site; CAD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Oneida Nation of the Thames is seeking a Customary Care Lead to advocate for the best interests of children and youth in child welfare matters.

You will develop customary care practices, present draft agreements to the Elected Council when needed, and lead the creation of community-based standards of care grounded in Haudenosaunee culture and practices to promote safety and family-centered support.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work preferred; acceptable alternative with related qualifications.
• Minimum two years supervisory/leadership experience in social services.
• Experience supporting First Nations children, youth and families.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for the best interests of children and youth in child welfare matters.
• Develop and implement customary care practices for families in need.
• Present draft agreements to Elected Council for review, declaration and approval.
• Lead development of community-based standards of care grounded in Haudenosaunee culture.
• Promote rights and provide culturally relevant services and referrals.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Child welfare knowledge

First Nations cultural knowledge

Communication skills

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work

Post-Secondary Diploma in Social Service Worker

Job description

Salary: Competitive salary range

Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:30a.m. to 4:30p.m.

must be flexible and statutory holidays

Position: Customary Care Lead

Term: Permanent Full-Time

Department: Child and Family Services

Division: Community and Social Services

Posting Date: July 31, 2026 Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Job Summary

The Customary Care Lead advocates for the best interests of children and youth who are registered or eligible for registration with Oneida Nation of the Thames, specifically in matters related to child welfare.

This position is responsible for supporting the development and implementation of customary care practices for families in need of such care. When necessary to withdraw from court proceedings, the Customary Care Lead will present the draft agreement to the Elected Council for review, declaration, and approval.

This position will lead the development of community-based standards of care, advocating for, negotiating, and supporting children and families who require a customized approach to care grounded in Haudenosaunee culture and practices. Guided by core community values, the Customary Care Lead will prioritize the safety of children while ensuring they have opportunities to be raised within their community, surrounded by family and a circle of supports.

The Customary Care Lead will also ensure that registered or eligible to be registered children, youth, and their families are aware of their inherent and legal rights. They will promote fair, equitable, and respectful treatment while providing culturally relevant services, resources, and referrals aligned with the vision, mission, and values of the Oneida Nation of the Thames.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work is preferred.
• Candidates with a Post-Secondary Diploma in Social Service Worker or those with equivalent or related educational qualifications may also be considered.

Experience

• A minimum of two (2) years experience in a supervisory or leadership role is preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in child welfare, social services, or a related field.
• Experience supporting First Nations children, youth, and families is required.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Oneida culture and history is required.
• Strong knowledge of federal legislation, including An Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Metis Children, Youth and Families, is required.
• A Valid Class “G” Ontario Driver’s License and use of company vehicle is required.

Mandatory Documentation With Application

• A cover letter addressing the qualifications listed above must be included with your application.
• Resume

Requirements Prior To Starting Employment

• The successful candidate must submit a Vulnerable Sector Check (completed within a 30-day timeframe), at their own expense.
• The successful candidate must submit a copy of valid Class “G” driver’s license and a driver abstract (completed within a 30-day timeframe), at their own expense.
• The successful candidate must submit a copy of applicable educational qualifications (certificates, diplomas, degrees, etc.).

Submit all mandatory documentation to [e-mail].

• Late applications will not be accepted.
• All applications will be screened according to the above qualifications, including a full and complete application as requested.
• Only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
• A registered member of a First Nation as per Section 16(1) of the Human Rights Act, is preferred.

Oneida Nation is committed to workplace diversity and provides accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout our hiring process. If you require accommodations, please contact Human Resources.

To request a full job profile, contact the Human Resources Department at 519-652-3244 ext. 827 or by email [e-mail]