Indigenous Project Officer — McGill Office of Indigenous Initiatives

McGill University; Montreal; Hybrid; CAD 63,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative institution is seeking an Indigenous Projects Officer to enhance educational pathways for Indigenous students. This role involves developing and managing projects that engage Indigenous communities, ensuring culturally informed learning experiences. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders to create inclusive programs and foster relationships with community members. This position offers a unique opportunity to impact Indigenous education positively while collaborating with a dedicated team. If you're passionate about Indigenous initiatives and community engagement, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Defined contribution pension plan

Group RRSP and TFSA options

Competitive vacation policy

Two personal days

Two floating holidays

Nine paid Summer Fridays

Paid time off during December holidays

Tuition waiver for employees and dependents

Up to two remote work days per week

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience with Indigenous communities.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategies to build relationships with Indigenous partners.
• Manage Indigenous Knowledges and Community Relations Program.
• Coordinate access to Indigenous Elders for students.

Skills

Indigenous cultures understanding

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Event and program development

Project management

Leadership skills

Problem-solving skills

Multimedia projects experience

Program evaluation

Inclusive program development

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

Job Information

Author: [Insert Author]

Date: May 8, 2025

Deadline: May 20, 2025

Type: Full Time

Company: McGill University

Salary (MPEX Grade 04): $63,810.00 - $79,760.00 - $95,710.00 annually

Position Overview

Under the supervision of the Director of Indigenous Initiatives and collaborating with the Senior Advisor, Indigenous Curriculum and Pedagogy, the Indigenous Projects Officer will develop and manage projects to enhance Indigenous educational pathways and promote culturally informed learning at McGill. This role emphasizes Indigenous student and community engagement, creating models that leverage financial and non-financial resources to support Indigenous students from recruitment through graduation. The officer will also foster relationships with Indigenous communities, ensuring engagement with Elders, cultural knowledge holders, and community experts is rooted in mutual respect and relationality.

Primary Responsibilities (70%)

1. Develop and implement strategies to build relationships with Indigenous community partners and McGill stakeholders, including initiatives like the Indigenous Tuition Initiative.
2. Implement policies and practices impacting Indigenous students.
3. Identify gaps and improve communication between Indigenous communities and McGill units regarding student initiatives.
4. Engage with Indigenous media and leadership to share relevant information.
5. Develop systems to manage data from Indigenous support initiatives.
6. Prepare reports for evaluation, planning, and unit reporting.
7. Support special projects such as the McGill Pow Wow and Indigenous Advisory Council.
8. Create methods to evaluate program effectiveness and incorporate feedback for continuous improvement.
9. Report annually on activities, outcomes, and progress, maintaining documentation.
10. Contribute to communications within the Office of Indigenous Initiatives.
11. Collaborate with internal and external partners, including communications teams and Indigenous leaders.

Supporting Indigenous Curriculum and Knowledge (30%)

1. Manage the Advancing Indigenous Knowledges and Community Relations Program, supporting culturally relevant inclusion of Indigenous knowledge through visitor and event initiatives.
2. Develop equitable, community-led initiatives for enriching learning spaces.
3. Coordinate access to Indigenous Elders and community experts for students.
4. Handle day-to-day financial tasks related to responsibilities.
5. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• 3-5 years of related experience, preferably with Indigenous communities.

Skills and Competencies

• Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures and educational contexts.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience in event and program development.
• Project management skills.
• Commitment to Indigenous initiatives.
• Excellent listening and communication abilities.
• Leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build respectful relationships with colleagues and Indigenous communities.
• Experience with multimedia projects and grant management.
• Ability to evaluate programs and incorporate feedback.
• Skills in developing accessible and inclusive programs.

Benefits

• Defined contribution pension plan (up to 10% employer contribution, if eligible).
• Group RRSP and TFSA options.
• Competitive vacation policy.
• Two personal days and two floating holidays.
• Nine paid "Summer Fridays" off.
• Paid time off during December holidays.
• Tuition waiver for employees and dependents.
• Up to two remote work days per week, where feasible.