First Nation Navigator

Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory; Northeastern Ontario; On-site; CAD 75,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory seeks a First Nation Navigator to advocate for families at risk of child welfare and to develop personalized, culturally aligned case plans. You will conduct home visits and coordinate with local services in a respectful, Anishinaabe-centered framework.

The role emphasizes community engagement, ongoing professional development, and the ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, in-office at Wiikwemkoong.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field is preferred.
• Advanced degrees in child welfare and family preservation are highly desirable.
• Experience working in child welfare or family support roles in First Nation communities is valued.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for and support families involved in or at risk of child welfare, ensuring voices are heard and rights are upheld.
• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized case plans responsive to each family’s needs, adjusting as required.
• Provide direct support and conduct regular home visits to assess family environments and progress toward goals.
• Build and maintain community services including parenting, counselling, education, healthcare, addiction services, budgeting and housing assistance.
• Create safe, culturally appropriate resources respecting First Nation values in all service delivery aspects.
• Maintain accurate records of interactions, case notes, plans and progress reports.
• Coordinate with other service providers to maximize family support.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training on best practices in child welfare.
• Remain flexible in delivering services, including evenings and weekends.

Skills

Knowledge of First Nation communities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field

Advanced degrees in child welfare

Job description

Nakiiwin Azheyaaksin

Employment Opportunity

First Nation Navigator

Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory (WUT) Child and Family Services oversees and advocates for child and family matters by following the principals and ethics of Wiikwemkoong’s Gchi Naaknigewin, Wiikwemkoong’s Children’s Bill of Rights and Wiikwemkoong Community Standards. This will ensure the services are culturally appropriate to support the community’s children and families in alignment with Anishnaabe values and practices. The First Nation Navigators will report directly to the Team Supervisor of the First Nation Navigators.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Advocate for and support families involved in or at risk of child welfare involvement, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld throughout proceedings.
• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized case plans that respond to each family’s unique needs, strengths, and circumstances, adjusting case plans as needed.
• Provide direct support and conduct regular home visits to assess the family environment, offer guidance, and monitor progress toward goals.
• Build and maintain strong community services and resources including parenting, counselling, education, healthcare, addiction services, budgeting and housing assistance.
• Create safe, supportive environments and provide culturally appropriate resources, respecting and incorporating First Nation cultural values, traditions, and practices in all aspects of service delivery.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of all interactions, case notes, case plans, and progress reports.
• Coordinate with other service providers to maximize support for families.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training, staying informed on best practices in child welfare and family preservation.
• Remain flexible in delivering services to meet family needs, including evenings and weekends.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related social services field (preferred).
• Advanced degrees and specialized training in child welfare and family preservation are highly desirable.
• Previous experience working in child welfare, social services, or family support roles, particularly within First Nation communities.
• Knowledge of Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory programs and services. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Understanding of Anishinaabe culture, traditions, values, and the Seven Grandfather Teachings.
• Must provide a clear Police Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Check.
• Must have a Class “G” Ontario Drivers License, access to a vehicle and the ability to travel and $1 M automobile insurance.

Salary: $83,851.00 (Grade 8, Step 1) Location: In-Office Wiikwemkoong

Confidential: First Nation Navigator – Child and Family Services

Box 112 19A Complex Drive

Wiikwemkoong Unceded Indian Reserve

Wiikwemkoong ON P0P 2J0

[e-mail]