Indigenous Court Worker

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc.; Thompson; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 62,000; Part time

Job summary

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) seeks an Indigenous Court Worker to support MKO citizens in Thompson, Manitoba.

The ICW will help clients navigate the court system, explain charges and court procedures, and connect them with restorative justice options that respect Indigenous traditions. Reporting to the MKO Justice Programs Manager, the ICW will advocate for clients, provide education, and coordinate referrals to resources across MKO communities.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 Diploma or equivalency is required.
• 2–5 years experience in a social or justice service environment is preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively with Indigenous people and the public.
• Knowledge of court processes and restorative justice practices is desirable.
• Must be fluent in Cree, Dene, Oji-Cree, or another Indigenous language in MKO region.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for clients and navigate the court system.
• Explain charges, rights, court processes, and potential sanctions to clients.
• Explain Indigenous values and beliefs to assist with proceedings.
• Refer clients to alternative justice programs and support services.
• Maintain client files and report progress to MKO Justice Programs Manager.

Education

Grade 12 Diploma or equivalency

Tools

Microsoft Office

Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Outlook

Job description

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Indigenous Court Worker

Term Position - March 31, 2026

Location: Thompson, Manitoba

The Indigenous Court Worker (ICW) will be an employee of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) as part of the First Nations Justice Strategy (FNJS), which is a partnership between MKO, the Province of Manitoba and the Federal Justice Departments. The FNJS works to improve implementation of the Justice System for MKO First Nation communities and citizens by providing alternatives and initiatives with an emphasis on Restorative Justice that is both culturally sensitive and appropriate. The ICW will work as a liaison between the Court and MKO citizens and their families, who may be in conflict, with the Criminal Justice System to ensure that they are provided with fair, equitable, culturally relevant and responsive treatment.

Role and Responsibilities

• Work under the direction and supervision of the MKO Justice Programs Manager, Assistant Program Manager and/or designate
• Provide advocacy, support, education and navigation of the court system, legal resources and other information to the client at the earliest opportunity
• Explain nature of the charge(s), their rights, responsibilities, expectations of the Court Process, and ensure he/she understands the Court proceedings, outcomes, any sanctions or sentences
• Assist the Court by explaining the various traditional values, teachings, and beliefs of Indigenous People of the MKO Territories that will assist with the proceedings
• Explain to the client; the sentencing/diversion timelines and/or referrals to an alternative community -based justice program for any interventions, programs and/or treatment.
• Explain to the client; the consequences of failing to complete/comply with any sentence/ diversion programs, interventions, and treatment as directed by the Court
• Work in partnership with MKO First Nations, Community Justice Workers and Justice Committees and make referrals to any/all relevant resources as required and report back to the Court and MKO Justice Program Manager(s) or designate on the progress
• Participate regularly in ongoing professional development and training as provided by MKO
• Maintain a filing system of services rendered for tracking and statistical recording purposes
• Act as a liaison between the Court, MKO Chief and Councils, Justice Portfolio Councillors, Community Justice Workers and Justice Committees
• Assist in following through with any recommendations of the Court, Chief and Council, Justice Committee, or Elders which can include, but not limited to, sharing circles, sentencing circles, peace-making process, mediation, conflict resolution, community services work and any other
• Perform all other duties as assigned
• MKO is political advocacy organization that works to represent the leadership and member First Nations. All staff at MKO may be given other duties as assigned that enable MKO to fulfill the mandate and responsibility to its member communities.

Education and Experience

• Grade 12 Diploma or equivalency.
• Minimum of 2-5 work experience in a social or justice service environment.
• Proven experience/ability to deal and communicate effectively with Indigenous people, thepublic and court related organizations
• Knowledge/experience with court processes and proceedings
• Knowledge/experience of the resources available for clients involved with the criminal justice system.
• Experience working in Indigenous or northern communities
• Knowledge of issues relating to justice and policing related to First Nations as well as restorative justice practices
• Must be fluent in Cree, Dene, Oji-Cree, or any other Indigenous language within the MKO region and provide interpretation, translation services for the accused and the Court
• Strong initiative and ability to work independently and as a team member
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient computer skills and the ability to use Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook
• Possess a valid Manitoba Drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle
• Must have the ability to travel to various MKO communities as required, and work flexible hours
• Preference will be given to Indigenous peoples
• Candidates must reside in Thompson
• Must be able to obtain a satisfactory Criminal Record Check (including Vulnerable Sector Search), a satisfactory Child Abuse Registry Check and a satisfactory Adult Abuse Registry Check upon hiring.
• Ability to comply with all MKO policies and procedures.

Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience

Incorporated in 1981 as the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO). MKO is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that provides a collective voice on issues of inherent, Treaty, Indigenous, and human rights for citizens of the 26 sovereign First Nations we represent. The MKO First Nations are signatory to Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10.

Please visit our website at mkonation.com