Language & Culture Coordinator

Waycobah First Nation; Whycocomagh; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

We'koqma'q First Nation is seeking a Culture & Language Coordinator to revitalize Mi'kmaw language and support cultural programs. The role focuses on language revitalization (70%) and cultural initiatives (30%), working with Elders, Knowledge Keepers and families to strengthen language use across generations.

The position requires collaboration with the Language Legislation Committee and participation in regional initiatives, with monthly virtual and biannual in-person meetings.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Indigenous Studies, Education, Community Development or related field.
• Strong knowledge of Mi'kmaw language, culture, traditions and history.
• Fluency or proficiency in Mi'kmaw language preferred.
• Experience in language revitalization, community development, education, or cultural programming.

Responsibilities

• Lead Mi'kmaw language revitalization efforts and coordinate language learning opportunities.
• Organize language workshops, classes, camps and community events.
• Develop language resources and promote Mi'kmaw use in homes, schools and programs.
• Coordinate cultural activities and integrate Mi'kmaw culture into community programming.
• Attend meetings, prepare reports and maintain partnerships with community organizations.

Skills

Mi'kmaw language proficiency

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Relationship-building

Community engagement

Education

Diploma or degree in Indigenous Studies or related field

Tools

Driver's Licence

Job description

Position: Culture & Language Coordinator

Location: We'koqma'q First Nation
Department: Band Administration
Term: One-Year Contract
Position Type: Full-Time

About the Role

We'koqma'q First Nation is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Culture & Language Coordinator to support the preservation, promotion, and revitalization of the Mi'kmaw language and culture within the community.

This position will focus primarily on Mi'kmaw language revitalization (70%), with the remaining 30% dedicated to cultural programming and initiatives. The successful candidate will work closely with the Language Legislation Committee, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, families, educators, and community partners to strengthen the use of the Mi'kmaw language across all generations.

Key Responsibilities

Language Revitalization (70%)

• Work collaboratively with the Language Legislation Committee to advance community language priorities.
• Coordinate and support Mi'kmaw language learning opportunities for children, youth, adults, and Elders.
• Organize language workshops, classes, camps, and community events.
• Develop and distribute language learning resources and materials.
• Promote the use of Mi'kmaw language in homes, schools, workplaces, and community programs.
• Support language planning, evaluation, and reporting requirements.
• Participate in regional language initiatives and partnerships.

Cultural Programming (30%)

• Coordinate and support cultural activities, events, and learning opportunities.
• Assist with the integration of Mi'kmaw culture, traditions, and teachings into community programming.
• Work with Elders and Knowledge Keepers to promote cultural awareness and engagement.
• Support intergenerational cultural learning opportunities.

Collaboration and Reporting

• Attend mandatory monthly virtual meetings hosted by Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey.
• Participate in two in-person Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey meetings annually.
• Prepare reports, work plans, funding updates, and program evaluations as required.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with community partners and organizations.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Indigenous Studies, Education, Community Development, Social Sciences, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong knowledge of Mi'kmaw language, culture, traditions, and history.
• Fluency or proficiency in the Mi'kmaw language is strongly preferred.
• Experience in language revitalization, community development, education, or cultural programming is considered an asset.
• Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience with program coordination, reporting, and community engagement.
• Valid Nova Scotia Driver's Licence and reliable transportation.
• Criminal Record Check required.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to help strengthen and revitalize the Mi'kmaw language while supporting cultural pride, community engagement, and the goals of We'koqma'q's Language Legislation initiatives.

Preference may be given to qualified We'koqma'q Band Members and Indigenous applicants.