Language Nest Elder

Cold Lake First Nations; City of Cold Lake; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Cold Lake First Nations is seeking a dedicated Language Immersion Worker to help sustain and transmit the Denesuline language to young children. The role centers on being the primary language speaker and cultural mentor within a supportive team.

You will teach through everyday activities, stories, songs, and traditional practices, while collaborating with early childhood educators. Flexible hours may apply, including occasional evenings and weekends for community events.

Qualifications

• Fluent or conversational Denesuline language required.
• Deep cultural knowledge of Cold Lake First Nations and respectful teaching practices.
• Ability to pass background checks (Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector).

Responsibilities

• Language Immersion: speak Denesuline exclusively or primarily with infants and children.
• Cultural Guidance: share traditional values, stories, songs to ground children in heritage.
• Mentorship: model fluent speech for co-teachers and trainees.
• Safe Environment: maintain a warm, nurturing space with staff and educators.

Skills

Language fluency

Cultural knowledge

Clearances

Job description

Job Purpose

• Provides natural, immersive Indigenous language transmission and cultural teachings to young children. Key roles include primary language speaker, cultural mentor and traditional knowledge keeper.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Language Immersion - Speak the Denesuline language exclusively or primarily while interacting, playing and caring for infants and young children.
• Cultural Guidance - Share traditional values, customary child-rearing practises, stories, and songs to ground the children in their heritage.
• Mentorship - Support co-teachers, language apprentices, and trainees by modeling fluent speech and correct pronunciation.
• Safe Environment - Help maintain a warm, gentle, and nurturing space alongside support staff and early childhood educators.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

• Language Fluency - Fluent or conversational speaker of the Denesuline Language.
• Cultural Knowledge - Deep roots in the Cold Lake First Nations community and respect for protocols and ways of teaching.
• Clearances - Ability to pass standard background checks such as Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector check.

Working Conditions and/or Physical Requirements

• Office environment - Monday to Thursday 8:30am – 4:30pm
• Working hours can vary and may require a flexible schedule depending on type of assignment or work plan task.
• Evening and weekend work may be required to attend meetings, events, and community engagement sessions.