Summary

The Child and Family Services Coordinator is a key figure in enhancing the well-being and development of children and families in the Gitsegukla First Nation community. The primary objective is to enhance the safety and well-being of children by empowering families and communities. This position will focus on implementing preventative measures to ensure the retention of Gitsegukla children in their community, providing parenting education and support, and collaborating with delegated agencies to address complex family situations.

 

Who we are

Welcome to the Gitsegukla First Nation, a vibrant and proud community comprising 500 individuals. Nestled at the confluence of the Kitseguecla and Skeena Rivers, just 40 km southwest of Hazelton, British Columbia, our name Gitsegukla symbolizes “people living under the precipice” in the Gitxsan language, representing the striking mountain that overlooks our land.  Located in the captivating Skeena Valley, our community offers a serene and picturesque environment that has sustained our ancestors for countless generations. We hold immense pride in our diverse culture, profound history, and cherished traditions, and our unwavering commitment is to safeguard these invaluable treasures for the prosperity of future generations.

 

What we offer

Gitsegukla First Nation will provide you with purpose in your work. As part of our team you will contribute to the betterment of our community. We value inclusivity, support, and care which foster a positive work environment. Along with the opportunity to work alongside a compassionate like-minded team, we provide a generous compensation package which includes:

 

·         Three (3) weeks annual vacation

·         Elective Leave: 18 days paid personal leave

·         An additional 10 days paid time off during the festive season

·         A generous registered pension plan

·         A healthy extended benefit plan

·         Training, Learning and Development to support your career growth

Supporting you

 

If you are community member who is re-entering the work force, a new graduate, or in the midst of a career change, Gitsegukla First Nation is committed to your success.  We provide training, coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to support your success.  We ask that you have an eagerness to learn.  Having all the qualifications listed in the posting is not always necessary!

 

What you will do

 

Program Development and Management:

·        Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and support groups to educate parents and caregivers on effective parenting techniques and child development practices.

·        Create culturally relevant parenting resources and materials to empower families to nurture healthy and supportive environments for their children.

·        Provide one-on-one counseling and coaching to parents, offering personalized guidance based on their unique needs.

·        Develop and implement child and family services programs and initiatives in collaboration with community leaders and relevant stakeholders.

·        Ensure that programs are culturally sensitive, reflect the needs of the community, and comply with applicable legislation and funding requirements.

·        Monitor program effectiveness, evaluate outcomes, and make recommendations for improvement.

 

Case Management and Support:

·        Assess the needs and strengths of children and families, and develop individualized service plans in consultation with families, community members, and relevant professionals.

·        Provide guidance, support, and advocacy to families involved in child and family services, including child protection, family support, and adoption.

·        Collaborate with external agencies, such as social workers, counselors, and healthcare professionals, to coordinate services and ensure the best interests of the children and families are met.

·        Conduct regular meetings with parents to address their concerns and ensure ongoing support and engagement.

·        Work closely with schools and educators to identify and address any academic or behavioral challenges children may face.

·        Advocate for children’s needs within the educational system and ensure their access to appropriate resources and accommodations.

 

·        Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and support groups to educate parents and caregivers on effective parenting techniques and child development practices.

·        Create culturally relevant parenting resources and materials to empower families to nurture healthy and supportive environments for their children.

·        Provide one-on-one counseling and coaching to parents, offering personalized guidance based on their unique needs.

 

 

Crisis Intervention and Support:

·        Respond promptly to crises and emergency situations involving children and families in the community.

·        Offer emotional support and assistance to families facing challenges and advocate for their rights within the child welfare system.

·        Work collaboratively with other service providers, including mental health professionals, counselors, and healthcare workers, to address the diverse needs of families.

 

Community Engagement and Collaboration:

·        Foster positive relationships with community members, leaders, and Elders, respecting and incorporating cultural practices and traditions.

·        Collaborate with other departments within the Gitsegukla First Nation to integrate child and family services with broader community initiatives and programs.

·        Act as a liaison between the Gitsegukla First Nation and external agencies, advocating for the needs and rights of children and families.

 

Training and Education:

·        Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and support groups to educate parents and caregivers on effective parenting techniques and child development practices.

·        Create culturally relevant parenting resources and materials to empower families to nurture healthy and supportive environments for their children.

·        Provide one-on-one counseling and coaching to parents, offering personalized guidance based on their unique needs.

·        Develop and deliver culturally appropriate training programs and workshops for community members, families, and professionals to enhance knowledge and skills related to child and family services.

·        Stay up to date with relevant legislation, policies, and best practices in the field of child and family services and share this information with the community and staff.

 

Administration and Reporting:

·        Maintain accurate and confidential records of all client interactions, services provided, and program activities.

·        Prepare regular reports on program outcomes, challenges, and recommendations for improvement.

·        Manage program budgets and ensure efficient use of resources.

 

 

Qualifications: Education and Experience

•     Degree or bachelor’s in social work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field.

•     Three to Five years in experience of delivery or social services associated with child and family services. An equivalent education and experience may be considered.

•     Proven experience in child welfare, family services, or community outreach, particularly with Indigenous communities.

•     Strong understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture, traditions, and values.

•     Knowledge of parenting techniques, child development, and family dynamics.

•     Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

•     Empathetic and non-judgmental approach to working with families in crisis.

•     Ability to collaborate and build positive relationships with community stakeholders, agencies, and service providers.

•     Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.

•     Proficiency in data management and report writing.

•     Family Support Training and Home Visitor Training & Non-Violent Crisis Intervention are an asset.

•             Valid B.C. Class 5 Driver’s license and reliable working vehicle

 

Skill Sets and Competencies

Knowledge:

Child Welfare Systems: Demonstrated understanding of child welfare laws, policies, and procedures, particularly related to the protection and well-being of children and families.
Cultural Competence: Proficiency in the cultural practices, values, and traditions of Indigenous communities, and the ability to apply culturally sensitive approaches to service delivery.
Child Development: Knowledge of child development stages, milestones, and age-appropriate behaviors to assess and address the needs of children and families.
Parenting Techniques: Familiarity with effective parenting techniques and strategies to support parents and caregivers in nurturing healthy family dynamics.
Crisis Intervention: Understanding of crisis intervention techniques and the ability to respond to emergencies in a calm and effective manner.
Community Resources: Awareness of available community resources, support services, and agencies to connect families with appropriate assistance and support.
Data Management: Proficiency in maintaining accurate records, collecting data, and generating reports to track program outcomes and measure the impact of interventions.
Skills:

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with families, community members, agency representatives, and other professionals.
Empathy: Demonstrated ability to show empathy, understanding, and sensitivity while working with families experiencing challenging situations.
Active Listening: Skill in actively listening to families, understanding their concerns, and offering appropriate guidance and support.
Collaboration: Ability to collaborate and work effectively with other professionals, agencies, and community partners to provide comprehensive services.
Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills to assess complex family situations and develop appropriate intervention plans.
Cultural Sensitivity: Skill in adapting interventions and services to respect and incorporate the cultural values and beliefs of Gitsegukla families.
Time Management: Efficiently manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and meet deadlines.
Abilities:

Relationship Building: Ability to build trusting and respectful relationships with families and stakeholders, fostering an environment of open communication and collaboration.
Advocacy: Capability to advocate for the best interests of children and families, both within the community and within child welfare systems.
Resilience: Ability to handle emotionally challenging situations, maintain composure during crises, and provide consistent support to families.
Flexibility: Adaptability to work in dynamic environments, adjust intervention strategies as needed, and respond to changing circumstances.
Cultural Resilience: Ability to promote and strengthen the cultural resilience of Indigenous families, preserving their identity and connection to their community.
Empowerment: Skill in empowering families to take an active role in decision-making processes and advocating for their needs and rights.
Continuous Learning: Willingness to stay updated on child welfare best practices, cultural awareness, and relevant research to enhance service delivery.
A strong personal interest and commitment to Gitsegukla First Nation’s vision, mission and values
Knowledge of and previous work experience with First Nations Communities and Indigenous Cultures is a definite asset
To apply:

 

If you are aligned with our values  and are committed to supporting our community, please submit your resume and cover letter to careers@jouta.com, with the position title in the subject line.

We encourage applicants to submit applications as soon as possible, as applicants will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.  We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

 

Persons of Indigenous ancestry will be given preference. s16(1) CHRA.