The Child Protection Trainee position is a structured developmental opportunity for individuals who aspire to serve in frontline child protection roles within their Nations or Treaty 9 communities. Under the supervision of experienced Protection Workers and Supervisors, the Trainee learns core principles of Indigenous child welfare, legal frameworks, and frontline practice in a supportive, mentored environment.
This role supports the growth of local capacity in Child Welfare services and prepares Trainees to pursue further training, certification, or roles as Protection Workers, Customary Care Practitioners, or similar pathways.
Core Responsibilities
1. Learning and Observation
Shadow experienced Protection Workers during visits, investigations, court preparations, and family conferences
Participate in team discussions, case reviews, and debriefs to understand how child protection decisions are made
Observe the application of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA) and Indigenous law in practice
2. Cultural and Legal Readiness
Learn about the principles of Customary Care, Band Representative involvement, and Indigenous decision-making processes
Receive training on trauma-informed practice, child development, and legal reporting duties
Participate in cultural teachings, ceremonies, and knowledge sharing with Elders and Knowledge Keepers
3. Administrative Support
Assist with organizing case files, supporting documentation, and preparing resources for family meetings
Help coordinate transportation, logistics, and materials needed for Protection Workers
Maintain confidentiality and respect the emotional and spiritual weight of working in child protection
4. Community Relationship Building
Engage respectfully with children, families, and community representatives under supervision
Build awareness of the service area's unique strengths, histories, and protocols
Support positive relationships with partner agencies, service providers, and First Nations leadership
5. Training and Professional Development
Attend all agency-provided trainings and external learning as assigned
Demonstrate a commitment to continuous growth, self-reflection, and alignment with community-based child welfare
Build a learning portfolio that prepares the Trainee for future employment or academic pathways
Required Qualifications and Experience
Secondary school diploma or working toward diploma/equivalency
Interest in Indigenous child welfare, law, and supporting family wellness
Willingness to engage in intensive mentorship and cross-cultural learning
Strong listening, observation, and communication skills
Experience supporting children, youth, or community programs is an asset
Conditions of Employment
Satisfactory Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Screening
Valid Ontario Class G Driver's License or ability to work toward obtaining one
Reliable attendance, emotional readiness, and willingness to travel within the region
Participation in mandatory training and mentorship as part of development plan
Our Hiring Commitments
Payukotayno is committed to Indigenous-led services, Nation-based healing, and culturally safe workplaces. We encourage applications from First Nations individuals, especially those from Treaty 9 communities and affiliated Nations. We honour both formal qualifications and cultural/lived knowledge as valid experience.
We are committed to employment equity and welcome applications from all qualified persons, including those identifying as Two-Spirit, non-binary, LGBTQ+, francophone, persons with disabilities, and other equity-seeking groups.
Accommodations are available throughout the application process.
AODA Statement (for postings only)
In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Payukotayno will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment process upon request.
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