Job Description

Job Title:

Child Well-being Navigator (This position will be transitioning to a new role within Zaag'idiwin)

Organization:

Zaag'idiwin Ngodoodegizwin Dibendaagizwin Naaknigewin Inc.

Salary Range:

$72,750 - $76,400 annually

Location:

9 Village Road, Southampton, Ontario N0H 2L0

Job Type:

Full-Time, Contract. One (1) Position.

About Zaag'idiwin Ngodoodegizwin Dibendaagizwin Naaknigewin Inc.

Zaag'idiwin is a newly established organization dedicated to promoting the wellbeing of Saugeen First Nation children and families and building capacity to operationalize Saugeen's child wellbeing law, Zaag'idiwin. Saugeen children and families are at the core of who we are - they are our most valuable resources. We believe it is our collective responsibility as Saugeen to care for one another.

Position Overview

The Child Wellbeing Navigator is a community-based role focused on supporting and guiding families through the child wellbeing system in a way that is culturally safe, strengths-based, and grounded in Saugeen's laws, traditions, and values. Working closely with Child Wellbeing Workers (Band Representatives), Case Managers, and other service providers, the Navigator ensures that families understand their rights, are connected to appropriate resources, and remain actively engaged in decisions affecting their children.

This role requires relationship-building skills, cultural knowledge, and advocacy abilities, with a strong emphasis on collaboration between families, the community, and service agencies.

Key Responsibilities

Family Support & Guidance

Provide direct support to child well-being workers, including accompanying them on home visits and community engagements as needed.

Support children, youth, and families in navigating available services and resources, including health, education, and cultural supports.

Provide clear, accessible explanations of processes, rights, and available supports.

Assist in crisis management by responding promptly and effectively to the needs of children, families, and staff during urgent or challenging situations.

Facilitate and participate in debriefings with Child Well Being staff, offering emotional support and reflective guidance to promote staff wellness.

Assist families in identifying needs, strengths, and cultural supports.

Accompany child well-being workers to support families to meetings, appointments, and court proceedings when appropriate.

Provide direct support to child well-being workers including accompanying them on home visits and community engagements.

Facilitate and participate in debriefings with child well-being staff offer emotional support and reflective guidance to promote staff wellness.

Assist in crisis management by responding promptly and effectively to the needs of children families and staff during urgent and challenging situations.

Cultural Advocacy

Ensure services and plans reflect Saugeen's traditions, teachings, and values.

Connect families with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and cultural programs.

Promote cultural identity and connection for children and youth.

Resource Navigation

Identify and connect families to community resources such as housing, food security programs, mental health services, parenting supports, and educational resources.

Work collaboratively with Case Managers and Child Wellbeing Workers to coordinate supports.

Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of local, regional, and provincial resources.

Community Engagement

Build trusting relationships with families, service providers, and community organizations.

Participate in outreach activities, events, and community initiatives related to child and family wellbeing.

Documentation & Communication

Maintain accurate records of family interactions, referrals, and follow-up actions.

Provide regular updates to the Case Manager or designated supervisor.

Ensure all documentation complies with organizational policies and Saugeen law.

Other Duties

Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.

Other related duties as assigned to support the operational success of Zaag'idiwin Child and Family Services.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Diploma or degree in Social Work (RSW, SSW), Child and Youth Care (CYW), Indigenous Studies, Human Services, or related field (equivalent experience will be considered).

Experience working with Indigenous families in community-based settings.

Knowledge of child wellbeing systems, Indigenous rights, and advocacy approaches.

Skills & Knowledge

Strong interpersonal, communication, and advocacy skills.

Ability to build trust and rapport with families in sensitive situations.

Understanding of trauma-informed care and culturally safe practices.

Knowledge of Saugeen's traditions, teachings, and child wellbeing law.

Strong organizational and time management skills.

Other Requirements

Valid Ontario driver's license and reliable vehicle.

Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.

Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required.

Equal Opportunity & Preference:

Zaag'idiwin promotes equal employment opportunities. Preference will be given to candidates who identify as Indigenous, particularly those who are members of Saugeen First Nation, in alignment with the needs of the communities we serve.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their qualifications and vision for the role.

Applications must be submitted in Word or PDF format.
In the subject line, please include: First Name Last Name - Child Wellbeing Navigator.

Submit your application via email or post,

by 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

to:

Candice Ruhl

, Director of Human Resources - Zaag'idiwin Naaknigewin

9 Village Road, Southampton, Ontario N0H 2L0

candice.ruhl@zaagidiwin.ca

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: $72,750.00-$76,400.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Company pension Dental care Disability insurance Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance On-site parking Paid time off Vision care
Work Location: In person