Job Description

Organization Summary:

Empowered by the First Nations Leadership Council and in partnership with the provincial and federal governments, the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) is responsible to 204 First Nations in BC. Our mandate is to reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system and to support Nations as they move to sovereignty over justice.

The BCFNJC is growing rapidly. Indigenous people in BC deserve world-class legal services and programs. To this end, we are seeking team members who share our vision, understand the gravity of the work, are excited by the opportunity and will not stop until we reach our goal. We take our mandate seriously but also strive for a balanced, caring work environment that is respectful and supportive.

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Associate Director of Northern Diversion and Healing, the ()Cultural Coordinator, works from a wholistic, culturally grounded, and trauma-informed lens. Working as a collaborator on the Indigenous Diversion Centre of Prince George team, the Cultural Coordinator provides key instruction and detailed planning of cultural activities and practices within the Centre to support Indigenous people involved in the criminal justice system. The Cultural Coordinator works to connect Diversion participants who are seeking to stay or reconnect with their cultural practices and is responsible for implementing many of these activities while working closely with the Indigenous Diversion Centre's Elder in Residence to utilize spirit and culture as key pathways for healing.

The Diversion Centre will be supporting Indigenous community members from across Northern British Columbia. The Diversion Centre is designed to divert Indigenous peoples away from the criminal justice system at the point of contact with RCMP, or in a post-release manner from Prince George Regional Correction Centre (PGRCC). Emphasizing the urgent and direct need to have social service mechanism initiated at that point of contact to lower recidivism through Diversion. The BC First Nations Justice Council is committed to reforming the criminal justice system and restoring Indigenous legal traditions.

Preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Coordinate and set up consistent and well-organized cultural events and activities for participants who wish to stay connected to culture, ensuring IDC programming is following appropriate protocol and approaches. Maintain and update all cultural support tools such as resources, programs and checklists on the central documentation folder. Coordinate all cultural activities, supporting the Elder in Residence with ceremonies and land-based activities. Examples include monthly Sundance sweat lodges, drum making, traditional food preparation, etc. Lead regular land-based activities with program participants. Ensure compliance with BCFNJC's Privacy Policy and all policies and protocols outlined in the Indigenous Diversion Centre's Operational Manual. Ability to assess risk and potential organizational liability with any events or activities, and make these aware to the Associate Director to mitigate as a team. Ability to share cultural knowledge with Participants in a way that all people feel welcomed, included and supported, regardless of cultural background or beliefs. Comply with purchasing procedures and uphold the BCFNJC Procurement policy and related financial policies. Stay informed about cultural resources and programs in the community, building positive relationships as the IDC evolves. Participate in showcasing achievements, challenges and recommendations, working with BCFNJC's communication team when appropriate. Integrate cultural considerations into service delivery to ensure that participants' needs are met in a culturally competent manner. Where necessary, providing basic technical support to Elders and Knowledge Keepers. Coordinate arrangements for Elder/Knowledge Keeper travel and appropriate expense processes and procedures.

Qualifications and Work Experience:

Education or equivalent experience in social work, gender studies, Indigenous studies, health, violence prevention, etc. Equivalent lived experience and community connections. Knowledge of Indigenous cultures and an understanding of the local Indigenous cultural environment. Understands what it means to provide a culturally safe environment for participants and co-workers. Proficient in Microsoft applications, including MSWord, Teams, PowerPoint, and Excel. Valid class 5 BC Driver's License, the use of a vehicle and ability to travel. A clear criminal reference check (CPIC) and Vulnerable Sector Clearance will be a condition of employment. Work is performed primarily in the office with many land-based outings. Work long hours using computer or other equipment. Occasional travel to attend meetings or training is required. Must be able to lift up to 20 - 30 lbs. Performs other duties as assigned.

Reporting:

Associate Director of Northern Diversion and Healing

Location:

Prince George

Benefits:

Extended benefits package that includes health and dental, personal days, paid vacation, and RRSP/TFSA savings plans

Pay Range:

$65,000-$75,000 - salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Hours:

Full-time (35hours / week); Mondays to Fridays



While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to Indigenous applicants in accordance with section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code. Candidates of Indigenous background are encouraged to self-identify on their application.