Journalism Writer

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Under the direction of the Communications Manager, the Journalism Writer & Editor will create and edit promotional materials, coordinate and research articles for the Sq'éwqel Sqwélqwel Pípé (newspaper), Facebook, and websites, as well as proofread and edit organizational documents.

**Work that matters**

Sq'éwqel (Seabird Island Band) is located 1 kilometer from Agassiz, BC on the beautiful Fraser River, 120 km east of Vancouver. We are dedicated to fostering a vibrant and resilient community. Our work spans a diverse range of services including housing, education, health, wellness, early childhood development, community infrastructure, and cultural vitalization. By joining our team, you will be part of an organization that values First Nations knowledge, promotes self-advocacy, and strives to create a holistic and culturally safe environment for all community members.

Seabird Island located 1 kilometer from Agassiz, BC on the beautiful Fraser River, 120 km east of Vancouver.

**We’re hiring**| **Facebook** **|** **LinkedIn** **|** **For Our Culture**

**Benefits and perks**
- Extended health and dental benefits,
- Accrued vacation and sick time,
- Pension plan with matching employer contributions
- Access to internal training programs, professional development, and skill enhancement
- Collaboration with an interdisciplinary team
- Equitable hourly rates
- Casual dress code

**WHAT YOU'LL DO**
- Write high-quality, engaging, and accurate articles, blog posts, and promotional materials for the Sq'éwqel Sqwélqwel Pípé (newspaper), social media platforms, and websites.
- Develop compelling captions, taglines, and headlines that align with Seabird Island’s communication goals.
- Create content that highlights community events, initiatives, and success stories to foster a sense of pride and belonging among community members.
- Conduct thorough research to develop content that is accurate, informative, and culturally sensitive.
- Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and cultural advisors to incorporate Halq’eméylem language and traditions into communication materials.
- Attend community events, ceremonies, and activities to document and report key moments.
- Take notes, record audio or video as needed, and write event recaps that capture the spirit and purpose of the gathering.
- Work closely with photographers and videographers to complement written content with high-quality visuals.
- Partner with communications assistants to ensure articles and promotional materials are visually appealing and aligned with branding guidelines.
- Work cross-departmentally to gather updates, program information, and success stories that need promotion or coverage.
- Coordinate with management to align written materials with the organization’s strategic goals and priorities.
- Review and edit articles, reports, and promotional materials submitted by other team members or departments to ensure consistency, grammar, and accuracy.
- Provide constructive feedback to contributors to improve the quality of submissions.
- Ensure all written content adheres to Seabird Island’s style guide and communication policies.
- Foster positive relationships with community members to encourage participation in interviews, surveys, or story submissions.
- Highlight and celebrate community achievements, traditions, and milestones in written materials.
- Promote a positive and respectful image of Seabird Island in all communications.
- Research and incorporate Halq’eméylem language translations into articles, taglines, and promotional materials as appropriate.
- Create content that honors and respects the culture, history, and values of Seabird Island and the Stó:lō territory.

**Other Duties**
- Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.

**WHAT YOU BRING**

**Qualifications**
- Formal education or training in writing, communications or a related field. Other forms of postsecondary education and training, including teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers, will be considered.
- Knowledge of Halq’eméylem language and culture is an asset.
- Proven experience writing for various platforms, including social media, websites, and print
- Strong attention to detail and personal management skills.
- Creative mindset with the ability to deliver creative stories.
- Ability to research and interview.
- Must be an organized multitasker able to handle many projects at once and meet tight deadlines.
- Self-starter with the ability to act pro-actively.
- At least 3 years of relevant experience focusing on editing or marketing.
- Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.

**Preferred**:

- Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.
- Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Island’s culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.
- Ability to respond quickly and professionally to community or colleague needs and inquiries.
- Attentio