Indigenous Health Associate

Employment Status: Full-time
Department: Indigenous Health
Union: Health Care Professionals
End Date: Oct 21, 2025
Job Code: 19507
- Pension - Dental Insurance - Disability Insurance - Bonuses - Health Insurance - Life Insurance
- Weekends - Days - Evenings

**JOIN OUR TEAM AND HELP LEAD WITH CARE, COMPASSION AND COMMITMENT**

**ABOUT THE ROLE**

Reporting to the Clinical Manager, the Indigenous Health Associate works within the Indigenous Health Team and Inter-professional Team to develop and improve access to culturally safe and appropriate care. Distinct roles include Cultural Support, Advocacy, Systems Navigation and Transitions in Care. This role ensures the physical, social, emotional and spiritual care needs of the client and family are assessed and addressed in accordance with the Medicine Wheel teachings. While these primary roles may overlap, specific skills, knowledge, and education are required for each role. The Indigenous Health Associate will move knowledgeably and comfortably through the roles as required.

**This posting is for an existing vacancy within the organization.**

**COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY**

At St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG), our diverse workforce strengthens our ability to provide culturally competent care and innovative solutions to the complex needs of our clients and communities. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, diverse race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, family status, religion, disability, and socioeconomic status, to help address under-representation and foster greater inclusivity and belonging at SJCG.

**WHAT YOU BRING**

Education/Experience:

- Post-secondary education in Indigenous Health studies (i.e. Social Work, etc.) with a degree or appropriate combination of education and experience accepted
- Understanding of the barriers and issues facing Indigenous clients in health care settings
- Knowledge and experience in establishing networks of support and accessing community resources and services
- Training and experience related to client care for people from Indigenous, addictions and mental health populations
- Understanding of the social determinants of health of Indigenous people and the social consequences and risk factors associated with client conditions (i.e. complex/chronic conditions, addictions, and mental health)
- Experience working with clients facing mental health and addiction challenges in various outpatient settings, with a strong understanding of harm reduction principles and community-based treatment approaches

Skills/Abilities:

- Ability to communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of teams within the workplace, community and ministries/agencies.
- Ability to assess and support clients with mental health and addiction challenges, provide case management services, and assist them in accessing outpatient programs, while fostering a safe and supportive environment
- Demonstrated skills and abilities for building and supporting a positive team environment
- Strong organizational, problem solving, and time management skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to use independent judgment and maintain confidentiality of records, actions, and information
- Knowledge of Indigenous ceremonies and traditional healing practices
- Knowledge of Indigenous history, culture and worldview
- Knowledge of Indigenous historic and intergenerational trauma experience/impacts of Indigenous clients while utilizing a trauma informed practice through a cultural lens
- Ability to speak an Indigenous language is preferred
- Competent within the meaning of the Occupational Health & Safety Act

Conditions of Employment:

- This position shall be conditional upon a satisfactory **Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC)**where indicated, to ensure the absence of relevant criminal convictions.
- Ability to travel to various work locations as required and provide own transportation
- May be required to work flexible hours (extended hours, evening/weekend work)

**WHY JOIN ST. JOSEPH'S CARE GROUP**

St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG) offers a meaningful career for those seeking to make a difference in health care. As a leading provider of complex care, rehabilitation, long-term care, and mental health and addiction services, SJCG is recognized for its commitment to high-quality compassionate, and people-centred care.

Experience a rewarding career and lifestyle you’ll love at the heart of Thunder Bay Here’s what awaits you when you join our team:

- Enjoy a Competitive, Forward-Thinking Compensation Package: We offer salaries and benefits that recognize your talent and dedication.
- Secure Your Future: Become a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP) - our organization will contribute $1.26 for every $1 you invest in your pension, ensuring a strong, stable retirement for your future.
- Make Your Move Easier: We