Food Security Worker

Position Title:    FOOD SECURITY WORKER

Reports to: Manager, Social Services

Job Overview

Reporting to the Manager, Social Services, the Food Security Worker is responsible for assisting in food security initiatives empowering Haisla Nation communities to contribute to their own food sovereignty,

to produce food locally, to assist with access to traditional foods and continuation of traditional food sharing networks. This role secures access to healthy and traditional foods and works to build sustainable food systems through education, community engagement, and partnerships.

Organizational Status

The Haisla Nation is the band government of the Haisla people. Our mission is to build a powerful, prosperous and proud community, healthy in mind, body and spirit. We believe in building a strong and thriving community, with healthy and happy members and a sustained and prosperous environment. We are about 2023+ people, with approximately 700 living in Kitamaat Village. We have lived off the land and waters of our traditional territory for thousands of years, and it remains the focus of all we do. 

Duties & Responsibilities

Food Security Initiatives:

• Support and promote community-based food security initiatives, such as community gardens, greenhouses, and traditional food gathering.
• Contribute to ensuring traditional food practices, such as fishing, hunting, and gathering, are documented.
• Assist in advocating for food sovereignty by supporting local food production, reducing reliance on external food sources, and addressing barriers to food access.
• Assist with preparation of workshops, events, and educational sessions relating to food security and access.
• Engage with community members to identify food security needs and contribute to developing programming that aligns with their goals and values.
• Collaborate with schools, health departments, and community organizations to integrate food security education into broader community development efforts.
• Work with local food banks, grocery stores, and suppliers to improve access to affordable, nutritious food for the community.
• Work with food distribution programs, such as food boxes or meal services, for vulnerable community members.
• Assist in establishing or enhancing relationships with local food co-ops, markets, or other systems that provide the community with better access to fresh, local foods.
• Assist with accessing funding from government programs, foundations, or other sources to support food security initiatives.
• Participate in regional and provincial food security networks, conferences, and knowledge-sharing forums.

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain confidentiality and ensure the privacy and security of records.
• Provide feedback that helps to track and evaluate the impact of food security programs on the health and wellness of the community.
• Assist in preparation of reports and presentations for community leadership, funders, and partners to demonstrate program successes and areas for improvement.
• Gather data on food security challenges and opportunities to inform future programming.
• Perform other tasks within scope of position as required.

Skills & Qualifications

• High School Diploma supplemented by additional certificates and/or experience in Agriculture, Community Development or Nutrition.
• 1 to 3 years of recent related experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding of First Nations food systems, traditional practices, and cultural values.
• Knowledge of food sovereignty, sustainable agriculture, and food security principles.
• Strong relationship building skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Strong planning, organization and time management skills with ability to be self-directed.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and ability to exercise tact, diplomacy, discretion and adherence to confidentiality requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and various databases, search engines and Outlook/email.
• Knowledge of First Nations Culture and working in a First Nation's community is an asset.
• Satisfactory completion of criminal records check (with vulnerable sector screening if relevant).

Salary Range: $22.95/hr - $28.35/hr

Position Type: Full-time

Closing Date: Will remain open until the position is filled. 

While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.