Health Director

Position Summary

The Health Director is a key leadership role responsible for advancing the health and wellness of Heart Lake First Nation. With deep knowledge of the unique health challenges and opportunities facing our community, the Health Director ensures the development and delivery of culturally relevant and safe programs and services. The successful candidate will understand the political, cultural, and spiritual protocols of our Nation and uphold the vision of our leadership.

This position leads a multidisciplinary health team, including but not limited to: Community Health Nurse, Medical Transportation Administrator and Driver, NNADAP Worker, Cultural Coordinator, Health Unit Clerk, Custodian, contracted Psychologist, and other visiting professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership in planning, organizing, implementing, maintaining, and evaluating community health and wellness programs.
• Engage community members and health system professionals to guide program development and evaluation.
• Build strong and respectful working relationships with Chief & Council, community members, and external stakeholders, including regional health partners and government agencies.
• Communicate and coordinate response during emergency, trauma, or crisis situations, directly or indirectly.
• Oversee and update emergency preparedness and pandemic response planning.
• Ensure programs comply with applicable legislation, funding agreements, and internal policies.
• Provide financial oversight, including budgeting, expenditure tracking, and seeking diverse and sustainable funding sources.
• Prepare and submit regular reports to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), Health Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), and other funding organizations.
• Supervise and support health staff and contractors through effective team leadership, coaching, conflict resolution, and staff development.
• Develop and monitor work plans; prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
• Promote and model a healthy, balanced lifestyle grounded in cultural values and wellness practices.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and exercise good judgment in handling sensitive matters.

Qualifications and Experience

• A university degree in Human Services, Health Sciences, Nursing, or a related field. A combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Minimum 5 years of recent, relevant experience in a health or social services setting, including program development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Demonstrated experience leading culturally appropriate and community-based health initiatives.
• Proven ability in people management, including hiring, coaching, performance management, and team development.
• Experience working in First Nations communities and knowledge of Indigenous health priorities.
• Familiarity with federal and provincial health funding programs and reporting obligations.
• Experience with addictions, mental wellness, or counselling is an asset.

Work Schedule

• Full-time position, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., located at Heart Lake First Nation.
• Some evening programs are expected as part of regular duties.
• Participation in 3–4 weekend events per year is required; time off in lieu will be provided.

Requirements

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking and group facilitation.
• Valid Class 5 Driver's License and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Clear Criminal Record Check, Child Welfare Check, and Driver's Abstract (required upon hiring).

Remuneration

Salary is commensurate with education, experience, and working conditions. Terms to be negotiated with the successful candidate.

Application Process:

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to:

John Fleming, Band Administrator

Email:

Please, no phone calls.

Closing Date: December 23, 2025

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $70,542.00-$104,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Commuter benefits
• Disability insurance
• Extended health care
• Life insurance

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Lac La Biche, AB: reliably commute or be willing to relocate with an employer-provided relocation package (required)

Experience:

• work in an Indigenous organization or relevant: 1 year (required)

Willingness to travel:

• 75% (required)

Work Location: In person