Land-Based Coordinator

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 Land-Based Coordinator works in a wholistic, culturally grounded, and trauma-informed way. As part of the Indigenous Diversion Centre (IDC) team in Prince George, this role helps plan and lead cultural and land-based activities that support Indigenous people involved in the justice system.

The Land-Based Coordinator works closely with the Elder in Residence and the Cultural Coordinator to guide participants who want to stay connected to, or reconnect with, their culture. Through ceremony, teachings, and land-based practices, the Land-Based Coordinator helps support healing, balance, and cultural growth.

Preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan and set up regular cultural and land-based activities that help participants stay connected to culture and community.
• Work with the Elder in Residence and the Cultural Coordinator to support ceremonies and teachings, like sweats, drum making, medicine walks, and preparing traditional foods and hides.
• Teach how to prepare traditional foods such as canning, smoking, drying meat and fish, setting nets, and preparing animals after hunting.
• Make sure all activities follow proper cultural protocols and are done in a respectful way with guidance from the Elder in Residence.
• Lead and support land-based sessions with participants that support cultural learning and well-being.
• Follow privacy and safety rules as outlined in the Indigenous Diversion Centre's Operational Manual.
• Notice and report any risks or safety concerns to the Associate Director so they can be addressed as a team.
• Share cultural knowledge in a way that welcomes everyone, no matter their background or beliefs.
• Build and keep good relationships with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community partners.
• Include cultural teachings and values in all programming to support participants in a respectful and meaningful way.
• Provide help to Elders and Knowledge Keepers with travel plans, expenses, or basic technical support when needed.
• Do other related duties as assigned.
• Clear verbal and written communication.
• Active, careful listening when engaging with others.
• Builds good relationships and makes people feel safe and welcome.
• Keeps private information safe and handles sensitive situations carefully.
• Can work well alone, and within a team.
• Can effectively solve problems and take action when required.
• Works mostly independently, using good judgment, knowledge, and experience to make decisions and keep projects running smoothly. Follows policies and past practices as a guide, with some freedom to make choices as needed.
• Escalates decisions Associate Director when required.
• Work long hours using computer or other equipment.
• Work is performed primarily in the office with many land-based outings.

Qualifications and Work Experience:

• Practical experience in areas such as social services, Indigenous programs.
• Understands how to create a culturally safe and respectful environment for participants, coworkers, and Elders.
• Strong community connections and understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing and doing.
• Knowledge of local Indigenous cultures, traditions, and practices.
• Understands how to make a safe and respectful space for participants, coworkers, and Elders.
• Basic knowledge or willingness to learn Microsoft applications, including MSWord, Teams, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Valid class 5 BC Driver's License, the use of a vehicle and ability to travel.
• Occasional travel to attend meetings or training is required.
• A criminal reference check (CPIC) and Vulnerable Sector Clearance will be a condition of employment.
• Lifting up to 50 lbs.

Reporting: Associate Director of Northern Diversion and Healing

Location: Prince George - Diversion Centre

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

Pay Range: $60,000-$65,000 - salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Hours: 35 Hours per week, with variable pay.

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.