Reporting to the Director of Health, the Community Wellness Coordinator is a highly skilled professional responsible for leading community wellness initiatives with a special focus on mental health and substance use. This role integrates harm reduction principles, culturally informed practices, and trauma-informed care to support individuals, families, and the community.

This role facilitates access to wellness programming, mental health services, and substance use support ensuring alignment with Ktunaxa worldviews and best practices. The position plays a pivotal role in fostering resilience and well-being within the community through advocacy, education, capacity-building, and system navigation.

akisqnuk First Nation (AFN) is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation. AFN exists for the Community. Externally, we are here to serve the Community, and internally, we are our own Community, comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values. As a team, through our roles and departments, the AFN Administration works together to achieve our strategic plan and continue to progress and move our Community forward.

Note: This position is full-time (35 hours) working onsite at the office.

The primary responsibilities include:

• Program Development & Implementation:
  • Design and deliver culturally safe wellness programs focusing on prevention, mental health, harm reduction, crisis response, and cultural and land-based healing. Support community reintegration through pre-treatment and aftercare plans.
• Clinical Support:
  • Conduct assessments and create care plans addressing mental health and substance use challenges. Facilitate culturally safe interventions, crisis response, and system navigation for detox and treatment.
• Education & Prevention:
  • Develop and deliver workshops and resources on mental health, substance use, and wellness. Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and experts to provide culturally grounded education.
• Advocacy & Collaboration:
  • Build relationships with clients and families, work with interdisciplinary teams, and advocate for equitable access to care. Foster partnerships to enhance service delivery.
• Administration:
  • Maintain accurate records, coordinate program logistics, and collect data to evaluate and improve services.

Other duties as required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Social Work (or similar clinical education)
• Active registration and good standing with a provincial regulatory body (e.g., BCCSW)
• Additional certifications in trauma-informed care, harm reduction, suicide intervention, or Indigenous-focused health are assets.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in social work, mental health, or substance use counselling with a preference for experience in Indigenous communities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of harm reduction principles, cultural safety and Indigenous health frameworks.
• Experience conducting risk assessments and developing care plans.
• Strong customer services skills when working with employees and external stakeholders.
• Experience working with First Nations / Indigenous communities.
• Knowledge of language, history and culture of the Ktunaxa Nation is an asset.
• Strong problem-solving and diagnostic abilities.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to confidentiality.
• NOTE: A criminal check will be conducted on the successful applicant

What we offer:

• Competitive pay ($70,000-$80,000 per year, depending on education and experience)
• Discretionary office closure between Christmas Day and New Years Day, as determined by the Council each year
• Paid annual vacation
• Paid sick days
• Employer-paid Group Benefits which includes Life Insurance, Health and Dental benefits, Employee and Family Assistance Program, Short- and Long-Term Disability, available after 3 months of service
• Matched RPP program with employer matching up to 5.5% of the employees salary, available after 4 months of service
• Live and work in the most beautiful place in British Columbia

Akisqnuk supports a diverse and inclusive work environment and welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. You must be legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.