Position: Band Designate (Social Worker)

Job Status: Full Time

Reporting Manager: Director of Health

Compensation:

Salary $69k-$84k (based on skills/experience).

2 weeks vacation

1 week paid off at Christmas

At Pictou Landing First Nation, we truly value our people, which means you will join an incredible team, in a supportive and positive environment. We are passionate about our roles in providing superior service within our community and take considerable pride in the goals we accomplish together. We invest in our people through supporting and encouraging professional development, so you have the tools to safely succeed in your role. To learn more about our community please visit, www.plfn.ca.

Job Overview

The Band Designate is responsible for acting on behalf of the Band to ensure (where possible) that children remain in the community, and families receive appropriate, culturally aligned resources and support. The Band Designate must know, understand, and follow the Children and Family Services Act of Nova Scotia, as well as other government policies, while ensuring that children remain connected with their family, community, and culture. This is a complex role, requiring an individual who can think and act quickly, ethically and culturally minded. It will involve developing strong relationships with the community and partner organizations that keep the needs of the child/children at the forefront.

Responsibilities

· Assist families in the identification of culturally appropriate services, programs, and training available to children and their families to address child welfare concerns

· Provide resources and support to families, such as shared goals, life skills, budget planning, and related activities

· Work collaboratively with other resources to support family healing and wellness, with the goal of preventing family breakdown

· Assist the Chief and Council in responding to Notices to the Band for band member children taken into care

· Attend court proceedings and provide submissions on behalf of the Band to identify community resources, customs, and support for children and their families

· Gather evidence, prepare arguments, and prepare witnesses and draft orders

· Provide reports to the Chief and Council on underutilized community resources, gaps, and recommendations to improve child support

· Prepare Plans of Care, including recommendations for child placement

· Ensure thorough completion of case documentation

· Accompany Service Workers during investigations when requested

· Take part in Service Plans, Plans of Care, or Service Development for Band Members

· Develop and maintain positive working relationship with Children and Family Services

· Liaise with internal and external stakeholders on various child protection plans and concerns

· Manage all records and files for clients, document and file all encounters, support services, and current state assessments as they relate to child welfare matters

· Compile data and complete reports, as required, for internal and external stakeholders

· Host community sessions and workshops to support the prevention of child welfare intervention

· Participate in meetings with Band Designates from other communities to identify effective plans and solutions related to child welfare matters

· Other responsibilities as assigned by the Director of Health.

Qualifications

· Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Social Work and Registration with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers required.

· Ideally 3-5 years' experience in a role of similar capacity

· Effective and efficient problem-solving techniques

· Strong knowledge and understanding of the Mi'kmaq interest in the Children and Family Services Act (Nova Scotia) and proceedings involving Mi'kmaw children and families and the federal Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families;

· Excellent written and oral communication skills

· Excellent organizational and time management skills

· Must be able to maintain a high degree of confidentiality

· Valid CPR/Basic First Aid Certification

· Clear Criminal Records, Child Abuse Registry, and Vulnerable Sector Checks

· Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Suites, especially in Word, Excel and Outlook

· Experience using data management systems, an asset.

· Experience working or living in First Nations Community, preferably PLFN considered a strong asset

· Valid driver's license and vehicle

We are committed to an equitable team member experience, opportunity, pay, and support for every employee. We want to ensure that every qualified individual has an equal opportunity to work with us. If you require an accommodation to our application process, please contact [email protected].

Thank you in advance to those that apply. We appreciate your interest. Only the most suitable will be contacted for interview.