Indigenous Health Coordinator

Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Indigenous Health Coordinator is responsible for providing and building support services for community and advocating on behalf of the community members. This position focuses on developing community-based services through collaboration with external resources such as Ministry of Children & Family Development (MCFD), Interior Health (IH), and Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) and navigation of relevant systems and partners. The Indigenous Health Coordinator will have an Indigenous client and family centered care model, and will work as part of a multidisciplinary Health and Wellness team to provide culturally appropriate support and guidance.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Degree in social work, health care or relevant field as applicable or an applicable alternative combination of education, experience and training
• Two (2) years of recent, related work experience in health care setting or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Experience in direct service, community-based healthcare delivery systems and working with Indigenous people and leadership (Including Elders, Bands, Tribal Councils, Aboriginal Service Providers etc.)
• Experience with children and adults who have multiple needs
• An equivalent combination of education & experience may be considered

REQUIREMENTS

• Current registration with BC College of Social Worker as a Registered Social Worker (RSW) required
• Acceptable Criminal Record check with Vulnerable Sector check required
• Current valid B.C. driver’s license and drivers abstract, and access to reliable transportation is required
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Provides comprehensive assessment, care planning, advocacy, intervention and treatment coordination for all clients
• Acts as an advocate for clients and families, assisting the client and staff to address cultural, historical, and other requirements needed to ensure cultural safety and preservation
• Practices care that is sensitive to the various clients may have in their experiences and responses due to their heritage, socioeconomic situation, ethnicity and cultural background
• Facilitates or co-facilitates groups and workshops
• Working with other WFN Community Services departments to design and deliver workshops targeting parenting, family wellness, trauma, addictions, poverty, special needs, etc.
• Provides regular updates and discussion to Community Health Nurse Supervisor regarding capacity needs, anticipated risks, issues and any other related activities or needs expressed by community and partners
• Provides referrals for individuals or families to external agencies, internal services, traditional healers and other culturally relevant resources
• Ensures individual/family/community confidentiality and privacy in accordance with professional regulatory guidelines and following standards of practice and legal requirements
• Maintain strong working relationships with external partners including (but not limited to), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), Interior Health (IH), Primary Care Network (PCN) and other internal agencies as required
• Advocate on behalf of clients for service, equipment, navigation and funding including provincial services, Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) and/or other services as required
• Provide assistance to clients when completing applications to local, provincial or federal agencies/services; including Medical Services Plan (MSP), Person with Disabilities (PWD), Day School, and/or 60’s Scoop, etc.
• Presents professionalism when representing Westbank First Nation internally and externally
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies, standards and procedures

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Strong business acumen with thorough problem solving, decision-making and time management skills
• Strong understanding of the history of colonization and the resultant child welfare issues
• Familiarity with traditional healing practices, customs, values and traditions of the Syilx/Okanagan people
• Comprehensive knowledge of case management and practice within a client and family-oriented care model
• Ability to navigate a dynamic, fast pace environment
• Computer literate with experience in electronic client file entry
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary health care providers and community partners
• Excellent oral & written communication and interpersonal skills
• Practices cultural safety and agility
• Actively uses critical self-reflection and empathy in practice
• An understanding of Indigenous communities and their inherent challenges and barriers
• Adheres to a WFN’s community driven vision, values and beliefs
• Knowledge of relevant socio-historical events relevant to First Nations in Canada

The median salary for this position is $80,947

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at https://www.wfn.ca.

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday, July 27, 2025

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.