Who We Are
The Mikisew Cree First Nation (Mikisew) has lived on the ancestral lands of the Athabasca Delta and Wood Buffalo National Park in northeastern Alberta since time immemorial. The lives of our members are linked to the land and to a close understanding of traditions, history and a natural way of life. Many of our members live in the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, and our traditional lands range over a large portion of Athabasca oil sands deposits.
Who You Are
Mikisew is currently seeking a dedicated Early Childhood Learning and Development Support Worker. Reporting to the Wellness Manager, the Early Childhood Learning and Development Support Worker will primarily be responsible for assisting with the design, development and facilitation of Indigenous-focused, culturally safe early years’ drop-in parent/caregiver participation program and outreach to support Mikisew Cree First Nation’s children aged 0-6.
This position is in Fort Chipewyan but a hybrid model of working remotely from Fort McMurray with frequent travel to community will be considered.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Incorporate and coordinate activity-based programming for the different stages of a child’s developmental growth including socio-emotional and cognitive development and inclusion for children who require additional support.
Assist with the design and facilitation of culturally safe, wholistic early years drop-in and outreach programming.
Provide activity coordination to involve Indigenous Elders/Knowledge Keepers to honor the teachings of our ancestors, incorporate traditional storytelling, culture, values, practices, Cree language, foods and child development activities into the program
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with representatives of community-based early childcare educators, health and service providers, community organizations, agencies and at the municipality, provincial and federal level.
Assist with curriculum development to provide educational opportunities for preschool
Prepare and submit annual work plans/budgets and manage program according to funding terms and conditions.
Maintain accurate records and statistical information and monthly program reporting. Assist with program evaluation and quality improvements
Prepare and utilize a variety of methods to promote the program in community
Research, integrate and share best practices in the early years field
Participate in Health Department Team meetings.
Other duties as required.
Qualifications
University degree with specialization in Health Sciences, Education or Social Services or a related field, or an acceptable combination of education, training and professional experience.
Early Childhood Education
Must have a valid First Aid and Infant CPR certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of employment).
Must have a valid Food Safe certificate (or ability to obtain within 90 days of employment).
Valid provincial class 5 driver’s license, and clean driver’s abstract required.
1 or more years’ experience working with families and children aged 0 – 6.
Working knowledge of Early Childhood Development and assessment tools.
Direct program delivery experience in the community social service sector with a demonstrated working knowledge of family-centered care, early intervention strategies, child development and community- based programs.
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the opportunities, barriers and challenges that impact
children’s outcomes.
Understanding about child development and the impact of disability and delay on growth and development.
Knowledge of Jordan’s Principle.
Understanding and knowledge of Indigenous culture, traditions, and social determinants of health.
Knowledge of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Call to Action #12.
Other Requirements
Ability to organize time, set priorities and multi-task to meet various timelines.
Ability to work in a team environment with children, youth and families, and other professionals.
Ability to be self-motivated, work well independently and be an active team member.
Physical ability to perform the duties.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Excel, Teams and virtual meeting platforms.
Possess exceptional judgement and always maintain high confidentiality in all interactions.
Must be reliable and be prepared to work irregular hours depending on job demands.
Previous related experience is considered a definite asset.
The ability to speak Cree is an asset.
Direct experience working with Mikisew Cree First Nation and in Fort Chipewyan is an asset.
Willing and able to work a flexible schedule and some overtime.
Willingness to participate in continuing education training.
Comply with WCB health and safety standards to maintain a healthy and safe environment, COVID-19 safety plan and willing to participate on Health and Safety Committee.
Satisfactory current Criminal Record, Vulnerable Sector and Child Intervention Record Checks.
Must sign Oath of Confidentiality form.
Position is open until a suitable candidate is found. All applications will be reviewed, although only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Mikisew Cree First Nation is committed to equal opportunity employment and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. Final candidates for this position will be required to complete a security screening, which includes a criminal background check.
Kinanâskomitin (Thank you) for your interest.
