Competition #2025-126
Category: Full-Time Term until March 31st, 2026, with possibility of extension
Closing Date: January 5, 2026
Position Summary
Under the direction of the Director of Service Delivery, the Indian Residential School (IRS) Cultural Worker provides culturally grounded emotional, spiritual, and community support to First Nation IRS survivors and their families. This role centers Indigenous cultural knowledge, ceremony, and traditional healing as core components of the healing journey. The IRS Cultural Worker will help restore cultural connections, support survivors in accessing culturally safe services, and strengthen community awareness of the lasting impacts of the Residential School System.
Key Responsibilities
Client Support and Advocacy
Design personalized support plans that address each client’s specific needs, emphasizing holistic well-being.
Evaluate clients' relevant strengths and areas for skill development.
Assist clients to evaluate their options and create actionable plans while offering necessary support and assistance.
Meet with clients to review their progress, offer support, and address any challenges or concerns they may encounter.
Connect clients with health, mental health, and social services, advocating on their behalf when needed.
Cultural and Community Engagement
Facilitate connection to First Nation cultural practices, Elders, and community-based resources.
Refer clients to counselling, traditional healing practices, and support groups.
Coordinate and participate in cultural activities, workshops, and healing circles.
Promote cultural awareness through traditional healing within programming.
Education and Outreach
Increase community awareness of the impacts of Indian Residential Schools (IRS) and the support services available.
Collaborate with community organizations to establish a network of services for survivors and their families.
Participate in training and professional development to remain knowledgeable about best practices in Indigenous support work
Participate in training and professional development to remain knowledgeable about best practices in First Nation support work.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Deep understanding of First Nation cultures, ceremonies, languages, and traditional teachings; formal education is a strong asset but not required.
Proven experience supporting First Nation individuals, families, or communities in healing or wellness settings.
Strong understanding of the history and impacts of the Indian Residential School System and intergenerational trauma.
Knowledge of trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and mental health resources.
Strong communication, relationship-building, and advocacy skills.
Ability to work independently, collaboratively, and in community-based settings.
Comfortable participating in ceremonies, cultural events, and land-based programming.
Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office preferred).
Able to maintain confidentiality, boundaries, and ethical practices.
Valid Class 5 driver’s license and reliable vehicle.
Willingness to travel within Manitoba and work occasional evenings/weekends.
Current satisfactory Criminal Record Check and Clear Child Abuse Check.
Interested applicants are invited to submit their cover letter identifying the position title and quote competition number applying for, qualifications, and resume, along with 3 professional reference listings (including a most recent employer reference) by January 5 2026 4:00 p.m. to:
Human Resources
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
14th Floor, 275 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 2B3
Quote Competition #2025-126 in your application.
For best results, submit your application to BambooHR
https://manitobachiefs.com/about/job-opportunities/
We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. No phone calls will be accepted.
Preference will be given to First Nations people. If successful, applicants will be asked to verify citizenship documentation issued by a First Nation or government-issued documentation or affirmation from the Inuit, Métis, or non-status Indigenous community with which they identify.
Please visit our website at www.manitobachiefs.com
