Family Program Coordinator (Term)

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

Reporting to the Early Years Manager, this full-time position is responsible for coordinating programming for families with children under the age of six (6) years for daytime programs and up to age eleven for evening programs in accordance with the principles of the Aboriginal Head Start On-Reserve program.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Diploma in Indigenous studies/social services and/or;
• Certificate in ECE, ECD, Human Services or Equivalent
• Training in areas relating, but not limited to: FASD, Disabilities, Ages and Stages, Growing Great Kids, Invest in Kids, Moe the Mouse, Granny and Grandpa, crafts, etc.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience working with Indigenous families, youth and/or children in a healing and wellness capacity
• Program facilitation experience required
• Curriculum development or theme development experience required
• Experience in liaison with outside agencies and services
• Experience working in a First Nation Community is considered an asset
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check, with Vulnerable Sector Search, with results acceptable to WFN
• Valid First Aid
• Evidence of level of compliance with the BC provincial immunization and tuberculosis control program required by licensing.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable Drivers Abstract and reliable transportation
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation.

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducts needs assessment with community families at least yearly to evaluate program and determine program direction
• Organizes weekly evening and daytime parenting education and gatherings according to the needs assessment results
• Coordinates menu selection and meal preparation in collaboration with the Food & Services Coordinator
• Provides curriculum-based programming under the direction of Early Years Manager
• Incorporates the six components of a Head Start program into curriculum, in conjunction with the Family Language Program Coordinator
• Communicates with families via newsletter, social media, phone and WFN website
• Provides direction and support to Family Program Elder
• Provides direction and supervision to child care workers as needed
• Maintains sign-in registry and enters details in Health system
• Prepares reports as directed
• Creates posters, advertisements, and other materials for the Early Years Programs
• Attends regular staff in-service and development meetings as directed
• Gathers and inputs statistic data into the Mustimuhw program; supports Early Years staff with the program
• Provides outreach services to clients as required and assigned
• Maintains a photo diary of all programs
• Supports and participates in Community events i.e.: parent conference, children’s programs
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies, standards, and procedures and as directed by the Early Years Manager

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Working knowledge of Child Development and the principles of the Aboriginal Head Start On-Reserve Program
• Ability and knowledge to teach the Syilx culture and nqilxʷcn language to families and young children in a fun and innovative manner
• Speaker of the Syilx language, an asset
• Strong knowledge and awareness of Indigenous culture and history, with emphasis on family violence, child welfare, the impacts of trauma, Indigenous youth engagement and community outreach
• Creative and effective facilitator with proven experience
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Moderate to intermediate level of proficiency with Microsoft Word, Publisher, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Ability to be client-focused, and handle a number of issues at the same time
• Ability to consistently conduct oneself with tact and discretion in all matters
• Ability to identify, maintain and protect the integrity of confidential information
• Database management and record keeping
• Acceptable criminal record check with vulnerable sector search
• Empathetic, solution-focused, creative
• Ability to be an excellent team member, and the ability to work independently

The median salary for this position is $64,753.

This is a term position ending on March 31, 2026.

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 Monday, November 11, 2024.

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.