Tŝilhqot’in Language Manager

Tŝilhqot’in Language Manager

Classification: Permanent, Full time

Salary: $85,000 - $95,000

Location: Williams Lake, BC and six Tŝilhqot’in Communities

Deadline: May 15, 2025

The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) is the official First Nations government serving the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. TNG is located in Williams Lake, British Columbia and serves six communities, including ʔEsdilagh, Tŝideldel, Yuneŝit'in, Tl'etinqox, Xeni Gwet'in, and Tl'esqox.

TNG is currently hiring a Tŝilhqot'in Language Manager to lead the Nation’s language revitalization efforts. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing and advancing the Nation’s Language Revitalization Plan, working collaboratively with Elders, community members, leadership, and language learners to strengthen, protect, and promote the Tŝilhqot’in language for future generations.

Key Responsibilities

1. Program Development & Implementation:
   → Lead the development and implementation of the Tŝilhqot’in Language Revitalization Plan.
   → Work with Elders, fluent speakers, language keepers, and educators to create and expand language programs.
   → Establish, chair, and coordinate a Tŝilhqot’in Language Advisory comprised of language learners, knowledge keepers, and community representatives.
   → Identify opportunities for language integration within education systems, governance, and cultural programs.
   → Support the creation and implementation of language immersion programs for all age groups, including school-age children and adult learners.
   → Develop and maintain an archive of Tŝilhqot’in language materials, ensuring proper documentation and preservation.
2. Community Engagement & Collaboration:
   → Engage with the Tŝilhqot’in Leadership, Elders, and Communities to develop direction and priorities for language initiatives.
   → Foster relationships with educational institutions, language researchers, and government bodies to secure support and resources for language initiatives.
   → Develop and deliver workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs for community members and language learners.
   → Work with schools, community programs, and local organizations to promote and integrate Tŝilhqot’in language and culture.
3. Funding & Budget Management:
   → Research and apply for funding opportunities to support language revitalization efforts.
   → Prepare and submit grant proposals and ensure compliance with funding agreements.
   → Develop and manage program budgets, ensuring financial accountability and efficiency.
   → Monitor financial expenditures, maintain records, and provide reports to leadership and funding agencies as required.
4. Technology & Resource Development:
   → Oversee the creation of Tŝilhqot’in language teaching materials, including digital resources, textbooks, dictionaries, and multimedia content.
   → Utilize technology to develop innovative methods for language learning and preservation.
   → Ensure proper archiving and accessibility of recorded language materials, including oral histories and Elder interviews.
5. Supervisory Responsibilities:
   → Manage and oversee language staff, language instructors, and contractors.
   → Provide mentorship, training, and performance evaluations for language program staff.
   → Set goals and deadlines that align with the organization’s language revitalization strategy.

Requirements

1. Knowledge of the Tŝilhqot’in language and culture is a strong asset.
2. Post-secondary degree or diploma in Indigenous Language Revitalization, Linguistics, Education, or a related field (equivalencies and relevant experience will be considered).
3. Minimum 5 years of experience in language revitalization, Indigenous education, or community language programs.
4. Strong knowledge of First Nations language preservation methodologies and Indigenous language policies.
5. Experience in program development, grant writing, and budget management.
6. Ability to work effectively with Elders, community members, and leadership.
7. Strong project management and organizational skills.
8. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
9. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and language documentation software.
10. Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License and willingness to travel to Tŝilhqot’in communities.

About Williams Lake, BC

The beautiful city of Williams Lake serves as the hub for business, shopping, and industries such as forestry and mining in the Cariboo-Chilcotin region. It is home to the annual Williams Lake Stampede and offers outdoor enthusiasts access to hiking, fishing, and adventure opportunities in Tŝilhqot’in Territory, a hidden gem rich in wildlife and natural beauty.

About the Benefits

1. Comprehensive employee health benefits
2. Employer-matching pension plan
3. Incremental vacation: 2 weeks vacation + additional 2 weeks paid time off at Christmas + 13 stat holidays
4. Family-oriented work environment
5. Vehicle provided for travel, for work purposes

Working Conditions

1. Regular travel to Tŝilhqot’in communities.
2. Ability to work in various environments, including outdoor cultural settings.
3. Public speaking and presenting may be required.
4. Manual dexterity required for computer and technology use.
5. Lifting or moving up to 50 lbs may be required.

Please send a cover letter, resume and 3 references to:

Jenai Nolin
Human Resources Generalist & Recruitment
Tŝilhqot’in National Government
1729 South Lakeside Drive
Williams Lake, BC V2G 3A9
Email: jenainolin@tsilhqotin.ca

Preference will be given to those of Aboriginal Ancestry - per Section 16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.