Position Title: Student Navigator - Trades Program

Hours of Work: Monday to Friday some weekends

Location: Centennial Sq. Campus

Reports To: Trades Manager

Appointment: Full-Time

Wage: $47,320

WHO WE ARE:

Oshki-Wenjack’s mission building and empowering First Nations futures.

VISION STATEMENT

Oshki-Wenjack’s vision is to strengthen Nations through First Nations education

POSITION SUMMARY The Student Navigator under the Trades Program will contribute to the overall success of Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute by developing a Trades Student Success strategy that offers a range of student support services to Oshki-Wenjack Level Up students in coordination with Program Coordinators, Faculty, College Partners, and others as required. Under the direction of the Trades Manager, the Student Navigator’s primary focus is to provide support to Oshki-Wenjack Level Up students so they may successfully complete their course requirements that will lead to their graduation and employment.

The Student

Navigator will be required to travel extensively to communities to support the needs of students.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Coordinate and implement the Level Up Student Success Initiative that includes the:

· Travel to Nishnawbe Aski Nation communities to provide student support for success, program promotion and student recruitment and other meetings as may be required.

· Travel to training locations and supervise and mentor students for the duration of their apprenticeship training and work placement.

· Provide student orientation for each cohort.

· Maintain open and regular communication with students through emails, phone calls and or social media if required.

· Assist students in accessing supports through different agencies as required; make referrals as deemed necessary.

· Provide advocacy services for students as required to ensure their retention and success.

· Prepare, draft, and write letters of support for students needs as required.

· Conduct research for available bursaries; convey information to the students and provide guidance and support throughout the application process.

· Attend meetings and work closely with the trades team to identify student retention and success requirements.

· Report any barriers students may be experiencing.

· Draft reports for Director as required.

· Aid students as required to ensure their retention and success.

· Assist in revising and editing student handbook in collaboration with the trades team.

· Liaise with Nishnawbe Aski Nation community leaders, educators, employers, college partners and key groups.

· Participate in program promotion and student recruitment activities.





· Perform case management duties.

Other Duties & Responsibilities

· Take personal responsibility to increase sensitivity, awareness, and implementation of Oshki-Wenjack’s cultural teachings and organizational practices in both professional conduct and work-related deliverables.

· Access and utilize Elders and Knowledge holders for teachings and guidance as it relates to work deliverables.

· Be prepared to work in conjunction with the philosophy and mandate of the Institute.

· Adhere to the Policies and Procedures as set by the Institute.

· Always maintain professionalism.

· Adhere to the Code of Ethics and positive relationship building.

· Regular attendance and conduct at work according to the requirements of Oshki-Wenjack’s Policies and Procedures.

· Any other duties as requested by the Trades Manager, or designate, commensurate with role.

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

Specific Knowledge

· Knowledge of Indigenous culture, traditions, and Indigenous communities.

· Barriers that may affect or relate to First Nation students.

· Ability to implement the program promotion activities and recruitment strategy.

· Demonstrated ability to build relationships with community members to recruit and retain students.

· Ability to secure apprenticeships between students and potential sponsors/employers.

· Report writing

· Knowledge of community resources

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

· A diploma or degree in a related field (e.g., Aboriginal Community Advocacy, Social Service Worker, Addiction and Mental Health).

· A minimum of three years of related experience.

· Equivalents in experience may be considered.

· 1-3 years of experience working in an Indigenous organization with a focus on northern communities.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Preferred

· Ability to speak an Indigenous Language is an asset.

· Prior knowledge and experience working with Ontario’s apprenticeship system.

WORKING CONDITIONS The Student Navigator Trades Program may work at multiple work locations in northern Ontario remote communities. The work environment may be indoor and outdoors, and in varied weather conditions.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The Student Navigator Trades Program is based at the Centennial Square Campus; however,



travelling to remote communities will be required. Working across other sites may also be required from time to time.

Health & Safety

All employees are required to carry out their duties in a manner that does not adversely affect their own health and safety and that of others by reporting all potential hazards; and all incidents and injuries; as well as co-operating with any measures introduced in the workplace to improve health and safety.

Schedule

· 8-hour shift

· Day shift

· Monday to Friday

· Weekends

· Overtime

· In-person

Experience

· 1-2 years

License/ Certification

· N/A

Employment is subject to:

· Proof of education requirements

· Must sign an Oath of Confidentiality

· Must be willing to work a flexible 35-hour work week.

· Oshki-Wenjack is committed on implementing measures to protect its community members, staff, and other stakeholders from COVID-19. As a result, Oshki-Wenjack has implemented a mandatory vaccination policy. Exemptions will be made for those with a valid medical exemption; proof of the exemption will be required.

Why Work at Oshki‑Wenjack?

Oshki‑Pimache‑O‑Win: The Wenjack Education Institute offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, community‑driven change while advancing Indigenous education, self‑determination, and learner success. Our work is grounded in Indigenous values of care, respect, accountability, and collective wellbeing, and we are committed to fostering a culturally secure, supportive, and collaborative workplace.

We offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package, including:

· Health, dental, and vision coverage

· Health Care Spending Account

· Two (2) weeks of vacation

· Two (2) week Christmas closure in addition to vacation days

· One (1) week of paid sick time

· Three (3) paid personal days

· Professional development opportunities

· Group activities that support connection, wellness, and team building

· 5% Matching RPP

At Oshki‑Wenjack, employees are supported to grow professionally while contributing to work that matters strengthening Indigenous education, supporting NAN communities, and helping shape the future of Indigenous postsecondary education.

We are committed and dedicated in building a workforce that reflects the demographics that we serve. In alignment with our Mission and Mandate and in accordance with Ontario Human Rights code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, preference will be given to candidates of Indigenous ancestry. Candidates are encouraged to self identify as being of Indigenous ancestry (First Nation, Metis, or Inuit).

Closing Date: Open until filled.

📌 Student Trades Navigator (Thunder Bay)
🏢 Oshki Wenjack
📍 Thunder Bay