POSITION SUMMARY:

The First Nations Band Representative for Child, Youth and Family Services acts as an official advocate and rights-based representative for Timiskaming First Nation children, youth, and families involved in child welfare systems in Ontario and Quebec.

The position ensures that the rights, cultural identity, safety, and best interests of First Nations children and youth are protected in all interactions with child protection agencies, courts, foster care systems, and related services.

The Representative provides advocacy, system navigation, case monitoring, interagency coordination, and culturally grounded support, ensuring that decisions reflect First Nations values, community connections, and the best interests of the child.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

· Knowledge of Bill C-92

· Knowledge of relevant challenges and issues affecting First Nations

· Knowledge of recent developments within Child Welfare sector regarding Indigenous families and children

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

· BSW and/or College Diploma in Social Work/Law Clerk/Child and Youth Worker or related field.

· Bilingual (English and French).

· Must possess a valid driver’s license and have access to a reliable vehicle and be willing to work flexible hours and travel with minimal notice.

· Must provide a Criminal Reference Check and Vulnerable Sector Check.

KEY RESPONSIBLITIES:

Child & Youth Advocacy

- Represent and advocate for TFN children and youth involved with child welfare agencies (Ontario and Quebec)
- Ensure the child’s best interests are upheld in all case planning, placements, and service decisions
- Attend child protection meetings, case conferences, and court-related proceedings as required
- Advocate for least disruptive, culturally appropriate placements (family, kinship, or First Nations community-based care)
- Work with youth and young adults who are aging out or have aged out of care to the age of 26

System Navigation & Representation

- Act as liaison between:
- Child protection agencies (CAS, DPJ, or equivalent)




- Courts and legal systems
- Foster care agencies and residential placements
- Health, education, and social service systems
- Ensure interprovincial coordination between Ontario and Quebec systems
- Monitor compliance with child welfare legislation and Indigenous rights frameworks

Cultural Safety & Identity Protection

- Advocate for preservation of First Nations identity, language, and cultural continuity
- Ensure cultural plans are developed and followed for each child/youth
- Facilitate involvement of Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and cultural supports
- Promote placement within kinship care or First Nations-approved homes whenever possible

Case Monitoring & Documentation

- Maintain detailed, confidential case records for each child/youth
- Track placement stability, service plans, and court orders
- Document concerns regarding service gaps, safety risks, or rights violations
- Prepare reports for Band leadership, funding bodies, and interagency partners

Family Engagement & Support

- Support parents, guardians, and extended family in navigating child welfare systems
- Provide education on parental rights and responsibilities
- Assist families in reunification planning where applicable
- Promote family preservation and prevention-focused interventions

Crisis Intervention & Urgent Response

- Respond to urgent child protection matters, including apprehensions or placement disruptions
- Advocate for immediate culturally safe placements
- Coordinate emergency supports for children and families in crisis situations
- Ensure appropriate legal and procedural safeguards are followed

Interagency Collaboration

- Participate in multidisciplinary case conferences and planning meetings
- Work with:
- Child protection workers
- Legal counsel
- Healthcare providers
- Schools and youth services
- Advocate for coordinated trauma-informed service delivery

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Pay: $34.52-$48.77 per hour

Benefits

- Company pension
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care

Work Location: In person

📌 First Nation Band Child and Youth Representative (Notre-Dame-du-Nord)
🏢 Timiskaming First Nation
📍 Notre-Dame-du-Nord