Position: Indigenous Elder

Status: Temporary-Full-Time Contract (6months) – In Scope

Reports to: Community Services Supervisor

Workplace: Sault Ste. Marie (with some travel across Algoma service area)

Worktype: In-Person (with travel; occasional evenings/weekends)

Compensation: $30.09-36.47

Reference #: ADM-0925-01

Posting Date: September 25, 2026

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to a Clinical Manager and working in collaboration with the Indigenous Outreach Worker, the Indigenous Elder provides cultural leadership grounded in Anishinaabe knowledge, values, and traditions within a non-Indigenous organization that serves Indigenous peoples. The Elder advances Algoma Family Service’s (AFS) commitments to Truth and Reconciliation by imparting Indigenous wisdom, challenging preconceptions, and supporting improvements to services, frameworks, and policies to create culturally secure environments across AFS programs. This role includes culturally informed guidance to case practice; individual and group support; ceremony, teachings, land-based learning, and protocol advice; mentorship of staff; attendance at program events; and co-development of cultural programming for children and youth.

Within the Live-In Treatment Program, the Elder assists staff in delivering AFS’s blended model of care that integrates traditional Indigenous approaches to well-being with evidence-informed western practices, strengthening youths’ connection to identity and culture while engaging in treatment and recovery.

MINIMUM EDUCATION

· Social Service Worker Diploma with an Indigenous Specialization.



A University degree in Indigenous Studies or BSW is preferred.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE

· A minimum of three (3) years’ experience working with Indigenous children, youth, and families in a cultural context within a multi-disciplinary, team-based environment.

· Candidates with extensive practical experience (10 years or more) will be considered on par with formal educational credentials.

INDIGENOUS-SPECIFIC PREFERENCE

· Preference will be given to candidates who are First Nations, Inuit, or Métis, and who are recognized by their community as an Elder/Knowledge Keeper.

· To support respectful hiring practices, candidates may be asked to provide community-based references or letters (e.g., from rights-bearing Indigenous communities/organizations) that confirm community recognition.

QUALIFICATIONS

· Recognition as an Elder/Knowledge Keeper by your community, with demonstrated experience providing teachings, ceremony, and cultural support.

· Deep knowledge of Anishinaabe culture; Anishinaabemowin language is an asset; strong understanding of traditional values, seasonal cycles, and local community protocols.

· Demonstrated ability to lead ceremonies, teachings, land-based learning, and provide protocol guidance in program settings.





· Experience working with children, youth, families, and staff in Indigenous service settings (child & family services, child welfare, education, health, youth justice, and/or community programs).

· Ability to travel within the Agency’s service area and work some evenings/weekends aligned to community schedules and ceremonies.

· Strong relationship-building, listening, and facilitation skills; ability to work across diverse cultural and spiritual practices with respect.

· Understanding of cultural safety, trauma-informed practice, and the impacts of colonialism, residential schools, and intergenerational trauma on families and communities.

· Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.

· Criminal Record Check with Broad Sector Check (and any additional checks as required).

· First Aid/CPR, CPI, and ASIST training is an asset

Duties and Responsibilities: Please refer to the on our website, algomafamilyservices.ca

This position falls within the bargaining unit represented by the OPSEU.

Algoma Family Services (AFS) is dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live and serve. AFS encourages applications from all qualified individuals. Applicants who may require accommodation during the selection process are encouraged to notify HR when contacted for an interview.

PLEASE SEND YOUR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO [email protected] QUOTING REFERENCE # ADM-0925-01

Pay: $30.09-$36.47 per hour

Work Location: In person

📌 Indigenous Elder (Sault Ste. Marie)
🏢 Algoma Family Services
📍 Sault Ste. Marie