Working with different orders of government, specifically those of First Nations and Métis Nations, and amongst departments, this position will support the Manager of Intergovernmental Affairs, the Chief Commissioner, Mayor, and Council with the development and implementation of a framework to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action that are directed to municipal governments and support an increase in Indigenous cultural competency throughout the organization.
This role may be eligible to participate in our hybrid work program. The successful candidate will be required to reside within 2 hours of Sherwood Park, Alberta.
Responsibilities:
- Participate in Indigenous and other outreach activities, representing the County’s perspective, while supporting the development of a variety of partner driven initiatives
- Act as the key liaison with the Indigenous Advisory Committee. This includes supporting this administrative committee through meetings, projects, and activities to achieve the committee’s goals and purpose.
- Lead/participate in the delivery of internal and external initiatives/projects as assigned
- Liaise with other municipalities and jurisdictions and foster information-sharing and collaboration where applicable
- Identify and support opportunities for staff to learn and understand the history of Indigenous peoples and help identify opportunities for meaningful acts of reconciliation
- Identify synergies and alignment with Indigenous Peoples’ perspectives on corporate initiatives related to diversity, inclusion, racism, systemic barriers, biases, and accessibility for all
- Facilitate and invite conversations to build relationships and partnerships with Indigenous community members, Leaders and/or Elders, and associated organizations
- Establish and lead working teams and related activities to advance the County’s strategic goals and priorities
- Broker the development and implementation of responses/resolutions to issues/opportunities identified through discussions with internal and external working groups
- Provide content expertise and support to Council and Administration in the development and delivery of strategies and initiatives which improve the liveability of Indigenous Peoples in Strathcona County
- Provide advice and guidance to County departments in the development of work plans and associated activities to encourage incorporating Indigenous perspectives
- Provide input in the development of strategy/policy development for Indigenous initiatives
Qualifications and Skills:
- Post-Secondary Diploma or Degree in Arts, Humanities, Community Development, Native/Indigenous Studies, or an equivalent recognized Degree
- Minimum seven years progressively responsible experience in Indigenous relations and engagement, working with or in Indigenous communities.
- Master’s degree is considered an asset
- Ability to speak an Indigenous language is an asset
- Ability to work independently in both thought and action, in research, analytical techniques, consulting and policy interpretation and development, issue identification, and problem solving are required
- Ability to research, analyze, and put into context complex regional, provincial, and national issues and influence senior administration to understand and identify strategic opportunities
- Extensive knowledge of Indigenous history and culture, significant knowledge of cultural protocols, with Indigenous communities (i.e., First Nations, Métis and Inuit settlements and reserves)
- Extensive knowledge of “duty to consult” principles and understanding their application
- Knowledge of current legal climate and landmark cases affecting rights-based arguments
- Significant skills and understanding in communication tools which includes the use of social media
- Significant level of political acumen and ability to navigate varying levels of bureaucracy
- Excellent project and process management skills; ability to effectively gather, synthesize, integrate, and interpret multi-faceted information from a wide range of sources/perspectives
- Excellent relationship building, communication, report writing, facilitation, presentation and interpersonal skills required, proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
Conditions of Employment:
- Valid Alberta Class 5 driver’s licence and submission of a 5-year Driver’s Abstract with less than 7 demerits (or provincial equivalent). Must obtain business auto insurance for personal vehicle use on County business
Salary Range: $89,653.20 - $112,112.00
Who we are:
Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta. Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, fairness, and cooperation.
Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position)
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Extended health and dental coverage
- Health and wellness spending account
- Life and disability insurance and critical illness programs
- Retirement and pension programs
- Paid and unpaid leave programs
- Earned day off program
- Employee and family assistance program
- Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities.
- Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace.
Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.
This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.
Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
