Position Title: Director, Children and Families Services
Location: We'koqma'q First Nation
Status: Full-time, Permanent
Reports To: Chief Wellness Officer
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the overall operations of the Children and Families Services Department
- Supervise, support, and evaluate departmental staff, fostering a collaborative and accountable team environment
- Develop, implement, and evaluate programs and services for children, youth, and families
- Ensure programming is culturally relevant, trauma-informed, and responsive to community needs
- Oversee case management activities and support complex client situations
- Manage departmental budgets, monitor expenditures, and ensure alignment with funding agreements
- Prepare reports, proposals, and updates for funders and leadership
- Build and maintain relationships with families, Elders, community partners, and external agencies
- Represent the department in meetings, committees, and community initiatives
- Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and child protection standards
- Identify service gaps and support continuous improvement and innovation in programs
Qualifications
- Post-secondary degree in Social Work, Health, Social Sciences, or related field (preferred)
- Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
- Minimum 3-5 years of management or supervisory experience in a social services, health, or community-based setting
- Experience working with children, youth, and families
- Experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation
- Experience managing budgets and funding agreements
- Knowledge of First Nations communities and cultural protocols
Assets:
- Membership in a regulated professional body (e.g., Social Work, Nursing)
- Knowledge of child welfare systems and interagency collaboration
Skills and Attributes
- Strong leadership and team-building abilities
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Sound judgment, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently
- High degree of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity
- Compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Culturally grounded and respectful of First Nations values and traditions
Contacts and Collaboration
This role works closely with:
- Internal leadership, including the Chief Wellness Officer and Chief and Council
- Department staff and other program areas within the Health Centre
- External partners such as schools, government agencies, and social service organizations
- Community members, Elders, and families
Working Conditions
- Community-based position with regular interaction with families and partners
- Exposure to sensitive and complex situations involving children and families
- May require occasional travel and attendance at meetings or events
- Flexibility required, including evening and occasional weekend work
- Some after-hours response to urgent matters may be required
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation based on qualifications, experience, and demonstrated competencies.
- Comprehensive employee benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional development and ongoing learning.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Meaningful work that positively impacts the lives of Mi'kmaw children, youth, and families.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application by 5:00 PM Nov 17, 2026.
