Language Coordinator at Nakazdli Whuten – Fort St. James, British Columbia

Job Title: Language Coordinator

Location: Fort St. James, BC

Number of Positions: 1

Employment Type: Full-Time, Fixed Term (1 year)

Wage: $35.84 to $38.64 an hour based on experience

About Us

Nak'azdli Whut'en is a proud Dakelh First Nation located near Fort St. James, British Columbia. Our community is deeply rooted in Dakelh culture, language, and values, emphasizing a connection to the land and a commitment to the well-being of our people. We are dedicated to creating inclusive and supportive services that reflect our culture and respect the unique perspectives and needs of our members. At Nak'azdli Whut'en, we strive to provide community-focused health and social services that uphold Indigenous values and address the distinct challenges facing our community.

Job Summary

Nak’azdli Whut’en First Nation is seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Dakelh Language Coordinator to support the preservation, revitalization, and promotion of the Dakelh language, culture, songs, dance, clan knowledge, and Nak’azdli Whut’en history.

Reporting to the Director of Education and working closely with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Clan members, and community stakeholders, the Dakelh Language Coordinator plays a vital role in strengthening cultural continuity and language learning. This position requires strong relationship-building skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to coordinate language and cultural activities, meetings, and events both internally and externally throughout the year.

Key Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with fluent Dakelh speakers to ensure accurate language use, translations, and terminology.
• Support and enhance Dakelh language revitalization initiatives and cultural practices.
• Apply traditional teachings, protocols, and laws as guiding principles in planning and daily work.
• Organize and coordinate language learning sessions, cultural meetings, workshops, and conferences.
• Develop and manage budgets related to language and cultural events, including fundraising, sponsorships, and donations.
• Apply for funding opportunities and manage funded projects, including reporting requirements.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with Elders, community members, language working groups, funders, sponsors, vendors, facilitators, and external partners.
• Maintain strong communication with the Director of Education, Administration, Chief and Council, community members, and surrounding municipalities as required.
• Review and manage materials, reports, contracts, schedules, and deliverables to ensure timelines, budgets, and obligations are met.
• Support the integration of Dakelh language and cultural teachings into schools, programs, and community settings.
• Preserve confidentiality in all matters related to Nak’azdli Whuten First Nation.
• Perform other related duties as assigned and mutually agreed upon.

Education, Training & Experience

• Experience in community engagement and facilitation is an asset.
• Minimum of 2 years of related experience in community development, engagement, facilitation, or a similar field is an asset.
• Strong understanding of Nak’azdli Whuten First Nation history, values, family structures, and way of life.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities is required.

Required Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of the Dakelh language is an asset.
• Understanding of Nak’azdli Whuten history and culture.
• Strong organizational, coordination, and event-planning skills.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work respectfully with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community members.
• Proven project and time management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• High attention to detail and quality of work.
• Advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Office, Zoom, and MS Teams.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

Working Conditions

• Meeting people, making phone calls, and sending emails.
• Sitting for long periods of time and attend meetings.
• Manual dexterity is required to use desktop computers and peripherals.

Hours of Work

Hours of work are normally from Monday to Friday for 7 hours per day from 8:00 am pm to 4:00 pm shifts, with 1-hour unpaid lunch break, for up to 35 hours per week, and it is expected that all work will be completed within your regular working hours, however, you may be required from time to time to work outside of your normal hours of work.

Indigenous Commitment Statement

"Nak'azdli Whut'en is committed to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive work environment that reflects the values, traditions, and aspirations of Indigenous peoples. We actively encourage and prioritize applicants from First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities to apply. We recognize the importance of cultural knowledge and experience, and we honor and respect Indigenous ways of knowing and being."

Application Instructions

Nak’azdli Whut’en offers the opportunity to lead with purpose and create meaningful change for our community. As Language Coordinator you will have the chance to shape the future, empower a talented team, and build a legacy that reflects our values and aspirations. If this aligns with your career goals, we encourage you to apply directly through our job posting. You can also send us an email with your resume, cover letter and three references at jobs@nakazdliwhuten.ca