Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is dedicated to an inclusive selection process and work environment. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources representative when you are invited to meet regarding this employment opportunity.

Diversity Statement

Qualified persons of First Nations Ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s.16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

About the AFN

The AFN is an advocacy organization that takes direction and fulfills mandates as directed by First Nations in-Assembly through resolutions. As a national advocacy organization for First Nations, the AFN seeks to advance First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights through the development of policy, public education, and where applicable, the co-development of legislation to build First Nations capacity.

The AFN was created out of a desire among First Nations leadership for a strong and effective collective advocacy organization. From this, values such as respect for human rights, diversity, justice, and the sovereignty of each rights-holding First Nation guide the work of the organization.

Position Overview

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is seeking two collaborative and solutions-oriented Human Resources (HR) Generalists to join our growing HR team. One position is a full-time, indeterminate role, and the other is a 12-month maternity and parental leave coverage. Both roles are eligible for participation in AFNs benefits plan following the standard waiting period.

These roles are responsible for delivering frontline HR services across the employee life cycle, including recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, benefits administration, policy support, and leave/disability coordination.

Working closely with the Director of HR and other team members, the HR Generalist will play a key role in ensuring staff and leadership receive timely, accurate, and culturally competent support. The successful candidate will be adaptable, detail-oriented, and comfortable balancing both strategic and administrative responsibilities in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.

Key Responsibilities

HR Operations and Administration

• Serve as a first point of contact for HR-related questions from staff and managers.
• Maintain HR systems and employee records (e.g., BambooHR), ensuring data accuracy and compliance.
• Prepare payroll summaries and benefit updates.
• Assist with day-to-day administrative HR functions and internal communications.

Recruitment, Onboarding, and Offboarding

• Support full-cycle recruitment, including postings, interviews, reference checks, and offers.
• Coordinate new hire onboarding and orientation processes.
• Prepare employment documentation and facilitate employee transitions.
• Conduct exit interviews and ensure smooth offboarding procedures.

Employee Relations and Policy Support

• Interpret and apply AFNs HR policies and relevant employment legislation.
• Provide guidance on conduct, probation reviews, accommodations, and leave.
• Assist in resolving workplace concerns and escalate when appropriate.
• Leverage internal resources before seeking external legal or consultant support.

Performance Management and Staff Development

• Coordinate performance review cycles and probation tracking.
• Support professional development planning and job evaluation processes.

Benefits, Disability, and Leave Management

• Help employees navigate health benefits, pensions, and insurance options.
• Monitor and track employee leaves and accommodations.
• Liaise with providers (e.g., Sun Life) and assist with return-to-work planning.

Collaboration and Coordination

• Work closely with HR team members to ensure coverage and cross-training.
• Participate in organization-wide initiatives, including events and Chiefs Assemblies.
• Liaise with Payroll, Finance, and IT to ensure seamless employee services.
• Contribute to internal HR meetings and external service provider discussions.

Other Duties as Assigned

• Provide support or administrative coverage as needed, especially during busy periods.
• Take on special projects and assignments based on HR sector priorities.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Public Administration, Business, or a related field.
• CHRP designation or eligibility is preferred.
• Minimum 35 years of progressive HR experience across multiple functional areas.
• Experience working with the Canada Labour Code and federal employment legislation.
• Familiarity with benefits, pensions, recruitment, onboarding, and offboarding processes.
• Knowledge of Indigenous governance, cultural protocols, and First Nations issues is a strong asset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, HRIS platforms (e.g., BambooHR), and cloud-based document systems (e.g., SharePoint, HR Downloads).
• Multilingualism (English, French, Indigenous Language) is an asset.

Competencies

• Cultural Awareness Respects First Nations worldviews and supports culturally safe HR practices.
• Communication Clearly explains policies and complex information to diverse audiences.
• Tact and Diplomacy Handles sensitive issues with professionalism, especially with senior leaders and political offices.
• Resourcefulness and Problem-Solving Anticipates challenges and proposes practical, proactive solutions.
• Attention to Detail Ensures accuracy in records, reports, and documentation.
• Team Collaboration Works well across departments and with colleagues to provide seamless service.
• Technology Skills Uses HR platforms and collaboration tools confidently.
• Confidentiality Maintains high standards of discretion and ethical practice

Working Conditions:

• Hybrid work model (mostly in-office and with remote flexibility).
• Occasional travel may be required (e.g., Chiefs Assemblies, off-site meetings).
• May require availability outside regular business hours during busy periods.

Mental Demands:

• Frequent multitasking and shifting priorities.
• Exposure to emotionally sensitive or confidential matters.
• Requires focus, discretion, and professionalism.

Physical Demands:

• Extended computer use.
• Occasional lifting of files, supplies, or meeting/event materials.

Why Join AFN?

• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful First Nations advocacy and policy development at the national level.
• Collaborative work environment with passionate professionals dedicated to advancing First Nations rights and interests.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package (including pension, and employer-paid health and dental coverage).
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a dynamic organization.

How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position through the AFN website: https://afn.ca/about-us/work-with-afn/.

This position will remain open until filled.