Position Summary

Seabird Island is committed to supporting the economic and social wellbeing of our community members. We are dedicated to creating a culturally safe and inclusive environment that respects and values Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and ways of being. We are seeking an Income Assistance Coordinator to join our team, working collaboratively to enhance the delivery of social assistance programs and empower clients to build sustainable, self-determined futures.

Under the direction of the Division Manager, Employment, Training and Social Development the Income Assistance Coordinator provides culturally informed financial and program assistance to community members in need. This role involves intake assessments, financial literacy education, case management, program compliance, and interdepartmental collaboration. The Income Assistance Coordinator will also engage in community relations activities to support clients and the community.

This is a full-time term contract ending on March 31st, 2026, with the possibility of extension.

What You'll Do

Client Support

• Receive, assess, and process social assistance applications per ISC guidelines.
  
• Assist clients in identifying needs, resources, and available programs including Special Needs and COPH.
  
• Support clients with disability forms, budgeting workshops, and financial planning.
  
• Refer clients to other community support services when needed.
  
• Encourage client independence while maintaining professional boundaries.
  
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of ISC policies and procedures.
  
• Collaborate with the employment team to support client transition to the workforce.
  
• Advocate for the rights and entitlements of community members.

Client Records Administration

• Maintain accurate client files and service records.
  
• Ensure proper documentation of decisions and forms.
  
• Keep filing systems current and accessible.
  
• Monitor and report on community trends and service gaps.

Program Administration

• Submit narrative and statistical reports to the manager monthly, quarterly, and annually.
  
• Complete work plans, monthly budgets, decision forms, and reports for ISC and internal use.
  
• Manage repayment agreements and utility/rent tracking systems.

Other Duties

• Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.

Working / Special Conditions

• Initial and ongoing employment is subject to submission of a clear Criminal Record Review Program Check to ensure the safety and trust of the communities we serve. This check will be conducted every five years.
• Initial and ongoing commitment to the values and guidelines of Sq'wqel (Seabird Island Band), including our policies, procedures, standards of practice, and laws, is essential. This commitment supports our collective work, the community, and the responsibilities of this role.
• Must possess a valid class 5 driver's license and have access to safe and reliable transportation, insured for community-based use, to effectively engage with and support families in our community and the communities we serve.
  
• Flexibility in working hours may be required, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the needs and schedules of clients and community needs. Employees will be given as much notice as possible to any changes in schedule.

What You Bring

• A Diploma in Social Services or a related field. We also recognize and value cultural knowledge and experience gained through other forms of education and training, including teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
• At least 2 years of relevant experience working within Indigenous communities, focusing on income assistance, social services, or community wellness.
  
• Experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
  
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Preferred:

• Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
  
• Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.
  
• Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Islands culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.
  
• Ability to respond quickly and professionally to community or colleague needs and inquiries.
  
• Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.

Cultural Competency:

• Understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
• Experience working within Indigenous communities and applying culturally safe practices.
  
• Understanding of intergenerational trauma and its impacts on Indigenous peoples and communities.

How to Apply

• Have a question about this role before you apply? [email protected].
• Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter sharing how your experience aligns with this role.

Pre-Employment Screening

Seabird Island is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions that Indigenous people bring to our team. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous people. Pursuant to S. 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of First Nations, Mtis, or Inuit heritage. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in Canada; however, we are not able to sponsor visas.

Employment is conditional upon completing pre-employment screening to ensure a safe and secure work environment in which students, staff, members, families, community, as well as resources, and assets are protected. All background checks, reference checks and criminal record checks are performed in accordance with Seabird Island Human Resources Policy Manual, protecting the integrity and confidentiality of information gathered during the evaluation.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.