The Tlaamin Nation is a forward thinking, self-governing, modern treaty nation located on the beautiful upper Sunshine Coast (qathet Region).

Position Summary

Job Type: Full-time, permanent

Hours of Work: 8:30am 4:30pm Monday to Friday

Reporting to: Cultural Campus Manager

Department: Community Services

The Community Food Program Coordinator will oversee, organize, and implement programming for traditional food security initiatives and coordinate operations of the Traditional Food Processing (TFP) Facility. This work is related to Goal 19 of our Comprehensive Nation Plan. This role emphasizes culturally appropriate food systems, local food sovereignty, and partnerships that reflect the values and traditions of Tlaamin Nation.

Key Responsibilities

Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with Tlaamin policies, standards, practices and procedures as directed by the Cultural Campus Manager. Maintains confidentiality as required pertaining to citizens, clients, employees and general matters of the Nation.

Operations of the Traditional Foods Processing Facility

• Facilitate day to day operations such as but not limited to use/access, booking inspections, maintenance, cleaning, etc.
• Ensure safety measures are in place and implemented for all, including specialized, equipment.
• Oversee sourcing, processing, and distribution of traditional foods (e.g., fruit, produce, seafood, game).
• Quality Assurance and Food Safety:
  • Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and health standards, including HACCP and local/provincial food processing guidelines.
  • Implement and monitor sanitation and safety procedures for food handling and processing.
  • Implement measures to maintain detailed records of product sourcing, processing, packaging, and storage.
  • Coordinate regular facility inspections and staff training on hygiene and food safety.

Community Engagement

• Ensure communications about traditional food are grounded in taow (teachings) and provide regular collaboration for intergenerational knowledge-sharing with Elders, youth, Knowledge Keepers, etc.
• Work with the Cultural Committee to ensure cultural protocol is upheld.
• Support the development of culturally appropriate food products for community use.
• Facilitate workshops and community tours to promote traditional food knowledge.

Administrative Management

• Coordination and inventory of incoming/outgoing movement of traditional foods, including food storage and food waste management.
• Forecasting and supervision of programming and seasonal processing.
• Upholding Standard Operating Procedures, cultural protocols, and best practices.
• Work together with the Cultural Campus Manager and the Grant Coordinator to identify, prepare, and submit grant applications. Manage reporting obligations for successful grant applications.
• Implement measures to track program outcomes and participant feedback.
• Organize workshops and training sessions on traditional food preparation, food preservation, and gardening.
• Coordinate temporary and seasonal staff including, volunteers, workshop facilitators, and harvesters, processors, knowledge-keepers and distributors, including after hours coverage.

Networking and Partnerships

• Collaborate interdepartmentally across Tlaamin Nation.
• Lead the development of the Tlaamin Nation Food Plan.
• Develop and implement programming that advances the Nations food security initiatives.
• Develop strategic partnerships to benefit food supply and traditional knowledge.

Qualifications

Training, Education, Experience

• Minimum 3 years experience in food processing, program operations, or similar roles, preferably in Indigenous or rural settings.
• Degree, Diploma or Certificate program in related areas, such as but not limited to: Community Development; Indigenous Studies; Public Health; Food & Nutrition; Environmental Studies; Agriculture; or another related field.
• Candidates with an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Experience with traditional food harvesting and preservation methods preferred.
• Mechanical experience operating, maintaining food processing equipment.
• Experience working in commercial kitchens and with commercial equipment (for butchering, pressure canning, etc.)
• Budgeting, reporting, and grant-writing experience is an asset.
• WHMIS certification
• Certification in food safety (e.g., FoodSafe Level 2, HACCP) or willingness to obtain.
• Acceptable Criminal Record Check
• Must have Class 5 B.C. Drivers License and acceptable Drivers Abstract

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Strong understanding of Indigenous food sovereignty: Knowledge of the principles of Indigenous food sovereignty, Indigenous food systems, and their importance for community well-being.
• Community engagement and outreach skills: Ability to effectively communicate with and engage community members, building trust and rapport.
• Project and program development: Strong organizational and project management skills to effectively plan, implement, and manage food security programs.
• Advocacy and policy skills: Ability to advocate for food security policies and funding.
• Collaboration and communication: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in dynamic teams and with diverse people at all levels.
• Knowledge of Tlaamin Nation, culture, and teachings
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work flexible hours, including during harvest or peak processing seasons.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a variety of environments office setting, outdoors in all-weather types.
• The majority of work will occur at the Traditional Foods Processing Facility.
• Travel may be necessary at times
  

How to Apply

Please apply by uploading your resume and cover letter to: https://tlaaminfirst.bamboohr.com/careers/237

Or

Drop-off/mail Attention: Human Resources Department, Tlaamin Nation, 4779 Klahanie Rd, Tlaamin, BC, V8A 0C4

Closing Date: This posting will remain open until filled.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those shortlisted will be contacted.