Katzie First Nation is searching for a passionate Manager to oversee our Human and Social Service (HSS) Departments. As one of the largest departments in the Nation, this role will oversee the teams responsible for coordinating services for the betterment of the Katzie First Nation community members. Currently, these teams include Youth, Elders, Language, Social Assistance, and Education.
This position reports directly to the CAO as a senior management team member and facilitates strategic program planning. Developing social services programming and initiatives for KFN is a top priority. The HSS Manager ensures the incorporation of KFN's cultural and spiritual practices in the delivery of social services programs and the full implementation of the Income Assistance Program.
If you are a passionate individual, driven to improve the quality of social services to the Katzie community, this could be the career for you! At KFN, we understand that experiences and qualifications may look different for everyone, and if this job description interests you, we encourage you to apply.
What you will be responsible for:
- Manage the day-to-day operations of Human and Social Services Programs (Youth, Elders, Language, Social Assistance, Education/Training subject to change based on funding proposals and applications)
- Manage the HSS Department staff and contractors, including hiring, onboarding, and training.
- Oversee Education staff in their efforts to promote education, training, and employment opportunities that may lessen the need for Social Assistance.
- Manage the Social Assistance program as prescribed by ISC regulations and policies.
- Determine and monitor eligibility for Social Assistance upon application.
- Facilitate the completion of application forms such as Veterans Allowance, Old Age Security, Guaranteed Income Supplement, etc.
- Compile, track, and maintain Social Assistance statistical information for quarterly and annual reporting to ISC.
- Prepare and distribute monthly Social Assistance payments and Special Needs requests as needed.
- Ensuring all HSS programs follow all legal requirements, including contracts and client files.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date files on all clients, ensuring annual/monthly file reviews are completed.
- Ensure all programs maintain the security of confidential information.
- Assist in developing a Social Services strategy annually to plan, budget, and implement all community activities related to the Human and Social Services Department.
- Work with the CAO and Finance to create HSS budget(s) and maintain the budget, including monitoring and authorizing expenditures within approved budgets.
- Prepare and submit monthly activities reports and other reports and recommendations as requested by the Department Head.
- Write grants and proposals and report accordingly to fill gaps in service.
- Partners with outside agencies to refer Education and IA clients for employment training programs.
- Work with staff, Council, and external stakeholders to seek input and advice on social service programs or case studies for client betterment.
- Work collaboratively with the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, ISC, and outside community agencies for client and community betterment.
- Meet on a regular and as-needed basis with other agencies and volunteer agencies.
What you bring to the position:
- Diploma in Social Services or related field (bachelor's degree preferred) or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
- Minimum five years experience in a senior manager position, leading diverse groups, with the proven ability to grow and develop a team.
- Minimum three years experience managing Indigenous Community Support Services.
- Experience working with First Nations people on reserve.
- Knowledge of First Nations communities and culture and experience working with community
- A strengths-based approach to working with clients.
- Relevant experience in overseeing detailed department operating budgets, timelines, people, and processes.
- Ensures focus is given to attention to details within own and departmental work product.
- Practical experience in exercising independent judgment, goal setting, and implementation.
- Embraces and actively promotes an inclusive and equitable work environment.
- A self-starter with strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, both oral and written.
- Excellent problem-solving skills, ability to forecast, analyze work under pressure and manage conflict effectively.
- Flexibility and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing work priorities, ensuring prioritizing and completing tasks on time.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office/365
- Experience in providing sound advice and recommendations.
- Ability to lead by example, exhibit a strong work ethic, and commitment to excellence.
- Ability to work independently with minimal day-to-day supervision and within a collaborative team framework.
- Demonstrated genuine respect for Katzie First Nations culture and protocols.
- Experience working directly with a diverse group of people.
- Valid BC Driver's License with a clean driver's abstract.
- Satisfactory Criminal Record Check (vulnerable sector)
- Minimal day-to-day supervision with high expectations of work produced.
What we offer:
- Health and dental coverage with a health spending account
- Employee and family assistance program
- Long-term disability benefits
- Paid vacation
- Office closure over winter break
- Pension plan with an employer contribution
- Paid sick day coverage
- Family responsibility days
- Social gatherings and community events
- Staff wellness day
- Cultural learning opportunities