Okanagan Indian Band Cultural Immersion School Language Learner

KʷU KʷLIW̓T L̓ NQMAPLQS | WE LIVE AT HEAD OF THE LAKE

Located within the unceded territory of the syilx people, the Okanagan Indian Band is comprised of six reserves located in the North Okanagan.

Come join the OKIB Team and enjoy all that the beautiful Okanagan Valley has to offer, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches

The OKIB offers a welcoming team environment and a rewarding job experience. You can expect a supportive work environment and a total compensation package which includes:

• 3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay

• Extended Health and Dental Benefits

• Employer Matched Pension Plan

• 15 Statutory Holidays

• Paid Winter Holiday Break

• Cultural Leave

• Discounted Silver Star lift passes

• Retention Bonuses after years of service

• 15 Paid Sick Days

• Paid Personal Leave

• Employee Assistance Program

• Professional Development Opportunities

Hours of work**: Up to 37.5 hours per week**

Deadline for applications: August 1, 2025

JOB SUMMARY
The nsyilxcən Language Learner is responsible for working with the Language and Culture team to support instruction to Grade 1-7 students and school staff with the nsyilxcən language and cultural ways of the sqilxw people. Language and cultural teaching and activities must strengthen children’s sense of identity, culture, and history. Additionally, the position aims to foster a learning environment among students and teaching staff based on sqilxw values, culture, and traditions. The position also works closely with the school Vice Principal, teaching staff and support staff practicing a team teach philosophy.

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support language instruction to all students enrolled in the OKIB Cultural Immersion School (large group, small group, and 1:1)

• Attend all field trips and events with students, cultural and educational

• Identifies and provides opportunities to integrate language and culture into all aspects of learning

• Works with teachers and Language team to provide culturally appropriate classroom management

• Practices respectful student/adult interactions

• Assists in supervision duties as required and scheduled

• Maintains confidentiality of all matters relating to the students/families enrolled at school

• Participates in the preparation of the school annual calendar identifying dates for cultural activities, events, and cultural field trips

• Attends workshops, seminars, conferences, and other professional development activities as directed to keep informed of current trends in education, practices, and curriculum developments related to First Nation education

• Assists and encourages all school staff in learning Okanagan language skills

ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES

• Attends Staff meetings

• Supports the Language and Culture team with administrative tasks such as accessing resources, duplicating resources, providing support with creating documents, photocopying, laminating, etc.

• Supports the ongoing effort to develop and manage the school’s language and cultural curriculum

• Communicates to the Vice Principal any pertinent information regarding the Language and Culture Program

• Contributes to the development of an annual language learning plan and curriculum in collaboration with other staff and language instructor assistant

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR
You have education, experience, or an equivalent combination may be considered. You are community-minded, detail-oriented, have a willingness to contribute to a team and an excellent communicator.

Education

• Enrolled in nsyilxcən language learning, or willing to enroll

• Current First Aid/CPR, or willing to obtain

• Valid class 5 driver's license and a reliable vehicle

Experience

• Experience with nsyilxcən language at a beginner level is preferred, but may not be required for a suitable candidate

• Experience working with elementary aged school students is preferred, but not required

• Knowledge and experience with OKIB or Okanagan Nation programs and services

CLASSIFICATION/PAY SCALE
$19.00 - $23.00 per hour dependant on education and experience

Please send resume, cover letter and references in any one of two ways:

Email: recruiting@okanagan.org
Mail or drop off: 12420 Westside Road, Vernon, BC V1H 2A4
If you have accessibility needs, please contact Hollie Lachuk @ 250-542-4328 ext. 1011

The successful applicant will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check that includes the vulnerable sector and three references

Education : College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma from a program of 3 months to less than 1 year

Experience : 1 year to less than 2 years