Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting directly to the Wellness Manager, the Youth Wellness Worker supports youth through a collaborative therapeutic model that promotes healthy lifestyles and overall well-being. The Youth Wellness Worker builds strong therapeutic relationships by modeling and engaging youth in positive activities that foster self-awareness, healthy coping strategies, effective communication, life skills, appropriate boundary setting, responsibility, and accountability in culturally relevant ways.
The Youth Wellness Worker works closely with youth, families, schools, and community partners to provide advocacy, guidance, and connection to appropriate resources and supports. This role involves collaboration with internal programs and external service providers to address challenges related to intergenerational trauma, abuse, and substance misuse. This position also includes outreach, crisis response, and participation in community events and programming, which may require evening and weekend work.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Addictions Counselling, or a related field.
• Previous outreach and/or counselling experience is preferred.
• Experience working with children and youth is considered an asset.
• Experience working with First Nations communities and/or families is considered an asset.
• Trauma-Informed Care training is considered an asset.
• First Aid Certification is considered an asset.
• Food Safe Certification is considered an asset.
• Class 4 Driver’s License is preferred. Candidates with a valid Class 5 Driver’s License will be considered with a commitment to obtain a Class 4 within the first six months of employment.
• An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.

REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check with [Vulnerable Sector Search] results acceptable to WFN
• Valid Class 4 or 5 Driver’s License and acceptable Driver’s Abstract with reliable transportation.
• Ability to travel and transport clients locally
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of Westbank First Nation.
• Weekend and evening work will be required for events, crisis, and outreach support.

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Establish and maintain safe, supportive, and trusting therapeutic relationships with youth and their families.
• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized treatment and family goal plans, providing one-on-one therapeutic support to youth and facilitating referrals for families as needed.
• Support the development and delivery of trauma-informed, culturally appropriate, and evidence-based prevention and early intervention programs.
• Collaborate with Westbank First Nation (WFN) departments and community partners to provide recreational, cultural, and wellness activities that support youth development and encourage participation in school, alternative programs, and outreach services.
• Maintain accurate and professional documentation including case files, assessments, service records, and court reports as required, while ensuring compliance with program policies, procedures, and reporting requirements.
• Maintain knowledge of internal and external community resources and provide advocacy, liaison, and psychoeducation to professionals, agencies, and the WFN community; participate in internal and external committees as required.
• Deliver services within an integrated model of care that incorporates Indigenous practice frameworks and culturally grounded approaches.
• Assist in the development and delivery of WFN special events, community activities, and wellness programming.
• Provide witness testimony in court proceedings when required.
• Perform administrative and other related duties in accordance with Westbank First Nation policies, standards, and procedures, while maintaining strict confidentiality of all client and organizational information.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Wellness Manager or designate.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Strong written, verbal, and active listening communication skills.
• Demonstrated therapeutic intervention and support skills when working with youth.
• Understanding of, and sensitivity to, Syilx history, culture, values, and beliefs.
• Ability to plan, develop, implement, and evaluate goal plans, programs, and services.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and adapt to changing environments.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Flexibility to work evenings and/or weekends as required.
• Enthusiasm for working directly with youth and engaging them through active and creative approaches.

The median salary for this position is $71,405

This is a term position set to end on March 31, 2027

Westbank First Nation offers a competitive and thoughtfully designed total rewards package that reflects our commitment to employee wellbeing and long-term success. In addition to a competitive base salary, employees are eligible to participate in the Municipal Pension Plan, a defined benefit pension plan with a 9.31% employer contribution following the eligibility period along with comprehensive extended health and dental coverage.

Our unique and generous flexible time-off provisions are designed to promote work–life–family balance and overall wellness. At WFN, we also prioritize continuous growth and leadership development by investing in meaningful education and professional development opportunities that support both individual advancement and organizational excellence.

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at https://www.wfn.ca.

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday, March 29, 2026

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.