Community Band Designate

Afton, NS
On-site
Posted Aug 5, 2026
1 position

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Employment type: Full-time
Experience level: Mid-level · 2+ years
Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree
Posting language: English
Working hours: 40 hours per week

Job summary

Acts as a liaison between the Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation, families, and child welfare agencies to protect the rights and interests of Mi’kmaw children. Responsibilities include advocating for families in legal proceedings, assisting with resource access, and coordinating with community service providers.

Job details

Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation is seeking a compassionate, organized, and community-focused individual to fill the role of Community Band Designate. The Community Band Designate acts on behalf of Chief and Council in matters relating to child welfare, family advocacy, and community support services. The successful candidate will serve as a liaison between community members, families, child welfare agencies, service providers, and legal or governmental systems to ensure that the rights, culture, and best interests of Mi’kmaw children and families are respected and upheld. This position requires strong interpersonal skills, advocacy, confidentiality, conflict resolution abilities, and a working knowledge of child welfare legislation, Jordan’s Principle, and Indigenous family and community supports. Key Responsibilities • Serve as the primary contact between Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation and child welfare agencies, including Mi’kmaw Family and Children’s Services. • Advocate for community members involved in child welfare matters and assist families in understanding their rights and available supports. • Attend case conferences, court proceedings, family meetings, and planning sessions when required. • Support families in navigating child welfare systems, legal processes, and service applications. • Assist community members in accessing resources such as Jordan’s Principle, mental health supports, housing services, cultural programming, and financial assistance programs. • Work collaboratively with Chief and Council, legal counsel, schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to promote the well-being of children and families. • Ensure that service providers recognize and consider cultural, familial, and community connections in planning and decision-making. • Help mediate concerns or disputes between families and service providers in a respectful and professional manner. • Maintain accurate case notes, records, and documentation while adhering to confidentiality and privacy requirements. • Participate in community meetings, committees, and outreach initiatives related to family wellness and child welfare. • Provide crisis response and support referrals when necessary. • Promote prevention-focused and family-centered approaches whenever possible. Qualifications & Skills • Post-secondary education in Social Work, Human Services, Indigenous Studies, Justice, or a related field is considered an asset. • Equivalent lived experience and community-based experience may be considered. • Knowledge of child welfare legislation, Indigenous child and family service systems, and community resources. • Strong advocacy, communication, mediation, and organizational skills. • Ability to work independently while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality. • Experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding Mi’kmaw culture, traditions, and values. • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required. Preferred Qualities • Compassionate and approachable demeanor. • Strong understanding of trauma-informed and culturally safe practices. • Ability to remain calm and professional during difficult or emotionally charged situations. • Strong problem-solving and relationship-building skills. • Commitment to supporting children, youth, and families within the community. Reporting Structure • The Community Band Designate reports directly to Chief and Council and/or the Director of Healing within Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation. • Employment Conditions • Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check are required. • Flexible hours, including occasional evenings or travel, may be necessary depending on family or community needs. Preference: Paqtnkek Mi'kmaw Nation is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right to hire a qualified candidate of Indigenous descent if all other qualifications remain equal.

What you’ll do

Requirements

Requires a background in Social Work, Human Services, or Indigenous Studies, though equivalent lived experience is considered. Candidates must possess a valid driver's license and a deep understanding of Mi’kmaw culture and child welfare legislation.