Indigenous Relations Advisor

This posting is for 1 temporary full-time position for 3 months(with the possibility of extension)

Strathcona County Council is committed to building relationships with the Indigenous community within and outside of Strathcona County to advance Reconciliation. This position will facilitate building understanding within the organization about Indigenous Peoples and their history in Strathcona County; encourage inclusivity of the many Indigenous Peoples who reside on the land now known as Strathcona County; while recognizing the structure of the Confederacy of Treaty Six the unique culture and history of the Métis people the governance of the Métis Nation of Alberta and the unique Métis Settlements as distinct groups.

Working with different orders of government specifically those of First Nations and Métis Nations and amongst departments this position will support the Manager of Intergovernmental Affairs the Chief Commissioner Mayor and Council with the development and implementation of a framework to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions Calls to Action that are directed to municipal governments and support an increase in Indigenous cultural competency throughout the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Participate in Indigenous and other outreach activities representing the Countys perspective while supporting the development of a variety of partner driven initiatives
• Act as the key liaison with the Indigenous Advisory Committee. This includes supporting this administrative committee through meetings projects and activities to achieve the committees goals and purpose.
• Lead/participate in the delivery of internal and external initiatives/projects as assigned
• Identify and support opportunities for staff to learn and understand the history of Indigenous peoples and help identify opportunities for meaningful acts of reconciliation
• Identify synergies and alignmentwith Indigenous Peoplesperspectives on corporate initiatives related to diversity inclusionracism systemicbarriersbiasesand accessibility for all
• Facilitateand inviteconversations to build relationships and partnerships with Indigenous community members Leaders and/or Elders and associated organizations
• Establish and lead working teams and related activities to advance the Countys strategic goals and priorities
• Broker the development and implementation of responses/resolutions to issues/opportunities identified through discussions with internal and external working groups
• Provide content expertise and support to Council and Administration in the development and delivery of strategies and initiatives which improve the liveability of Indigenous Peoples inStrathcona County
• Provide advice and guidance to County departments in the development of work plans and associated activitiesto encourage incorporating Indigenous perspectives
• Provide input in the development of strategy/policy development for Indigenousinitiatives
• Liaise with other municipalities and jurisdictions and foster information-sharing and collaboration where applicable

Qualificationsand Skills:

• Post-Secondary Diploma or Degree in Arts Humanities Community Development Native/Indigenous Studies or an equivalent recognized Degree
• Minimum seven years progressively responsible experience in Indigenous relations and engagement working with or in Indigenous communities.
• Masters degree is considered an asset
• Ability to speak an Indigenous language is an asset
• Ability to work independently in both thought and action in research analytical techniques consulting and policy interpretation and development issue identificationand problem solving are required
• Ability to research analyzeand put into context complex regional provincialand national issues and influence senior administration to understand and identify strategic opportunities
• Extensive knowledge of Indigenous history and culture significant knowledge of cultural protocols with Indigenous communities (i.e. First Nations Métis and Inuit settlements and reserves)
• Extensive knowledge of duty to consult principles and understandingtheir application
• Knowledge of current legal climate and landmark cases affecting rights-based arguments
• Significant skills and understanding in communication tools which includes the use of social media
• Significant level of political acumen and ability to navigate varying levels of bureaucracy
• Excellent project and process management skills; ability to effectively gather synthesize integrate and interpret multi-faceted information from a wide range of sources/perspectives
• Excellent relationship building communication report writing facilitation presentation and interpersonal skills required proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite

Conditions of Employment:

• Valid Alberta Class 5 drivers licence and ability to obtain business auto insurance for personal vehicle use on County business

Who we are:

Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta. Our vision is to become Canadas most livable community where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity respect safety fairness and cooperation.

Why Join Strathcona County:

• Competitive salary and benefits package which includes:
  • Health and wellness spending account
  • Employee and family assistance program
• Commitment to employee development through internal and external training and development opportunities
• Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive respectful and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.