26-102 - Manager, Michif Documentation & Resource Development

About the Opportunity

The Michif Documentation and Resource Development Manager leads the strategy and implementation of the Ministry’s Michif documentation and resource development activities. Applying specialized knowledge of Michif languages and documentation practices, the role coordinates documentation projects, develops learning resources, and works collaboratively with Michif speakers, contractors and internal teams to ensure high-quality and culturally appropriate language use.  

The role provides coordination and guidance to a small team and contributes to the effective delivery of the Ministry’s language revitalization initiatives

Duties and Responsibilities  

• Manages the Ministry’s Michif documentation portfolio following best practices in language documentation, including but not limited to: developing elicitation plans and content, coordinating recording sessions with speakers, editing and finalizing audio/video assets.  


• Builds and maintains caring and reciprocal relationships with Michif speakers, ensuring their comfort and health are at the forefront of all work being conducted on behalf of the Ministry.  


• Manages a documentation and resource development budget, including: budget development and forecasting, tracking expenditures, ensuring timely payments, sourcing vendors and abiding by MNBC’s purchasing and procurement policies.   


• Oversees the development of Michif learning resources for MNBC staff and citizens utilizing Michif recordings and translations from Michif speakers.   


• Manages other specialized Michif projects aligned with the Ministry’s Michif Language Revitalization plan goals.   


• Provides supervision to the documentation team, including hiring, training, mentoring, performance evaluation, and professional development goal setting.   


• Contributes to the Ministry’s Language portfolio’s program planning and development.   


• Procures and manages vendor contracts to ensure the successful completion of rendered services, building effective working relationships with approved vendors.   


• Regularly travels to or oversees the documentation team’s travel to Michif speakers both within and outside of BC.  


• Works collaboratively with the rest of the Ministry, as well as other MNBC Ministry’s and Departments to provide guidance and support to teams across MNBC to promote consistent and accurate Michif use and translations.    


• Stays up to date on the latest technology and best practices across all aspects of language documentation, including equipment, production software and methodologies.  


• Engages in professional learning opportunities and events to further knowledge of Michif and Indigenous Language Revitalization.   


• Updates their leader on all pertinent issues, information for effective decision making.  


• Provides input for the preparation of Ministry planning and reporting.  


• Contributes to the Ministry of Culture, Heritage and Language by supporting events and team initiatives as needed.  


• Participates in committees and project teams as required.  


• Undertakes related duties as assigned, consistent with the job grade of the position.   


• Other duties may be assigned as needed to ensure the efficient operation of MNBC.  


• Regular/ occasional attendance at meetings/ events that may require work and travel outside of normal business hours. 

Supervision Given

• 2-3 coordinator / administration roles

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Indigenous Language Revitalization, Linguistics, Indigenous Studies, or related field from a recognized, post-secondary institution.  


• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience with language documentation and resource development.  


• Minimum of two (2) years of experience managing and directly supervising staff and building high-functioning, resilient and adaptable teams. 


• Combination of relevant education, training and experience will be considered.  


• Knowledge of the three Michif languages and Métis culture. 


• Experience working directly with Indigenous Elders and speakers to conduct language documentation.  


• Strong project management experience and demonstrated ability to simultaneously manage multiple projects of varying complexity.  


• Demonstrated financial management experience, including developing and managing program and project budgets.  


• Demonstrated experience managing contractors and vendors of various services and complexities.  


• Demonstrated experience developing educational resources.  


• Proven ability as a critical thinker who can assess situations rationally, problem solve, and resolve conflicts with a win-win approach. 


• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing. 


• Demonstrated ability to lead, problem solve, and utilize team-building skills. 


• Proven ability to utilize strong interpersonal skills to deal with others effectively. 


• Proven ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work with minimal supervision. 


• Proven ability to utilize, adapt and embrace new technologies, such as MS Word, Excel and other database/software required by the role, including recording and production technologies and software, as well as website editing. 


• Ability to travel regularly within and outside of BC for Michif documentation and work outside of regular office hours.  


• Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s license and access to a reliable personal vehicle for work purposes.  


• The position may require the completion of a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check.