Indigenous Interpreter Resource Worker (Designated Indigenous)

Position Overview

Interpreter/Resource Workers provide assistance, guidance and support to patients and their families to navigate through the health care systems at each of the sites within Health Sciences Centre.

All patients have the right to have medical information interpreted into their primary language so they can make informed decisions about their care. The ability to communicate without language barriers improves the quality of care that patients receive and decreases the risk of medical errors. Interpreters have special training in medical terminology and function as members of the health care team. They facilitate communication between health providers and patients by providing interpretation in Cree (Nehinowewin), Ojibwe (Anishinaabemowin) and Oji-Cree (Anishininimowin).

THIS IS A DESIGNATED INDIGENOUS COMPETITION THAT IS OPEN TO INDIGENOUS APPLICANTS. Proof of ancestry will be requested, and those selected for an interview will be asked related questions. We invite applicants to self-identify in their cover letter and/or resume.

Experience

• Experience working with provincial Indigenous organizations and agencies such as First Nations, Tribal Councils, Manitoba Inuit Association, Manitoba Métis Federation, Urban Indigenous Associations, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) and Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO).


• Lived experience and understanding of Indigenous healthcare priorities, services, and challenges alongside Indigenous culture, protocols, traditions, and values, both within communities and organizations in Manitoba.


• Lived experience and understanding of Indigenous healthcare priorities and practices, including First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures, protocols, traditions, values, and rights to self-determination.

Education (Degree/Diploma/Certificate)

• Complete high school education, Manitoba Standard, required.


• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the above.

Certification/Licensure/Registration

• Class 5 driver's license required.


• Access to a vehicle required.

Qualifications and Skills

• Proficient in written and verbal communication and collaboration, adept at building relationships with Indigenous partners. Skilled in developing and presenting findings to varied audiences.


• Related experience in a healthcare setting.


• Language competency in a specified Indigenous language: one of Cree/Nehinowewin, Ojibwe/Anishinaabemowin or Oji-Cree/Anishininimowin.


• General knowledge of medical terminology/or related experience and ability to interpret same fluently.


• Knowledge or familiarity with Indigenous health issues, population health, and health status of citizens in Manitoba.


• Commitment to upholding the shared responsibility of creating lasting and meaningful reconciliation in Canada as per Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action (2015) and Manitoba’s Path to Reconciliation Act (2016).


• Understanding and commitment to the articles set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as a framework for truth and reconciliation.


• Knowledge of Indigenous cultural safety and anti-racism actions, inquests and reports, e.g., Jordan’s Principle, Joyce’s Principle and Brian Sinclair Inquest.


• Ability to interact well with other healthcare. professionals, all levels of staff, patients and families.


• Successful completion of the  Shared Health Language Access Program (can be completed within probationary period).


• Ability to read, write, speak and understand English.


• Strong interpersonal skills.


• Thorough knowledge of Windows based programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and the Internet.


• Ability to prioritize workload, independently.


• Demonstrated ability to work within a team environment, including internal/external committee members, staff and colleagues.


• Demonstrated problem-solving skills.


• Ability to maintain a high-level of confidentiality.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.


• Must be able to walk extended distances.


• May be required to sit / work at a computer for extended periods of time.