Social Worker

Reporting to the Director of Health and Wellness, the Social Worker provides direct case management and system navigation support to individuals and families at ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation who are facing complex challenges such as substance use, mental health struggles, housing issues, family conflict, trauma, and other social determinants of health challenges.

Working closely with Health & Wellness Managers, contracted providers, Elders, and other team members, the Social Worker helps clients access services, navigate systems, and build plans for healing and resilience. This role integrates culturally safe, trauma-informed social work practices with Indigenous knowledge and traditions.

ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation (ʔAFN) is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation. ʔAFN exists for the Community. Externally, we are here to serve the Community, and internally, we are our own Community, comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values.  As a team, through our own roles and departments, the ʔAFN Organization works together to achieve our strategic plan “Our Thinking” and continue to progress and move our community forward.

Note: This position is full-time with a set weekly schedule (35 hrs/week, Monday - Friday) working onsite at AFN’s offices.

Major Position Responsibilities:

Client Support & Case Management

• Provide intake, assessments, and case management for members and families with complex needs.


• Develop individualized service and care plans with clear goals, in collaboration with clients and families.


• Offer short-term counselling, supportive listening, and therapeutic interventions within scope.


• Provide crisis intervention and safety planning (e.g., suicide, family violence, grief and loss).


• Maintain accurate, confidential records in compliance with professional and organizational standards.

System Navigation & Advocacy

• Assist members in navigating health, justice, child and family service, and other government systems.


• Build strong working relationships with service providers to streamline referrals.


• Support members returning from detox, treatment, or hospitalization with aftercare and follow-up.


• Advocate for culturally safe and equitable access to services.

Community Engagement & Cultural Integration

• Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and cultural advisors to ensure services reflect Ktunaxa values and traditional teachings.


• Facilitate group supports.


• Participate in community gatherings and events as appropriate to strengthen trust and relationships.


• Support community wellness initiatives in partnership with other team members

Administrative & Professional Responsibilities

• Prepare reports, case notes, and documentation for internal use and external funders as required.


• Participate in staff meetings and professional development.


• Adhere to social work codes of ethics, trauma-informed practice, and organizational policy.

Qualifications:

• Degree in social work with relevant license.  


• Minimum 2–4 years’ experience in social work, counseling, or community support services.


• Experience working with First Nations communities and a strong understanding of the impacts of colonization, intergenerational trauma, and systemic barriers.


• Knowledge of Indigenous cultural practices, traditions, and community values (or willingness to learn).


• Demonstrated ability to build trust, maintain confidentiality, and engage effectively with individuals and families.


• Experience in crisis intervention and case management preferred.


• Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.


• Empathy, patience, and ability to work with individuals in vulnerable situations.


• Ability to balance cultural approaches with professional social work practices.


• Organized with strong time management and documentation skills.


• Comfortable working independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.


• Commitment to ongoing learning in Indigenous cultural safety and trauma-informed practice.


• Valid Driver's License 

NOTE: A criminal check will be conducted on the successful applicant

What we offer:

• Starting salary between $70,000 to $80,000, depending on education and experience


• Discretionary office closure between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, as determined by the Council each year


• Paid annual vacation and sick days


• Employer-paid Group Benefits which includes Life Insurance, Health and Dental benefits, health spending account, Employee Assistance Program, Disability coverage, available after 3 months of service


• Matched pension plan with employer matching up to 5.5% of the employee’s salary, available after 4 months of service


• Live and work in the most beautiful place in British Columbia

ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals. In accordance with our commitment to reconciliation and employment equity, preference may be given to qualified candidates who self-identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. We encourage Indigenous applicants to self-identify in their application.