WHO WE ARE
Located on the traditional territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən People, Surrounded by Cedar Child & Family Services’ (SCCFS) vision is to support the empowerment of the urban Indigenous community to continue the reclamation of traditional systems of caring for and protecting children so no child or youth will be placed into care. As an urban delegated Indigenous Child & Family Service Agency, SCCFS is committed to providing child and family services strongly rooted in Indigenous cultural values and world views while ensuring urban Indigenous children and youth grow up connected to family, community, and culture.
SCCFS receives its delegation through the Provincial Director of Child Welfare, who gives the agency the authority to undertake administration of parts of the Child, Family and Community Service Act (CFCSA). Under its current delegation agreement, Surrounded by Cedar administers C3 (Voluntary Services) and C4 services (Guardianship).
SCCFS fosters a culturally safe working environment with a keen focus on Indigenous recruitment and retention. We work from the understanding that children are the most sacred gift from Creator. While working at the agency, employees will have the opportunity to be involved in cultural knowledge sharing opportunities, activities, and ceremonies, while being actively engaged in urban Indigenous community events.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Join a team that values your contributions and allows you to grow your career while utilizing your unique skills, creativity, and passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of urban Indigenous youth, and families. In the role as a Sxwamales Worker, you will have the opportunity to:
- Build meaningful relationships with urban Indigenous children, youth, young adults, caregivers, families, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community partners;
- Assist in the design and delivery of culturally grounded programs, events, and land-based experiences that strengthen identity, wellness, and community connection;
- Promote and increase participation in cultural programming by engaging children, youth, young adults, families, caregivers, and agency staff;
- Support and mentor Indigenous young people through the Youth Advisory Council, creating opportunities for leadership, advocacy, and meaningful participation in agency initiatives; and
- Create safe, welcoming, and culturally affirming spaces where urban Indigenous children, youth, young adults, families, and community members can gather, learn, connect, and celebrate culture.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
- Diploma in Health and Human Services, Sociology, Indigenous Studies, Child & Youth Care, Social Work, or a related field.
- Ability to draw upon lived experience as a First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit person.
- Minimum of two (2) years of experience supporting children, youth, young adults and families experiencing complex barriers, including involvement with the child welfare system, homelessness, poverty, substance use, mental health and trauma.
- Minimum of two (2) years of training and/or experience in Indigenous culturally grounded healing, wellness and support approaches.
- An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered.
- Current B.C. Class 5 Driver’s license, satisfactory driver’s abstract, adequate vehicle insurance including business coverage, and access to a safe reliable vehicle.
- Satisfactory vulnerable sector check as required through the Criminal Records Review Act.
- Available and willing to work some evenings and weekends and to travel from time to time.
WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER
- Competitive wages, comprehensive benefits plan, and enrollment in the Public Service Pension Plan.
- A healthy working environment rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
- Flexible work schedules and leave opportunities that promote work/life/family balance.
- Physical wellness funds to support your overall well-being.
- Professional development and learning opportunities to enhance your skills.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a variety of settings, including in office and a variety of community settings. Working hours are generally Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; however, evening and weekend work will be required. Program delivery involves overnight travel, including travel to isolated and/or remote areas within North America, as well as being on the land in a variety of elements, including overnight stays.
Work involves supporting youth and young adults with varying complex needs which may result in exposure to substance use and/or volatile behaviour. Some computer work may require longer hours of sitting and eyestrain. May be required to lift or move equipment and boxes up to 50 pounds.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply online, or submit your resume and cover letter by email to:
Alisha Garvin, HR Specialist at agarvin@sccfs.com.
Along with your resume, please submit a cover letter outlining your interest in this opportunity and how you meet the job requirements. We thank you for your interest in this position. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. An eligibility list may be established.
Lived experience as a First Nations, Métis and/or Inuit person is a requirement of this position. Qualified applicants must identify as First Nations, Métis and/or Inuit in the application process.
Should you have any questions or require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact Alisha Garvin at agarvin@sccfs and we will collaborate with you to meet your needs.


