SCO is a growing and dynamic regional First Nation organization that represents 33 Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations and more than 88,000 citizens in what is now southern Manitoba. Established in 1999 by the Chiefs, SCO is mandated as an independent organization to protect, preserve, promote, and enhance First Nation peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.

SCO provides competitive compensation and excellent pension and benefits, as well as a positive work environment.

OVERVIEW:

SCO requires a full-time First Nation Court Worker (FNCW) based in Dauphin, Manitoba. Reporting to the Community Justice Manager, the First Nation Court Worker is responsible for liaising between the criminal court and SCO citizens and their families to ensure that they are provided with fair, equitable, culturally relevant, and responsive treatment while navigating the Criminal Justice System.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Inform court officials and the judiciary about the traditional values, teachings, language, and beliefs of Anishinaabe and Dakota People to assist with court proceedings
• Explain and provide information to the client on the nature of charge(s), court procedures, client rights and responsibilities, sentencing, and restorative justice options
• Assist the client to overcome communication barriers by being available to provide appropriate information to the court and/or speaking on behalf of the client to the court
• Work in partnership with various Chief and Councils, SCO Community Justice Workers, and Community Justice Committees
• Maintain a record of matters processed for tracking and statistical recording purposes
• Attend circuit Court sittings throughout southern Manitoba including the Manitoba Youth Centre
• Participate in all professional development and training relevant to the position
• Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Completion of Grade 12/GED is a requirement. Post-secondary education in Indigenous studies, social work, restorative justice, or legal studies is preferred.
• Experience working in the criminal justice or family services system
• In-depth experience and working knowledge of Anishinaabe and Dakota communities, cultures, healing, and language
• Experience providing advocacy, preferably for those involved at any point within the judicial system
• Basic knowledge of the judicial system, Criminal Code, court procedures, and legal terminology
• Must be able to communicate effectively with youth and understand their particular needs
• Must be able to travel to circuit courts throughout Dauphin region
• Must be fluent in Anishinaabe or Dakota language to provide interpretation and translation services for the client and the Court
• Demonstrated success in networking, relationship building, and cultivating trusted relationships with First Nation communities and key stakeholders
• Must be punctual, able to work independently, and receive supervision and direction at a distance.
• Must have excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to problem solve and think critically with strong attention to detail

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Must provide a current and satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search as well as current and clear Child and Adult Abuse Registry Checks
• A valid class 5 MB driver’s license with access to a reliable vehicle for business travel

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Wednesday, January 22^nd, 2025, at 4:00 PM

Please submit a cover letter and resume to:
Human Resources
Southern Chiefs’ Organization
202-600 Empress Street
Winnipeg, MB R3G 0L5
Fax: (204) 946-1871 | hr@scoinc.mb.ca

Preference will be given to qualified First Nations candidates. Please self-identify in your cover letter.

Proof of education will be required at the point of hire where an incumbent has graduated from a relevant program.

Please note that SCO does not offer hybrid/remote work options unless specifically stated.

Testing may form part of the selection process.

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected will be contacted for further consideration.