To view this posting as a PDF file, please click here. 

 

MKO Indigenous Court Worker

First Nations Justice Strategy
3 Full Time Positions – 2 in Thompson, 1 in The Pas

The Indigenous Court Worker (ICW) will be an employee of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) as part of the First Nations Justice Strategy (FNJS), which is a partnership between MKO, the Province of Manitoba and the Federal Justice Departments.  The FNJS works to improve implementation of the Justice System for MKO First Nation communities and citizens by providing alternatives and initiatives with an emphasis on Restorative Justice that is both culturally sensitive and appropriate. The ICW will work as a liaison between the Court and MKO citizens and their families who may be in conflict with the Criminal Justice System to ensure that they are provided with fair, equitable, culturally relevant and responsive treatment.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Work under the direction and supervision of the MKO Justice Programs Manager, Assistant Program Manager and/or designate
  • Provide advocacy, support, education and navigation of the court system, legal resources and other information to the client at the earliest opportunity
  • Explain nature of the charge(s), their rights, responsibilities, expectations of the Court Process, and ensure he/she understands the Court proceedings, outcomes, any sanctions or sentences
  • Assist the Court by explaining the various traditional values, teachings, and beliefs of Indigenous People of the MKO Territories that will assist with the proceedings
  • Explain to the client; the sentencing/diversion timelines and/or referrals to an alternative community -based justice program for any interventions, programs and/or treatment.
  • Explain to the client; the consequences of failing to complete/comply with any sentence/ diversion programs, interventions, and treatment as directed by the Court
  • Work in partnership with MKO First Nations, Community Justice Workers and Justice Committees and make referrals to any/all relevant resources as required and report back to the Court and MKO Justice Program Manager(s) or designate on the progress
  • Participate regularly in ongoing professional development and training as provided by MKO
  • Maintain a filing system of services rendered for tracking and statistical recording purposes
  • Act a liaison between the Court and MKO Chief and Councils, Justice Portfolio Councillors and Community Justice Workers and Justice Committees
  • Assist in following through with any recommendations of the Court, Chief and Council, Justice Committee, or Elders which can include, but not limited to, sharing circles, sentencing circles, peace-making process, mediation, conflict resolution, community services work and any other
  • Perform all other duties as assigned

Education and Experience:

  • Minimum Grade 12 Diploma or equivalency
  • Must be fluent in Cree, Dene, Oji-Cree, or any other Indigenous language within the MKO region and provide interpretation, translation services for the accused and the Court
  • Strong initiative and ability to work independently and as a team member
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficient computer skills and the ability to use Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook
  • Knowledge of issues relating to Justice and Policing related to First Nations as well as restorative justice practices
  • Possess a valid Manitoba Drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle
  • Must have the ability to travel to various MKO communities as required, and work flexible hours
  • Criminal record, child abuse and vulnerable sector checks are required
  • Experience working in Indigenous or northern communities
  • Preference will be given to Indigenous peoples
  • Candidates must reside in Thompson, Opaskwayak Cree Nation or The Pas, MB

Salary is dependant upon qualifications and experience.

Interested applicants are invited to submit a cover letter, resume, and two (2) references by 4:00 PM on December 6, 2022 to Shawna Flett at [email protected].

We thank all applicants, only those applicants considered for further review will be contacted.