Cultural Advisor, Bachelor of Indigenous Justice Program

First Nations Technical Institute

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

FNTI is an Indigenous-owned and governed post-secondary institution dedicated to serving Indigenous learners. Established in 1985, FNTI has graduated over 4,000 students through certificate, diploma, and degree programs delivered in partnership with Ontario’s colleges and universities. As a First Nation-mandated, not-for-profit, and registered charitable organization accredited by the Indigenous Advanced Education and Skills Council (IAESC), FNTI delivers a range of post-secondary programming grounded in Indigenous knowledge and community connection. Through its community-driven and intensive delivery model, FNTI enables learners to remain connected to their families and communities while pursuing meaningful educational and career pathways. Since the Indigenous Institute Act, 2017, FNTI has advanced the development of independently accredited degree programs, created by Indigenous people, for Indigenous people. Programming is delivered from its main campus in Tyendinaga on the Bay of Quinte, as well as virtually. Under the direction of the Dean, FNTI Programs, the Cultural Advisor has a key role in providing and mentoring teaching, knowledge dissemination, and cultural support for our learners. The incumbent will mentor as well through co-supporting and co-advising administration, coordination, research and community engagement. The Cultural Advisor will focus on these roles while always ensuring Indigenous Knowledge is a priority throughout the programs. The Cultural Advisor will support the strategic priorities of the institute while adhering to the Values, Mission and Vision of FNTI.

Requirements

A Degree or diploma in education or another related field; and
3 years’ experience working experience in a related field as it pertains to postsecondary institutions and Indigenous institutions; or
A combination of education, training and experience which FNTI deems to be equivalent
Advanced knowledge in the history and context of the Indigenous peoples in Canada, including the Truth and Reconciliation process and report
Practical experience working with Indigenous communities in the areas of community development/social work or related fields
Ability to teach from an Indigenous epistemology
Experience and interest in high quality teaching and curriculum development at the postsecondary level or equivalent experience as a trainer in industry
Committed to excellence in teaching and learning and to work within a team environment
Excellent organizational skills and time management skills to meet tight deadlines
Ability to use sound judgement and discretion
Above-average problem-solving skills with ability to be resourceful
Ability to perform in a complex, highly sensitive environment while maintaining the highest degree of confidentiality
Ability to act in a leadership role
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Engaging public speaking skills, active listening and facilitation skills
Excellent written and oral communications skills.
Excellent research and analytical skills
Ability to produce quality written documentation for reports and proposals
Awareness of lateral violence caused by colonization and recognize lateral compassion as a path to heal Indigenous nation
Willing and able to travel occasionally and work overtime as required.
Successful candidates must provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check.
Must be legally entitled to work in Ontario, Canada.

Responsibilities

Provide mentorship to learners in a cultural framework;
Include Indigenous cultural practices and world-view in program and classroom facilitations / conversations;
Co-support all learning outcomes (vocational, course and Indigenous) and deliver appropriate cultural teaching methodologies for meeting those learning outcomes and assessing learner success.
Provide medicines, healing and Indigenous leadership qualities to our learners during each course;
Provide ceremonies, traditional teachings that are appropriate to meeting the Indigenous learning outcomes;
Implementing appropriate Indigenous protocols within the classroom and ensuring the cultural framework is followed (opening and closings, smudging, circles, drumming and singing and cultural practices);
Ensure an Indigenous Pedagogy is implemented;
Mentor learners with cultural supports and assistance in a way that is meaningful to the learner.
Attend meetings as required (This could include SAP meetings, planning meetings, etc.)
Mentorship around Indigenous-focused curriculum and pedagogy that support course learning outcomes and ensure that they are conducive to learners needs;
Mentorship in research conversations of Indigenous-focused curriculum development.
Other duties as required.