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Indigenous Court Worker

Term Position - March 31, 2026

Location: Thompson, Manitoba

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.

Role 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 as a liaison between the Court, MKO Chief and Councils, Justice Portfolio Councillors, 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
  
• MKO is political advocacy organization that works to represent the leadership and member First Nations. All staff at MKO may be given other duties as assigned that enable MKO to fulfill the mandate and responsibility to its member communities.

Education and Experience

• Grade 12 Diploma or equivalency.
• Minimum of 2-5 work experience in a social or justice service environment.
• Proven experience/ability to deal and communicate effectively with Indigenous people, the public and court related organizations
• Knowledge/experience with court processes and proceedings
• Knowledge/experience of the resources available for clients involved with the criminal justice system. 
• Experience working in Indigenous or northern communities
• Knowledge of issues relating to justice and policing related to First Nations as well as restorative justice practices
• 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
• 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
  
• Preference will be given to Indigenous peoples
• Candidates must reside in Thompson
  
• Must be able to obtain a satisfactory Criminal Record Check (including Vulnerable Sector Search), a satisfactory Child Abuse Registry Check and a satisfactory Adult Abuse Registry Check upon hiring.
• Ability to comply with all MKO policies and procedures.

Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience

Interested applicants are invited to submit their cover letter identifying the position applying for and resume, along with 3 professional reference listings (include a most recent employer reference). 

This recruitment process will remain open until filled. 

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Preference will be given to qualified First Nations applicants; applicants are encouraged to self-declare in their resume or cover letter.  No phone calls will be accepted.

Incorporated in 1981 as the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO). MKO is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that provides a collective voice on issues of inherent, Treaty, Indigenous, and human rights for citizens of the 26 sovereign First Nations we represent. The MKO First Nations are signatory to Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10.

Please visit our website at mkonation.com