Full-Time and Term - Early Childhood Education (ECE) - #228178

About ʔaq̓am.

ʔaq̓am is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation (pronounced ‘k-too-nah-ha’). ʔaq̓am Organization exists for the Community. Externally, we are here to serve the Community, and internally, we are our own Community, comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values. As a team, through our own roles and departments, the ʔaq̓am Organization works together to achieve our strategic plan – “ka kniⱡwityaⱡa ~ Our Thinking”, and continue to progress and move our Community forward.

ʔaq̓am is located in the beautiful, sunny centre of Ktunaxa Traditional Territory in the southeast corner of British Columbia. If you love the outdoors, the mountains, fresh air, and the sun, this is the place for you. We are here to work towards achieving ʔaq̓am’s Vision: “A vibrant, healthy community, speaking our language, governing effectively, and maximizing our lands and resources for the benefit of future generations and all living things, in a manner consistent with qanikitȼi (our values and principles).” Be a part of an excellent team, perform meaningful work that will realize long-term benefits, share in worthwhile accomplishments, celebrate successes, join in the camaraderie, build strong relationships and enjoy lifelong learning!

About the Opportunity

We are currently hiring a full-time Early Childhood Educator (ECE) as well as a term ECE to cover an upcoming maternity leave. The Early Childhood Educator is responsible for providing supervision and ensuring the safety of all children enrolled in ʔaq̓amnik̓ Daycare. The ECE helps to plan, organize, and facilitate age-appropriate educational programming, giving priority to the inclusion of culturally based activities. The ECE is responsible for supporting children to gain independence with daily routines and engage in frequent, timely communication with families.

Your key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Build respectful, trusting relationships with families, caregivers, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers, recognizing families as a child’s first and most important teachers.
• Maintain open, strengths-based communication with families about children’s learning, well-being, and development.
• Supervise children at ʔaq̓amnik̓ Daycare, ensuring their safety while in the Centre’s care.
• Plan and facilitate activities to engage children with a focus on supporting land-based learning experiences that reflect Ktunaxa knowledge, seasonal cycles, and relationships to the land.
• Work as part of a trusting team that may include other educators, families, Elders, language speakers, and community staff.

For full job description, please click here.

More About You

In order to qualify for the Early Childhood Educator role, you must have a Early Childhood Education (ECE) Certification and licensing, Food Safe Certificate is an asset, and completion and possession of Valid CPR and First Aid Certificate. Proof of a clear criminal record including vulnerable sector check.

Salary will commensurate with experience from a range ($21.00-26.00) along with applicable provincial, federal and First Nation specific wage enhancements and includes a favorable benefits package and pension plan.

Preference will be given to candidates of Ktunaxa or other Indigenous ancestry and ʔaq̓am encourages applicants to self-identify within your application.
Thank you to all those that apply, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.