Education & Social Development Worker

Education/Social Development Worker

$37.50 per hour

(18-Month Contract with potential for extension)

About The Employer

On behalf of Shackan Indian Band, we are searching for an Education/ Social Development Worker (BSDW) located in Merritt, BC. The Shackan Indian Band, also known as “14 Mile,” is a proud Nlaka’pamux First Nations government located in the Nicola Valley of British Columbia. The bands who make up the Scw'exmx are, in turn, members of the Nlaka'pamux Nation. The Nlaka'pamux traditional territory extends well into the State of Washington, as far north as Ashcroft, as far east as Douglas Lake and as far West as Lillooet.

All the communities of the Nlaka'pamux Nation hold title to this territory, encompassing thousands of square kilometers collectively. The Shackan Indian Band has three reserves. The majority of band members reside on the main reserve, located along the Nicola River, which has a total land base of 6,413 acres. The Papsilqua Reserve is located to the northeast of Papsilqua and Skuhun Creek with a total of 730 acres. The Soldatquo Reserve is located a few kilometres north of Shackan with the total land area. of 2,429 acres.

Guided by traditional Scw’exmx values such as respect, sharing, helping, learning, teaching and working together, the Shackan Indian Band is committed to fostering a healthy, self-sufficient community. Their mission is to support the well-being and empowerment of all members through respectful, professional, and positive leadership and service delivery.

About The Role

The Education/Social Development Worker plays a key role in supporting the Shackan Indian Band’s Social Development and Education programs. This position ensures that both programs operate in full compliance with all applicable regulations and agreements. The BSDW serves as the primary point of contact for membership and acts as a resource—providing information, education, and direct support to community members.

In addition to program oversight, the BSDW manages homemaker services under the Social Development department’s Assisted Living program. Responsibilities include completing necessary documentation, collaborating with the local health authority, and reporting on services delivered.

The BSDW supports executive decision-making, maintains confidentiality, and communicates professionally with staff, community members, and external partners. The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, and culturally aware, with strong communication skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Program Implementation & Oversight

• Assist the Community Wellness Manager in implementing the Income Assistance and Education programs.
• Ensure both programs operate in full compliance with all applicable regulations and agreements.
  
  

Education Support & Liaison

• Be a primary contact for both elementary and post-secondary educational institutions.
• Serve as a primary contact, alongside the Community Wellness Manager, for various Education Committees.
• Provide information, education, and direct support to students and families.
• Collaborate with social work entities to support students and families as needed.
• Facilitating programming for kids, youth, and families.
• Attendance at Indigenous Education Council (IEC) meetings at Nicola-Similkameen School District.
  
  

Grant & Reporting Duties

• Follow through on grant applications and reporting related to Education and Income Assistance.
• Submit reports to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and other funders as required.
• Complete BSDW training through ISC and stay current with reporting and training options.
  
  

Community Engagement & Support

• Act as the primary point of contact for membership inquiries related to Social Development and Education.
• Work closely with the Community Wellness Manager, Health Navigator, and other team members in the Wellness Department and Band Office to support families in their growth and healing.
  
  

Social Development

• Oversee the Assisted Living Program.
• Monthly Income Assistance Program.
• Oversee homemaker services under the Social Development department’s Assisted Living program.
• Complete necessary documentation, collaborate with the local health authority, and report on services delivered.
  
  

Child Welfare

• Represent Shackan at Scwexmx Child & Family Social Services (SCFSS) meetings as Band Representative and Social Worker.
• Collaborate with SCFSS and other communities on child welfare programming.
• Support Shackan families by attending meetings and encouraging goal achievement.
• Assist families with their plans and provide referrals and help with applications.
• Deliver child and family programming using prevention funds.
• Work with social workers across the Nicola Valley to provide services.
• Advocate for families and stay updated on cases with SCFSS.
  
  

Confidentiality is of upmost importance.

Skills And Qualifications

• Posses a Bachelor of Social Work or similar post-secondary education
• Should have 2-3 years of professional relevant experience in a social services/education environment.
• Basic accounting and financial experience.
• Self-managed, goal oriented and finish what you start – well organized with strong written, verbal communication and time management skills.
• Demonstrate high emotional intelligence, patience, and integrity.
• Demonstrate a high degree of professionalism and good judgement.
• Experience with MS Office, Zoom, and various other software, ideally including Xyntax.
• Must be able to maintain confidentiality of information and use discretion, tact, and diplomacy when addressing sensitive issues.
• Maintain accurate Education and Social Development files and reports. Provide weekly and/or monthly updates as required.
• Conflict resolution and de-escalation skills.
• Clear Criminal Record/Vulnerable Persons check and possess a valid Class 5 Drivers License with access to a reliable vehicle. Up to date Drivers Abstract must be submitted prior to use of company vehicles or conducting any work-related duties.
  
  

This position will appeal to someone who values flexibility, variety, and meaningful community engagement. This role will act as a key member of a close-knit Community Wellness team, who are focused on individual support and who foster community connectedness with opportunities to build relationships and directly support families. Some days are office-based, while others involve outreach and cultural activities within the community.

This role is 35 hours per week, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM with a one-hour lunch. Work is split between the Shackan Administration Office in Merritt (2099 Granite Ave) and the Community Wellness Building in Shackan. Comfort with driving to Shackan is important, as in-person services and member engagement are central. Occasional evening availability is also required for community programming.

If you’re interested in learning more about this opportunity, please forward your resume to Daniela San Pedro at [email protected]. We thank all applicants; however, only those selected to move forward will be contacted. Preference will be given to Shackan Indian Band community members, though all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.



In accordance with Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code and Section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, preference may be given to qualified candidates with Aboriginal Ancestry.