Indigenous Combined Court Worker

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Dryden Native Friendship Centre

Indigenous Combined Court Worker

The Dryden Native Friendship Centre (DNFC) is currently seeking applications for the position of Indigenous Combined Court Worker. The Indigenous Combined Court Worker plays a vital role in supporting Indigenous individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Working within a Friendship Centre, this position provides culturally grounded support, advocacy, and referrals. Acting as a liaison between clients, the courts, and community resources, the worker helps reduce systemic barriers and promotes fair, respectful treatment rooted in Indigenous traditions, values, and healing approaches.

This role is rooted in respect, cultural safety, and a commitment to reducing systemic barriers while promoting fair and equitable treatment aligned with Indigenous values and traditions.

POSITION DETAILS:

• Schedule: 8:30am to 4:30 pm Monday – Friday – 35 hours per week – Some flexibility to meet program needs
• Status:
  Regular Full-Time
• Compensation:
  $50,000 per annum
• Benefits:
  Group retirement plan with 3% match, 100% employer paid benefit premiums, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

JOB DUTIES INCLUDE BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO:

• Support clients in understanding court processes, charges, and legal rights
• Provide one-on-one assistance before, during, and after court appearances
• Advocate on behalf of clients within the justice system
• Assist clients in accessing legal counsel and preparing for court
• Collaborate with court personnel, duty counsel, probation officers, and Crown attorneys
• Attend court regularly to support clients and monitor cases
• Provide relevant background information (with consent), including support for Gladue considerations
• Connect clients with culturally relevant supports (Elders, healing circles, traditional practices)
• Promote restorative and culturally grounded justice approaches
• Refer clients to housing, mental health, addictions, and employment services
• Maintain accurate, confidential client records
• Prepare reports and statistics for funders and organizational needs
• Deliver information sessions on the justice system and Indigenous rights
• Build strong relationships with community partners and justice stakeholders

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Diploma or degree in Social Work, Justice Studies, Indigenous Studies, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Knowledge of the Canadian criminal justice system
• Strong understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and the impacts of colonization and intergenerational trauma
• Experience working with vulnerable populations
• Excellent communication, advocacy, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Lived experience and/or strong connections to Indigenous communities is an asset
• Knowledge of restorative justice practices is an asset
• Experience with Friendship Centres or community-based organizations is an asset
• Familiarity with local court systems and procedures is an asset

• Required:
  • Valid First Aid & CPR (or willingness to obtain)
  • Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check
  • Valid G Driver’s License
• Assets:
  • Indigenous language skills

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Frequent attendance at court
• Interaction with individuals experiencing trauma, addictions, and mental health challenges
• Shared office environment
• Occasional travel, evening, and weekend work
• Occasional overnight meetings, training, or workshops