Position Title: INTERIM ACADEMIC ADIVSOR
Reports to: Manager, Employment & Training
Job Overview
Reporting to the Manager, Employment and Training, the Academic Advisor is responsible for providing culturally appropriate academic guidance and support for the Haisla Nation community. The Advisor is a critical resource and an advocate, assisting in navigating the academic, social, and cultural aspects of education by advising on academic planning, application processes, course selection and accessing community resources. The Academic Advisor collaborates with school districts, post-secondary institutions and external training organizations to enhance Indigenous students' educational and personal success by providing specialized advising and advocacy that respects and incorporates Indigenous cultures, traditions, and perspectives.
Organizational Status
The Haisla Nation is the band government of the Haisla people. Our mission is to build a powerful, prosperous and proud community, healthy in mind, body and spirit. We believe in building a strong and thriving community, with healthy and happy members and a sustained and prosperous environment. We are about 1962+ people, with approximately 532 living in Haisla (Kitamaat Village). We have lived off the land and waters of our traditional territory for thousands of years, and it remains the focus of all we do.
Duties & Responsibilities
Academic Advisory Duties:
- Provide one-on-one academic advising to Haisla community members and students.
- Support students in setting both short-term and long-term academic and career goals.
- Offer guidance on career options that align with students’ interests, cultural values, and the needs of their communities.
- Assist students with navigating post-secondary, training and education application processes, accessing resources, and understanding academic policies and procedures.
- Develop personalized plans to support academic success and well-being.
- Assist students with course selection, ensuring that choices meet program requirements while considering individual interests and career aspirations.
- Guide students through university/college policies, academic requirements, and deadlines.
- Help students navigate academic challenges such as workload management, time management, and balancing cultural responsibilities with academic demands.
- Assist students in applying for scholarships, bursaries, and grants specifically available to Indigenous students.
- Organize workshops, study groups, and peer mentoring programs to support academic skills development.
- Advocate for policies and programs that improve the academic environment, including the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge into the curriculum.
- Connect students with cultural resources, Elders, and community leaders for support and mentorship.
- Connect students with internships, work placements, or mentorship opportunities that promote professional and personal development.
Administrative Duties:
- Maintain confidentiality and ensure the privacy and security of records.
- Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance culturally responsive advising and advocacy skills.
- Perform other tasks within scope of position as required.
Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Social Work, Indigenous Studies, or a related field or equivalent.
- 1 to 3 years of recent related experience working in academic advising, career counseling, or student services.
- Knowledge of the BC post-secondary education system, including policies, program requirements, and resources.
- Knowledge of the unique challenges and barriers that First Nations students face in higher education, including systemic racism, financial hardship, and family or community responsibilities.
- Empathy, patience, and a passion for supporting clients on their educational journey.
- Strong relationship building skills with ability to network, advocate and connect with a variety of stakeholders.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to exercise tact, diplomacy, discretion and adherence to confidentiality requirements.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and various databases, search engines and Outlook/email.
- Satisfactory completion of criminal records check (with vulnerable sector screening if relevant).
Salary Range: $34.90/hr - $39.01/hr
Position Type: Full-time
Number of Openings: 1
Closing Date: Will remain open until the position is filled.
While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
