Community Developer

Chippewas of the Thames First Nation is accepting applicants for the position of:

Position Title:            Community Developer (2)

Department:               Administration Department

Hours of Work:          37.5 hours per week working onsite 8:30am – 4:30pm

Location:                    320 Chippewa Road, Muncey ON

Posting Date:             January 13, 2026

Posting Closes:         February 3, 2026

Summary:

The Community Developer plays a vital role in advancing the Child Centric approach for Chippewas of the Thames First Nation (COTTFN). This approach recognizes that child well-being is inseparable from the well-being of their family, kin, and community. Rooted in Anishinaabe teachings, the role focuses on fostering collaboration, strengthening intergenerational connections, and promoting collective healing and growth through the development of the Child Well-Being Law, sanctioned under Deshkan Ziibiing Anishinaabe Aki Chi-Inaakonigewin. This position is responsible for community engagement, dialogue facilitation, and relationship-building among members both on and off the First Nation. 

Responsibilities:

• Facilitate dialogue sessions, community forums, workshops, and meetings to discuss child and family well-being priorities.
• Identify and mobilize extended families to support ownership in developing the Child Well-Being Law.
• Conduct research, collect stories, and document community insights to inform legislative development.
• Summarize and report community voices and recommendations in collaboration with the Quality Assurance Specialist.
• Develop educational materials and promote awareness on the purpose and impact of the Child Well-Being Law.
• Collaborate with leadership, Elders, prevention staff, and child welfare professionals to draft and refine the law.
• Foster collaboration across departments to support multi-disciplinary community initiatives.
• Act as liaison between the Nation and external partners to ensure alignment with community priorities.
• Design and implement community-based programs that support prevention, family wellness, and cultural healing.
• Facilitate engagement sessions to gather community input on principles and values guiding the law.
• Ensure that traditional teachings are accurately represented through consultation with Elders and knowledge keepers.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary diploma or degree in Social Sciences, Indigenous Studies, Community Development, or related field.
• Minimum two (2) years’ experience in community engagement, program development, or related work.
• Experience facilitating meetings and workshops with Indigenous communities.
• Experience writing reports and presenting information in accessible formats.
• Experience collaborating across departments or with multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities preferred.

What Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Has to Offer:

• Comprehensive benefits for permanent employees, supporting your health, dental, and overall well-being.
• Access to a confidential Family Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support mental, emotional, and family wellness.
• Employer-matched pension plan to help you build long-term financial security.
• Two-week holiday closure over Christmas and New Year’s, providing dedicated time to rest and recharge with family and community.