You're using an older version of Internet Explorer that is no longer supported. Please update your browser.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Indigenous Food Ways Community Outreach Facilitator

Posted 10 days ago

Job Details

Category

Location

Job Description

About ISFS

ISFS is an applied research and extension unit at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU). We investigate and support regional food systems as key elements of sustainable communities, focusing predominantly on British Columbia but also extending our programming to other regions. Our applied research focuses on the potential of regional food systems in terms of agriculture and food, economics, community health, policy, community development, and environmental integrity. Our extension programming provides information and support for farmers, communities, business, policy makers, and others. Community collaboration is central to our approach and we routinely work with community activists and agencies, leaders, Indigenous Nation governments, settler governments and other academics. In alignment with long held ISFS values, objectives and programmatic foci, we have prioritized serving and supporting Indigenous Nations and communities to achieve their food sovereignty aspirations. Similarly, we strive to manifest reconciliation into all our work. More about us and our work is at www.kpu.ca/isfs

SUMMARY

The Institute for Sustainable Food Systems (ISFS) is seeking a full-time outreach facilitator to work with and advance Indigenous Nations food system aspirations.

Indigenous Food Ways Community Outreach and Development Specialist will support ISFS to build and nurture relationships with First Nations, develop programs around food sovereignty and regenerative agriculture, and increase our capacity to prepare grants along with and in support of our First Nation partners. The employee will be expected to represent ISFS and effectively work with and support Indigenous Nations and communities respectfully, sensitively and demonstrating proper protocol. The position will involve but not be limited to relationship building, grant writing, community engagement, planning, program development, project management, and report preparation. Agriculture and food system knowledge is a plus.

Position Overview
  • Contract: Full-time (35 hours/week) for one year, with the opportunity to renew on an ongoing, annual basis dependent on funding and performance
  • Position start date: ASAP
  • Application deadline: Open until satisfactory candidate is found
  • Location: Flexible (a combination of working from home, partner community visits, and in-office meetings as necessary), in British Columbia

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The primary responsibility of the facilitator will be to develop and nurture relationships and support project development and action with our Indigenous partners.

Key tasks include:
  • Outreach to and within Indigenous communities
  • Relationship building
  • Partnership development
  • Grant and report writing
  • Project development and matching of ISFS staff expertise as fit.
  • Facilitate Nation to Nation discussion and project collaborations.
  • Project management

QUALIFICATIONS

The successful applicant for this position should:
  • Have knowledge of Indigenous, First Nations, Metis or Inuit communities and cultural protocols from lived experience or significant experience collaborating with First Nation communities. Have the ability to prepare grants and reports
  • Have the ability to (co-) develop and manage projects
  • Have the ability to work as a team member and independently
  • Have an interest and ability in working with a diversity of people and a multidisciplinary team
  • Familiar with cultural safety/reconciliation
  • Have training and experience in trauma-informed practices
  • Be able to travel; have a car and valid driver's license
  • Have an interest in food system development work
  • Be legally entitled to work in Canada

The following will be highly desirable:
  • Identify as Indigenous/First Nations/Metis/Inuit
  • Knowledge of Indigenous Nations and communities whose traditional territories are located in what is colonially known as BC and culturally appropriate protocols
  • Group facilitation experience is a plus
  • Food systems and organic/regenerative agriculture knowledge

Salary Information

Anticipated hourly pay rate: $32.41 - $41.03 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience

We at Kwantlen Polytechnic University respectfully acknowledge that we live, work and study in a region that overlaps with the unceded traditional and ancestral First Nations territories of the Musqueam, Katzie, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen, Qayqayt, and Kwikwetlem, and with the lands of the Kwantlen First Nation, which gifted its name to this university.

Proudly sharing the name of the Kwantlen First Nation, the word 'Kwantlen' means Tireless Runner, and is reflected in the university's motto: "through tireless effort, knowledge, and understanding." The representation of a wolf and salmon in KPU's Coat of Arms, was created by former KPU Fine Arts student, Brandon Gabriel, nephew of the hereditary Chief of the Kwantlen People, Chief Marilyn Gabriel.

About Kwantlen Polytechnic University

As Canada’s only polytechnic university, KPU is committed to providing learners with opportunities to develop hands-on, applied skills, in addition to traditional academics. Established in 1981, the university has five campuses across Metro Vancouver (Surrey, Richmond, Langley, Cloverdale, and Surrey Central City). KPU currently offers a range of degrees, diplomas, certificates, and citations in 120 diverse programs, many of which are unique to the university. Students graduate career-ready and prepared to make a positive impact in their community thanks to a well-rounded education, where thought meets action. With a mission to transform lives and empower positive change, KPU employees work collaboratively to inspire our students, our communities and one another. Our success is driven by the dedication and passion of the people who work here and we strive to attract, develop, reward and retain our talented employees. When you join KPU, envision yourself joining an inclusive and diverse environment that embraces collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to student success. At KPU, community isn't just a buzzword; it's a lived experience where faculty and staff actively contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, fostering a sense of belonging. Immerse yourself in a workplace that values your unique perspectives, encourages professional growth, and actively engages with the local community. KPU offers competitive compensation and employee benefits, as well as other perks, through our Total Rewards package. From health and well-being to career development, we're committed to helping our people achieve success.

Industry

Education

Company Size

1001-5000 employees

Application closing date is 2025-08-04

Current Openings

Back to search detail

Interested in jobs like this?

Sign up for email alerts
Get job alerts

Work with our Featured Employers

M space man icon M
Watch now
H O T Marketing. Tips. Sauce.
Marketing On Mars Podcast Full episodes twice per month
Job successfully reported

Thank you for helping us identify suspicious behaviour.