Position Title: Intake & Assessment Worker (Contract) Department: Child, Youth, and Family Well-Being Services Hours of Work: 37.5 hours per week onsite 8:30am – 4:30pm Location: 328 Chippewa Road, Muncey ON and/or London satellite office Summary The Intake & Assessment Worker plays a key role in supporting access to culturally safe, trauma-informed, and holistic mental health services for children, youth, adults, and families within Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. This position serves as the first point of contact for clients, gathering information, conducting culturally appropriate assessments, and ensuring referrals to both traditional and Western supports as needed. The worker is an integral part of the Mental Health Team and operates under the Seven Sacred Teachings and community protocols, ensuring each client’s journey begins with respect, compassion, and safety. Responsibilities Serve as the first point of contact for individuals, families, and community members seeking mental health services, providing a welcoming, respectful, and confidential intake process that reflects First Nation values. Explain available services, supports, and healing options, including both traditional and Western approaches. Conduct comprehensive strength-based assessments of client needs, resources, and goals using holistic frameworks. Develop initial care or service plans in partnership with clients and families, ensuring cultural safety and inclusivity. Refer clients to appropriate internal programs, cultural practitioners, community resources, or external partners. Work closely with the Manager, mental health staff, and community partners to ensure seamless service coordination. Respond to clients in crisis when navigating external systems to ensure access to service. Maintain strong working relationships with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and other cultural supports to ensure balanced pathways of care. Maintain clear communication and initiate debriefing opportunities with supervisor when required. Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date intake records and assessment documentation. Support program evaluation by contributing to data collection, reporting, and quality improvement processes. Document triage decisions, rationale, and follow-up plans in accordance with organizational and community protocol. Respect and follow Chippewas of the Thames First Nation cultural protocols during assessments and referrals. Engage in ongoing cultural learning, including participation in ceremonies and teachings to strengthen practice. Assist and participate in staff and department meetings, and in community events both on the First Nation and after treaty territory when required. Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Indigenous Studies, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Minimum 3 years’ experience in intake, assessment, or front-line service within a health, social service, or First Nation community setting. Experience working with First Nations, with understanding of intergenerational trauma, colonization, and community wellness approaches. Knowledge of traditional healing practices, ceremonies, and cultural teachings. Current First Aid/CPR certification. Valid “G” driver’s license and insured vehicle. Clear CPIC and Vulnerable Sector Screen/Check. What Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Has to Offer Comprehensive benefits for permanent employees supporting health, dental, and overall well-being. Employer-matched pension plan to help build long-term financial security. Access to a confidential Family Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support mental, emotional, and family wellness. Two-week holiday closure over Christmas and New Year’s, providing dedicated time to rest and recharge with family and community. EEO Statement Chippewas of the Thames First Nation gives hiring preference to qualified Indigenous applicants, with first preference given to qualified Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Band Members. Applicants who wish to be considered under this preference are encouraged to self-identify in their application. #J-18808-Ljbffr