Cree Language Community Planner

Employment Opportunity

Cree Language Community Planner

Contract Employment Opportunity

The East Central First Nations Education Authority (ECFNEA) is deeply committed to delivering the highest quality of educational services by our people, to our people, for our people. The Authority designs and implements culturally grounded, trauma-sensitive programming tailored to the unique needs of the James Smith Cree Nation (JSCN). Administrative and educational facilities include a sub-office in Nipawin, Saskatchewan, and the Bernard Constant Community School (BCCS) located directly within the JSCN community.

Position Summary:

A Cree Language Community Planner will work with East Central First Nations Education Authority James Smith Cree (JSCN) communities to design, coordinate, and lead language revitalization strategies, Cree cultural programs, and community-driven action plans. To promote Nehiyaw and cultural development through the delivery of programs and services by planning events and activities with the Elders/Knowledge Keepers. Coordinate workshops/classes that will include community members of all ages in Nehiyawewin and culture. This position is a full-time contract position starting November 23, 2026 – March 31, 2027, with the possibility of renewal and is contingent on the availability of funding.

Required Knowledge, Qualifications and Experience

Core Responsibilities

• Language Revitalization Planning: Lead the development, execution, and updating of a comprehensive Community Language Revitalization Plan.

· Community Engagement: Facilitate public meetings, open houses, visioning sessions, and workshops with community members, families, and Elders to gather input on language goals. Must be able to plan and coordinate activities and events. Prepare monthly calendar of activities to distribute to the community.

• Resource & Curriculum Development: Collaborate with fluent speakers, teachers, and cultural mentors to build language learning resources, digital archives, and audio/video documentation.
• Team & Network Coordination: Form and guide a local language planning committee or team and liaise with ECFNEA and (JSCN) community.
• Administration: Manage program budgets and track expenses,

Qualifications & Requirements

• Language & Cultural Knowledge: Fluency in the Cree language (or working proficiency) combined with a deep understanding of Cree culture, traditions, and local community values.
• Education & Experience: Post-secondary degree in Indigenous Studies, Linguistics, Education, Community Planning, or a related field—or equivalent years of experience in program management and First Nations community work.
• Governance & Collaboration: Familiarity with First Nations governance structures, strong group-facilitation skills, and the ability to work closely with Elders, parents, school community and youth.
• Administrative Skills: Proficiency in office software (Microsoft Office, database management), proposal writing, and organizational planning.

The successful candidate must possess:
Possess a Bachelor of Education degree, Indigenous Languages Certificate or related experience in community Cree language planning.

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A CPIC with vulnerable sector check;
A valid Driver’s license;

Preference will be given to existing employees and to members of the First Nations participating in the East Central First Nation Education Authority.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation commensurate with experience and education.

Extended health benefits, vacation or holiday pay, and personal/sick leave may be available depending on contract terms.