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BACKGROUND:

SCO is a growing and dynamic regional First Nation organization that represents 33 Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations and more than 92,000 citizens in what is now southern Manitoba. Established in 1999 by the Chiefs, SCO is mandated as an independent organization to protect, preserve, promote, and enhance First Nation peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.

OVERVIEW:

Reporting to the Manager of Court & Justice Services, the Impact of Colonization Report (ICR) Writer will prepare and write Impact of Colonization Reports based upon client interviews regarding their background and unique circumstances that lead to their involvement in the criminal justice system, resulting in criminal charges and current sentencing date.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Interviews and Research:

· Schedule interviews in a timely manner

· Interview clients who have been criminally charged and are awaiting their sentencing date

· Interview collateral interviewees who can provide background information about the client and corroborate their unique background and circumstances

· Interview First Nation knowledge keepers, Elders, or other trusted members who have historical knowledge about the client’s First Nation

· Conduct research about the history and background of the client’s First Nation community including online research and in-person research such as travelling to SCO member First Nations.

· Conduct individualized research for each client’s healing plan whether it is in a correctional institute or in community

Writing Reports:

· Write a fulsome ICR for each client, adhering to ICR factors and principles, that does not include opinion or assumptions

Liaise with Collaterals and Communities:

· Travel to circuit court locations for criminal sentence hearings

· Contact and meet with First Nation community service providers and resources for wrap-around services, programming and supports

· Communicate with defense counsel and Crown prosecutors

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

· Degree or diploma level studies in Indigenous Studies, Criminal Justice, Social Work, Law or a related field. A combination of education and experience may be considered

· Experience writing reports that include significant history and context for Indigenous clients who have had contact with systems such as Corrections or Child and Family Services

· Knowledge of R v. Gladue case and subsequent court decisions related to Indigenous offenders, the history of the colonization of Indigenous peoples, and the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system

· Experience working in the justice or legal field such as probation services, First Nation restorative justice, or court services

· Experience coordinating and networking with First Nation community service providers and resources to create wrap-around services

· Experience interviewing clients and conducting research using a trauma-informed process that is non-judgmental and empathetic

· Knowledgeable in Anishinaabe and/or Dakota culture, traditions, and practices

· Strong written communication skills with demonstrated ability to take comprehensive and organized notes and transform them into concise, actionable summaries

· Exceptional interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity, with a demonstrated ability to build trust and facilitate collaboration

· Ability to manage competing deadlines, work independently, and handle confidential or sensitive information appropriately

· Proficiency in the use of computers and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Teams)

· Ability to speak Anishinaabe or Dakota languages is an asset

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

· A current and satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search

· A valid class 5 MB driver’s license with access to a reliable vehicle for business travel

· If the employee is a member of a registered profession, they must be a member in good standing with their regulatory body

· The successful candidate will be required to obtain security clearance to enter institutions

WAGE RANGE: $65,000 - $70,000 Annually

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Friday, November 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM CST

Please submit a cover letter and resume to:

Human Resources

Southern Chiefs’ Organization

202-600 Empress Street

Winnipeg, MB R3G 0L5

Fax: (204) 946-1871 | hr@scoinc.mb.ca

Preference will be given to qualified First Nations candidates. Please self-identify in your cover letter.

Proof of education will be required at the point of hire where an incumbent has graduated from a relevant program.

Please note that SCO does not offer hybrid/remote work options unless specifically stated.

Testing may form part of the selection process.

An eligibility list may be created for similar positions and will remain in effect for up to six months.

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected will be contacted for further consideration.

Pay: $65,000.00-$70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Application question(s):

• I voluntarily declare I am a First Nations/Status Indian/Treaty-Indian because of my tribal affiliation with the following First Nation and/or Band:
• I voluntarily declare I am non-status Indigenous, Metis, and/or Inuk:

Work Location: In person