Indigenous System Navigator - Emergency Department

Employment Opportunity

Position:  Indigenous System Navigator - Emergency Department

Employment Type:  Full-Time Contract until March 31, 2027 (possibility of extension pending funding)

Vacancy Status:  New Position

Salary Range:  $73,105-$89,910

Location:  Central Region - North Shore Health Network Blind River, St. Joesph's Hospital Elliot Lake, and Espanola Regional Hospital and Health Centre, Espanola, ON

Closing Date:  Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Who you are?  You are highly motivated in sharing your interest in the Health Field enabling you to work in a team environment. Acknowledging the Seven Grandfather Teachings in your work to build relationships.  In addition, you have the ability to draw on your own knowledge and life skills to support and maintain efficient operational functions, with a positive outlook.

Who we are? We are a leader in First Nation Health. Our foundation is Indigenous Health in Indigenous Hands. We provide accessible, quality, culturally safe and holistic health care that supports and enhances the wellness of individuals, families, and communities. We work with our 11 First Nation community partners in the provision of primary health care, traditional healing, mental wellness and addictions, home and community support services and health promotion services. We have recently been approved as the first Indigenous led Ontario Health Team by the Ministry of Health.

The opportunity: The Indigenous System Navigator (ISN) – Emergency Department serves as a culturally safe bridge between hospital emergency departments, First Nation communities, and community-based health and social services. The primary purpose of the role is to support Indigenous patients presenting to the Emergency Department by providing advocacy, system navigation, care coordination, and culturally responsive support to improve the patient experience and health outcomes.

Working collaboratively with Emergency Department clinicians, Indigenous Patient Navigators, Primary Care Providers, Home and Community Support Services, and community partners, the ISN facilitates timely access to appropriate community-based services and resources that support safe discharge planning, continuity of care, and improved transitions between hospital and home.

 The ISN plays a key role in identifying opportunities to prevent avoidable hospital admissions and readmissions by coordinating early intervention, connecting individuals with existing community supports, addressing barriers to care, and ensuring patients and families are informed and engaged in care planning. Through relationship building, advocacy, and collaborative care coordination, the ISN supports equitable access to health services while advancing culturally safe, person-centred care for Indigenous people across the care continuum.

What you need to bring with you:

• Membership, in good standing, with the applicable regulatory body:
  • College of Nurses of Ontario
  • Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers
• Experience in community health, hospital, emergency department, and/or Indigenous health/social service settings
• Strong understanding of the health care system and community-based support
• Cultural competency and knowledge of Indigenous health issues
• Experience working with diverse populations (e.g. mental health, palliative, ABI, seniors, children/youth)
• Clear Vulnerable Sector Check is a condition of employment
• Valid Ontario Driver's License and access to a reliable vehicle

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• The ability to remain calm and composed during crisis or urgent situations
• The ability to travel as required and at times without notice
• Proficiency with computers and various database software, including electronic health records, and Microsoft Word applications
• Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Strong communication and partnership-building skills; ability to interact with clients, families, and team members with sensitivity, tact and discretion
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proven conflict resolution skills
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and unplanned overtime as required.

Why work with us?

• Competitive Salary based on experience
• Paid Extended Health Benefits
• Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)
• Competitive vacation package with an additional 7 Indigenous statutory holidays
• Life-long learning is a priority, offering 10 Professional Development Days and $1200/Annual Budget
• Technology Amenities provided (i.e., laptop, cell phone)
• All travel expenses covered
• High staff satisfaction rated work environment, priority on provider and client experience
• Access to Cultural and Traditional teachings of the Ojibwe People
• 15 days of Personal Leave

What to expect?

Given the traditional practices of Indigenous people, from time-to-time exposure to smoke from the burning of sacred medicines such as tobacco, sweet grass, sage or cedar may occur.

Accessibility accommodations will be available upon request.

An offer of employment will be conditional upon an acceptable vulnerable sector police records check.

Hiring of Indigenous People will be given preference, as allowed under Section 14 of the Ontario Human Rights Code – Special Programs.

No artificial intelligence is used in screening, assessing, or selecting applicants for this position.

Qualified individuals are invited to submit to the link in BambooHR, a cover letter along with current resume, certificates, diplomas, and three work related references.

Thank you in advance to all who apply, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.