Nehbookaat Gehnwehndung – Traditional Knowledge Keeper Full-time Permanent Position

Noojmowin Teg Health Centre is seeking the full-time services of a Nehbookaat Gehnwehndung (Traditional Knowledge Keeper). With direction, the Traditional Knowledge Keeper provides Indigenous culturally based holistic healing approaches and practices that address the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual aspects of healing and health of individuals and families. The Traditional Knowledge Keeper is responsible for providing traditional healing services, prescribing traditional medicines, holding traditional ceremonies and gatherings, and other traditional supports that align with Anishinabek values, practices and spirituality. 

Noojmowin Teg Health Centre is comprised of a multi-team of health care professions providing community-based services through the use of a holistic approach that integrates both traditional and western healing methods. Our unique team includes: Primary Care and Allied Health Services, Mental Health & Addictions Services, Health Promotion and Traditional Healing and Cultural Services. Services are offered on-site and community based (through the Manitoulin Island District First Nations Health Centres). 

Given the traditional practices of the Anishinabek, from time to time, exposure to wood smoke and the burning of sacred medicines, including tobacco, sweet grass, sage and cedar, may occur within the work setting.

NTHC is an inclusive employer. Accommodation is available in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.

Duties:

• Provide traditional healing services to community members and their families/caregivers throughout the life cycle
• Provide ongoing traditional healing services in the areas of assessment, traditional medicine education, wholistic support for individuals, families, caregivers, treatment using traditional herbal medicines and other traditional remedies
• Promote physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual health and wellbeing through the provision of traditional ceremonies and practices • Ensure safety is maintained between the use of traditional and western medicines
• Work with and support the Fire and Lodge Keeper in supporting healer activities, including gathering and preparing traditional medicines, preparing and carrying out ceremonies, supporting cultural safety workshops, maintaining sacred fires and cleaning spaces, and growing in their overall traditional abilities and gifts

Qualifications:

• A recognized Healer within the Anishinabek communities
• Proven experience in giving traditional medicines to those seeking traditional healing
• Proven ability to provide requested support to individuals and/or groups using traditional teachings and practices
• Knowledge of Indigenous teachings and traditional practitioners
• An understanding of how western medicines interact with traditional medicines
• Ability to speak Anishinaabemowin
• Valid Class G driver’s license and access to a vehicle
• Clear Vulnerable Sector Check required

Submission Pre-Requisites: Please submit a cover letter, resume, list three (3) work-related references.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination status required.

Deadline: On-going until the position is filled

Applications: Can be received marked ‘Confidential’, by email at info@noojmowin-teg.ca, by facsimile at (705) 368-3922, or by mail:

Attn: Human Resources
Noojmowin Teg Health Centre
Postal Bag 2002, Hwy. 540
Little Current, ON P0P 1K0

To learn more about this employment opportunity, call (705) 368-0083 ext. 235

Chi-miigwetch/Thank you for their interest in Noojmowin Teg Health Centre; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.