S7extekékstmen

Application Restrictions

Open to both Internal and external

Job Type

Administrative/Management

Posting In effect from

26/4/2024

Closing Application Date

17/5/2024

Applications will be reviewed commencing the closing application date and may continue until the position is filled.

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Admin Type

Ongoing

Anticipated Start Date

1/6/2024

Position End Date (If Applicable)

DUTIES

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) seeks a dynamic and collaborative individual for the role of S7extekékstmen in the Office of the Vice-President Research (OVPR).

S7extekékstmen is a person who is a necessary part of a team, project or any activity; a successful outcome is predicated on the knowledge and effectiveness of this person - indispensable. (literal translation “right- hand person”) - Daniel Calhoun, Skítsestn Elder.

To listen to an audio recording of S7extekékstmen pronunciation, please click here.

The successful candidate will also work closely with the Office of Indigenous Education (IE). The S7extekékstmen will support existing and future Indigenous research initiatives, foster relationships with Indigenous communities, and offer dedicated support to Indigenous faculty and students.

A key responsibility of the S7extekékstmen is to advance Indigenous methodologies, pedagogies, research, and Indigenous Ways of Knowing. The successful candidate will create and sustain an environment that strengthens Indigenous research, community, education, and culture throughout the entire research ecosystem at TRU. The successful candidate will actively contribute to nurturing a flourishing relationship with Secwépemc communities, recognizing the significance of the lands on which both TRU campuses are located.

This role goes beyond the immediate responsibilities of honouring TRU's ten- year strategic goal to “honour truth, reconciliation, and rights.” A distinctive aspect of this position is its active involvement in integrating Secwépemc language, culture, and values into every level of the university. Exceptional consideration will be given to Secwépemc worldview and belief systems, emphasizing the university's commitment to truth, reconciliation, and mutual respect.

In assuming this role, the individual will play a crucial part in upholding the values and commitments that define Thompson Rivers University's dedication to Indigenous relationships, education, research, and community engagement. Moreover, the position aligns with TRU's core value of “Xyemstwécw,” emphasizing respect for each other, the land, knowledge, and the region's peoples.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES Working closely with others in the OVPR and IE, this position supports Indigenous research initiatives and graduate students, champions advancement of Indigenous research supports, implements strategic initiatives, reviews Indigenous research administration practices, and leads community engagement and relationship-building activities that support TRU's commitment to honour truth, reconciliation and rights.

Supports and Coordinates Implementation of Indigenous Research Considerations

Provides support to Indigenous faculty members and student researchers.

Support of faculty initiatives, including research design and use of appropriate methodology and data collection with a strong focus on relational community engagement.

Works with project teams to contribute ideas and assist in developing frameworks for Indigenous faculty and student research programs

Maintains a strong understanding of the literature and the legislative requirements of Indigenous Research strategic directions and frameworks (e.g., Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles) set by the Tri-Agencies and other granting bodies

Supports initiatives to recognize and incorporate Secwépemc and Indigenous culture and values in TRU's response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action and UNDRIP

Research and Resource Development

Supports the initiatives of IE and OVPR to ensure Secwépemc/Indigenous research issues are considered at all levels of the university.

Advances knowledge of Indigenous peoples and cultures, in particular Secwépemc people

Develops and supports strategic communication and resources to grow awareness and knowledge of Indigenous research methodologies and research ethics in conjunction with the Research Communications Officer

Supports initiatives to recognize and incorporate Secwépemc and Indigenous culture, knowledge and history within TRU

Works to ensure Secwépemc protocols are communicated widely across the University.

Promote and act as a support for the implementation of the Secwépemc Nation Research Ethics Guidelines.

Supports the guidelines set out in the TRU-Tkemlúps te Secwépemc Partnership Agreement

Supports the Secwépemc Nation Research Ethics Guide by TRU and community researchers

Builds Relationships and Creates Engagement with Internal and External Indigenous Communities

Collaborates with key stakeholders within the OVPR, IE and faculties/units across campus

Develops and fosters external relationships with Indigenous communities, community organizations, leadership, other post-secondary institutions, research networks and centres.

Assists with Indigenous research knowledge mobilization and knowledge translation related to projects, programs and initiatives.

Supports growth and development of Indigenous research and community engagement initiatives in culturally sensitive ways to meet OVPR and IE strategic goals and objectives.

Strengthens TRU's relationship with Secwépemc/Indigenous communities and organizations and works collaboratively to build and maintain trust between TRU and the Secwépemc/Indigenous communities

Works specifically with the Secwépemc nation, particularly with key people from the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and T̓éxelc the traditional territories the TRU Kamloops and Williams Lake campuses are located on.

Faculty and Staff Relations

Develops and supports the efforts to recruit, retain, and support Secwépemc/Indigenous employees and to strengthen opportunities for Indigenous scholarship, study, engagement and outreach to the community

REPORTS TO Director, Research Partnerships and Compliance

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS Education

Master's Degree or equivalent is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Experience

Lived experience of Secwépemc and Indigenous worldviews, cultures, and values

Demonstrated work experience with Indigenous communities

Experience and knowledge in conducting community-engaged research in support of Indigenous communities, Elders and partners through participation in research and/or research implementation

Knowledge of Indigenous approaches to research, including Indigenous research methodologies

Knowledge/Skills

Comprehensive knowledge of Indigenous approaches to research, including Indigenous research methodologies

Familiarity with the Secwépemc language, with competency considered a valuable asset

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Professional confidence and practical communication skills for engaging participants and communities

Advanced interpersonal skills, demonstrating the ability to listen effectively and sensitively to a diverse range of people and groups

Strong organizational and project management skills

Capacity to work on confidential and sensitive matters with tact and discretion

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team setting

Lived experience and in-depth knowledge of working with Secwépemc communities

Experience working in a post-secondary education institution

Familiarity with Secwépemc/Indigenous challenges and opportunities

Demonstrated understanding of Canada's history of colonialism, residential schools, and racism

Strategic thinking ability coupled with excellent communication skills

Proven track record of collaborative work with individuals and organizations

Ability to build authentic connections, and possession of energy, enthusiasm and readiness to laugh

Pay Band

$108,131.00 - $121,319.00 ( Admin Pay Band CH )

Location

Kamloops, BC CA (Primary)

# of Hires Needed

1

Organizational Unit

Thompson Rivers University -> Office of Vice President, Research

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment:

Thompson Rivers University is strongly committed to hiring based on merit with a focus on fostering diversity of thought within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our staff, our faculty and its scholarship including, but not limited to, women, Indigenous, Black and People of Colour, persons with disabilities and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, however applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

NOTE: To learn more about Thompson Rivers University or living in Kamloops or Williams Lake please visit our Careers website. External Candidates invited to interview will be required to bring a copy of their transcripts to the interview.