Receptionist – External Employment Opportunity

Join the Hulitan Family! 

Hulitan Family and Community Services Society is a unique Indigenous non-profit located in the Westshore Community of Southern Vancouver Island. Our mission is to preserve, unify and advocate for Indigenous families by supporting healing and fostering resilience through culturally rooted programs, services, and collaboration with community partners. Hulitan empowers Indigenous families and future generations, walking alongside them and using the cultural principles of Respect, Connectedness, Humility, and Integrity. 

We are excited to be opening an Early Years Centre September 2024 that will include an Aboriginal HeadStart with 48 childcare spaces for Indigenous children, a before and after school care, our Journeys of the Heart Program, and Family Support Program. 

 

Position Description 

We are seeking a Receptionist for our Early Years Centre that includes an Aboriginal HeadStart Childcare Program, Family Support Program, and Journeys of the Heart Program. Practicing with a trauma informed lens the receptionist will greet and welcome families into the space and work collaboratively with program staff and manager to create an inclusive, culturally grounded space where people feel a sense of belonging. 

 

Responsibilities 

  • Welcome guests to the Centre and offer food and beverages to those waiting.
  • Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all children and families entering the Centre by asking them to sign in and knowing who is in the building in case of emergency. 
  • Support the health, safety, and wellbeing of staff by participating in Hulitan’s Health and Safety Committee, maintaining health and safety supplies, working collaboratively to complete health and safety drills, being aware of staff schedules and being the check-in point when staff are on outreach, or away from the office. 
  • Track inventory of office supplies and order supplies when needed. 
  • Answer the phone and direct calls, provide information to community members calling the Centre. 
  • Coordinate service providers such as landscaping and building maintenance when needed.
  • Make copies and print materials as needed by staff. 
  • Work collaboratively with other staff members, Elders, educators, and support staff, to create a cohesive and supportive team environment that prioritizes the needs and interests of the children and families we serve. 
  • Engage in ongoing professional development opportunities to build on knowledge and skills in early childhood education, Indigenous cultures, trauma-informed care, and other relevant areas.
  • Other general office tasks as needed. 

 

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES: 

The successful candidate will possess experience that will satisfy all or most of the following:  

  • Demonstrate a knowledge of which traditional territories that you will be practicing on, respect for Indigenous cultures, and a willingness to learn. 
  • Commitment to continual work and reflection on decolonizing practice in work with children and families and speak to the actions you are taking (or will be taking as you engage in learning).
  • Ability to work collaboratively and build positive relationships and communication with children, peers, families, and community members. 
  • Knowledge of trauma informed practice and values that align with creating an inclusive environment (or commitment to learn). 
  • An awareness and understanding of community resources available to families in Southern Vancouver Island. 
  • Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office and general computer and office technology skills.
  • Strong relationship building, problem solving, and collaborative skills. 
  • Sound judgment, strong written and oral communication skills, and the ability to maintain confidentiality while conveying information. 
  • Ability to work with values that align with creating an inclusive and culturally responsive environment. 

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

The successful candidate will possess education and experience that will satisfy all the following:

  • Two years relevant experience in an office coordinator/reception position or equivalent experience/skills transfer. 
  • Experience working with Indigenous children and families a strong asset. 
  • A current and valid first aid certificate with infant and child CPR (or be willing to obtain one as part of the training before commencing work). 
  • Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening clearance (or willingness to obtain).
  • Provide record of immunization status. 

 

What We Give in Return: 

We recognize the importance of family and wellness while doing this challenging work. Staff at Hulitan have 15 vacation days yearly, 12 sick days yearly, and an additional 6 sick days for those with children under the age of 12. In addition, you have access to support from our resident Elder and our Cultural Connections Coordinator and frequent opportunity for ongoing training. A comprehensive benefits package and RRSP contribution of 4% of your annual salary are provided for all permanent staff working 21 hours per week or more. Hulitan Early Years staff receive reflective supervision and frequent team and peer check-ins. We offer a supportive collaborative environment that fosters personal growth, and lasting connections. 

Pursuant to Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of Indigenous Ancestry 

 

Please submit your resume and cover letter attention to: 

Sarah McDonald, Manager of Early Years 

Email: smcdonald@hulitan.ca 

Only those selected for interviews will be contacted. 

Closing date is June 14th, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. 

Starting wage is $22.00 per hour.