Position Summary
The Office Manager is responsible for the overall administration, coordination, and efficient operation of the McDowell Lake First Nation Band Office. This role supports Chief and Council in implementing strategic priorities, ensuring effective delivery of programs and services, and maintaining accountability in governance, financial management, and human resources.
The Office Manager works closely with community members, leadership, and external partners while upholding cultural values, traditions, and community protocols. This position plays a key role in supporting the Nation’s growth, self-determination, and long-term community development.
Key Responsibilities
1. Administration & Operations
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the Band Office
- Ensure policies, procedures, and administrative systems are implemented and followed
- Coordinate Band meetings, prepare agendas, and record minutes
- Maintain accurate records, files, and documentation
2. Governance Support
- Provide administrative and strategic support to Chief and Council
- Assist in the development and implementation of Band policies, bylaws, and governance frameworks
- Ensure compliance with federal, provincial, and funding agency requirements
- Promote transparency and accountability in governance processes
3. Financial Oversight
- Assist with budget preparation, monitoring, and reporting
- Ensure financial controls and procedures are followed
- Work collaboratively with finance staff and auditors
- Monitor funding agreements and reporting obligations
4. Human Resources
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of staff
- Ensure HR policies and procedures are consistently applied
- Promote a respectful, culturally safe, and inclusive workplace
- Address employee relations matters in collaboration with leadership
5. Program & Service Coordination
- Oversee delivery of community programs and services
- Monitor program performance and outcomes
- Ensure timely and accurate reporting to funders
- Identify service gaps and recommend improvements
6. Community Engagement
- Act as a liaison between leadership and community members
- Support community meetings, consultations, and communications
- Respond to inquiries and concerns respectfully and in a timely manner
- Encourage community participation and transparency
7. External Relations
- Liaise with government agencies, Indigenous organizations, and partners
- Represent McDowell Lake First Nation in meetings and negotiations as required
- Support proposal writing and funding applications
8. Travel
· Travel required several times a year.
Qualifications & Requirements
· Post-secondary education in Business Administration, Public Administration, Indigenous Studies, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
· Minimum 3–5 years of management or administrative experience, preferably in a First Nation or public sector environment
· Strong understanding of First Nation governance, culture, and community dynamics
· Knowledge of relevant legislation, funding agreements, and reporting requirements
· Financial management and budgeting experience
· Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
· Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
· Complete assigned tasks as needed
· Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Red Lake, ON
· Must hold a valid “G” driver's license
Preferred Assets
· Experience working in remote or fly-in First Nation communities
· Knowledge of Oji-Cree language and cultural practices
· Experience with proposal writing and program funding
Working Conditions
· Office-based in a remote northern community
· Travel may be required (primarily by air)
· Occasional evening or weekend work for community meetings
Core Competencies
· Cultural awareness and respect
· Leadership and team-building
· Integrity and accountability
· Problem-solving and decision-making
· Communication and relationship-building
This position is integral to supporting the vision, governance, and ongoing development of McDowell Lake First Nation. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to community service, cultural respect, and advancing the Nation’s priorities.
Pay: $65,000.00-$70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Application question(s):
- Will you be able to reliably commute from surrounding areas (Balmertown, Cochenour, Madsen, Ear Falls) or relocate to Red Lake, ON (or surrounding areas) for this job?
Licence/Certification:
- Class G Licence (required)
Location:
Work Location: In person
