Mercury Disability Board Community Support Worker – Senior Case Manager – Job Opportunity

Position: Mercury Disability Board Community Support Worker-Senior Case Manager (CSW-SCM); part-time, temporary project contract (6 months), with the possibility of extension to full-time depending on securing further funding, which is currently being sought.

Location: Remote:  may work from home, but must travel to Whitedog Independent Nations regularly to provide in-person support. When working remotely, the worker must provide their own work space and tools of the job, including a computer, internet connection, and phone.

Hours of work: Part-time; some evening and weekend hours may be required, as well as travel to Whitedog, and to meetings in Kenora and Winnipeg as required.

Salary: Commensurate with experience.

Reports to: Chief and Council, or their designate.

Job Description:

The Mercury Disability Board (MDB) provides mercury disability benefits to members of Whitedog Independent Nations and Grassy Narrows First Nation who show signs and symptoms of mercury poisoning. A reformed assessment process is now being implemented, and while it is fairer than before, it is lengthy and complicated. WIN is seeking a Community Support Worker – Senior Case Manager with professional case work experience to work alongside the Community Support Worker and support members applying for MDB benefits, maximize their chances of a fair outcome, and improve their experience throughout the application and appeal process.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Take instruction from Chief and Council or their designate, and faithfully fulfil directions and duties as assigned.
  • Work alongside and collaborate with the Community Support Worker.
  • Identify individuals in the community who may be eligible to make a claim, in accordance with the MDB assessment process.
  • Supply application forms and support individuals with form filling and delivery.
  • Seek the consent of the claimant to support them throughout their interaction with the MDB, and where consent is given: Support claimants in obtaining relevant material for their claims, such as biomarker data and letters from primary care providers, specialists, friends, family, and colleagues.
  • Help claimants understand the assessment process and make informed choices about their participation based on their own interests.
  • Advocate for the claimant with the MDB when requested.
  • Help claimants independently understand and interpret MDB decisions.
  • Support claimants in deciding whether to seek an appeal or review, and assist them through those processes, including advocating with the MDB and connecting them with professional supports such as lawyers and independent medical professionals.
  • Support travel arrangements and travel funding for individuals travelling for appointments related to MDB claims or reviews.
  • Keep secure, detailed notes, forms, and referral records.
  • Assess applicants for peripheral needs (e.g., food security) and recommend additional supports where appropriate.
  • Coordinate with the MDB Chair and MDB on logistical matters, including locating and contacting applicants if needed.
  • Assist in developing and distributing community information on the MDB, including letters, pamphlets, and posters.
  • Review supporting documentation with applicants prior to submission.
  • Liaise with health and community organizations, and report regularly to Chief and Council or their designate.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • Commitment to working towards the community vision of a just and accessible MDB.
  • Proven case work and advocacy skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, including comfort speaking at meetings and community gatherings, giving short presentations, and writing letters, updates, posters, and fliers.
  • Knowledge of benefits systems, health organizations, government departments, and community organizations.
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work, or equivalent experience, an asset.
  • Experience working with First Nations people and communities.
  • Knowledge of Anishinaabemowin/Ojibwe language an asset.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times and a high degree of ethics.
  • Ability to provide referrals to professional services such as legal and therapeutic supports.
  • Strong organizational, time-management, and problem-solving skills; ability to work under tight deadlines.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, both taking direction and showing initiative.
  • Ability to travel, including to Whitedog Independent Nations and to meetings in Kenora and Winnipeg.
  • Computer literacy, including email, word processing (e.g., Microsoft Word), scanning, and video conferencing technology.

Interested candidates are required to apply in writing by email to hlelash@gmail.com copying Chief and Council:

Deadline to apply: July 31, 2026

Miigwetch to those that apply, however only selected candidates will be contacted.