Programmer, Indigenous Culture (Seasonal)

Fort William Historical Park (FWHP) is one of the largest living history attractions in North America. The park provides cultural, heritage, entertainment and educational experiences for residents and visitors to Northwestern Ontario. Staff in period clothing help tell the story of the peoples who lived and worked in the area in the year 1815. By utilizing story-telling techniques, demonstrating traditional skills, and sharing knowledge from the time-period guest are encouraged to step back into the past. The Programmer, Indigenous Culture will assist the Indigenous Heritage Program Coordinator in sharing the story of the Anishinaabe people of the Great Lakes Region by developing and presenting educational programming to schools, tourists, and other groups.

In the spirit of reconciliation, FWHP is committed to building an inclusive, and diverse workforce representative of our community. We want to be an employer of choice and encourage Indigenous candidates to apply to ensure their voices are heard and their stories are told from their own perspectives. We work hard to be an inclusive, respectful, and culturally open and safe workplace for members of the Indigenous community. Traditional knowledge is an important part of the workplace and is reflected in the ongoing cultural learning opportunities available to our staff.

FWHP celebrates, respects and honours the culture, heritage, history, and past and present contributions of Indigenous Peoples. As one of Ontario's significant heritage and culture attractions, FWHP aims to represent Indigenous Peoples, their cultures and traditions at the highest standard. The Park is committed to continually improving our facilities and services to provide visitors with outstanding Indigenous cultural programming.

As Fort William' provides a 24/7 operation, you may be required to attend off-hour programs and work on holidays and weekends.

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.

We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

Visit the OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.

We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In this role, you will:

• Provide assistance in the research, development, training and implementation of Indigenous heritage programs and activities;
• Monitor and evaluate historical interpretations, dramas, tours, special events, education and outreach programs;
• Portray a role in traditional and historic-inspired clothing and participate in historical dramatizations, festivals and artisan demonstrations;
• Conduct research to ensure accuracy in the depiction of programs;
• Provide technical direction to students, and provide information to staff, stakeholders and community interest groups.

How do I qualify?

Mandatory

You possess a Class G Ontario Driver's License

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• You have knowledge of or the desire to learn about storytelling, living history interpretation, drama and education methodologies and applications
• You have knowledge of Indigenous culture, history and perspective
• You have knowledge of or the desire to learn about natural history, period hunting, fishing and trapping techniques, as well as fabrication, construction, and esthetic techniques pertaining to relevant Indigenous material culture
• You have the desire to teach and share Indigenous perspectives and world views
• You have the desire to share advice on cultural program development, and participate in historical programming

Communication, Public Speaking and Interpersonal Skills:

• You can effectively share your knowledge and skills with others
• You have written or verbal skills necessary to share program content and convey key program information
• You have knowledge of or the desire to learn traditional harvesting practices such as birch bark, spruce root, sphagnum moss and more

Group Leadership and Teamwork Skills:

• You can provide guidance and mentorship to staff and volunteers, and respond to customer service related issues
• You can work effectively in a team environment

Analytical, Problem Solving and Research Skills:

• You can conduct research to ensure accuracy in the depiction of programs
• You can develop Indigenous cultural programs specific to audience needs