SUMMARY
The Dietitian will provide nutrition services and education to support the health and wellness of individuals and families in Keewaytinook Okimakanak (KO) communities. This position will focus on developing, implementing, and evaluating culturally relevant nutrition programs and services, with a strong emphasis on chronic disease prevention (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), maternal and child health, and community wellness.
The Dietitian will work under the direction of the KO HCC Manager (or designate) and collaborate with Home and Community Care, Nursing,and other KO health programs. The role includes direct client counselling, group education, program planning, and coordination with community leadership, local health staff, and external partners. This position requires flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to deliver services in remote and northern First Nations communities, many of which are only accessible by air transportation (some seasonal road access).
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Under the direction of the KO HCC Nurse Manager (or designate), the Dietitian will be responsible for:
- Providing individualized nutrition counselling and assessments to clients (including those living with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or other conditions).
- Supporting meal planning, food preparation skills, and grocery education tailored to remote/northern communities.
- Delivering community-based nutrition education programs, workshops, and presentations for children, families, Elders, and health staff.
- Collaborating with KO Nursing, Home and Community Care, and Mental Health teams to support integrated care plans for clients. Working alongside the Diabetes Nurse Educator to create comprehensive nutrition education.
- Supporting maternal and child health through prenatal, infant, and early childhood nutrition education.
- Developing culturally relevant nutrition resources and materials that incorporate First Nations values, culture, and traditional foods.
- Assisting in program planning, implementation, and evaluation of nutrition and wellness initiatives.
- Participating in community events, health fairs, and land-based programming to promote nutrition and wellness.
- Providing guidance on food services for community programs (e.g., school meals, Elders’ programs, and community gatherings).
- Monitoring and reporting on program activities, maintaining accurate client and program records.
- Maintaining confidentiality and practicing in accordance with professional standards.
- Travelling to KO communities to provide in-person services, with virtual services when travel is not possible.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition or Dietetics from an accredited university and completion of an accredited dietetic internship.
- Current registration and membership in good standing with the College of Dietitians of Ontario (or eligibility for registration).
- Experience in community nutrition, clinical dietetics, or public health nutrition, preferably within Indigenous or northern communities.
- Knowledge of chronic disease prevention and management, with experience in diabetes education considered an asset.
- Strong understanding of the unique challenges of food security and nutrition in northern/remote First Nations communities.
- Knowledge of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and traditional food practices.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, community leadership, and health professionals.
- Strong communication skills (written, verbal, and presentation).
- Ability to develop culturally appropriate health education materials.
- Ability to work independently, multi-task, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Willingness to travel to remote KO communities as required.
- Satisfactory Criminal Records Search and Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Ability to speak or understand a First Nations language is considered an asset.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
Applicants interested in this position are welcome to submit their resume and cover letter to apply on-line at KO website: www.kochiefs.ca under “Apply”.
