Occupational Therapist

Career Opportunity

Occupational Therapist

(Full-time)

Closing:

August 19, 2026

Anticipated Start Date:

As soon as possible

Salary Range:

$80,000 Annually

(Based on Qualifications and Experience)

General Description

The Sipekne’katik Family Well Being department is seeking full time, permanent position for an Occupational Therapist. This position will be a key part of family centered circle of care and work to their full scope of practice, providing supports to families referred to the Family Well Being program.

An Occupational Therapist works with individuals, particularly children and families, to support their ability to participate in meaningful daily activities. These activities may include self-care, play, school tasks, social interaction, and community involvement.

The Occupational Therapist assesses physical, cognitive, sensory, emotional, and environmental factors that may impact functioning, and develops individualized, evidence-based intervention plans. The role is collaborative and often involves working closely with families, educators, and interdisciplinary teams to promote overall well-being and independence.

Responsibilities

Direct Client Care & Family Support 70%

• Providing support for families both in home and pre-kindergarten
• Educate, coach, and empower families with self-management strategies.
• Perform, evaluate, and interpret cognitive assessments and consult with key stakeholders.
• Conduct fine/gross motor, developmental, and sensory assessments (0–18 years) and collaborate with families, caregivers, and teachers to implement intervention plans.
• Provide individualized treatment plans to develop, maintain, or augment function using evidence-based treatment modalities.

Collaboration, Advocacy & Cultural Practice 20%

• Knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture, values, and challenges that Mi’kmaw face in Nova Scotia, acting with respect and humility toward the people and culture of Sipekne’katik.
• Collaborate and consult with allied health professionals, physicians, and other health care providers to promote integrated and coordinated care.
• Advocate for clients and complete funding requests via Nova Scotia Disability Support Program, Jordan’s Principle, NIHB, and/or third-party organizations
• Write letters of support and recommendation for pediatric assistive devices and submit funding applications.

Documentation & Administrative Responsibilities 10%

• Exercise care and caution in protecting and maintaining confidential client records.
• Complete client charts and reports in a timely fashion and maintain client records.
• Complete reports after each community visit (e.g., number of community members seen, planning/clinical meetings, meetings with leadership)

Qualifications and Experience/Skills

• Degree in Occupational Therapy
• Membership in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapist in Nova Scotia
• Minimum two years’ experience as a registered OT
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Professional and calm demeaner with ability to respect the confidentiality of others.
• Ability to lead by example in maintaining a positive attitude and friendly demeanor.
• Knowledgeable and familiar with the Community of Sipekne’katik.
• Previous experience working with First Nation children, families, and communities.
• Some travel will be required, needs to possess a valid driver’s license and reliable insured vehicle.
• Strong problem solving, decision-making and time management skills.
• Demonstrates clinical reasoning, excellent assessment, and therapeutic skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and general office equipment
• Criminal, vulnerable sector and child abuse record checks are required.
• Must be in good standing with child welfare for at least five years.

Working Conditions

• 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm with a one-hour unpaid lunch and two 15-minute breaks.

Benefits

This position comes with a variety of benefits including Sick, Personal and Vacation Leave, Health, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance, an Employee & Family Assistance Program and employer matched Pension Plan. 

Please apply with a resume, cover letter and criminal records check to:

Human Resources Department

Email employmentapplication@sipeknekatik.ca

Mail/drop off:  522 Church Street, Indian Brook, NS B0N 2H0

We are an equal opportunity employer; however, qualified Aboriginal applicants will be given priority in accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preference Policy of the Canadian Human Rights Commission. The Band will not assume any expenses related to any job application process, included but not limited to travel, relocation, and application development.  Please note certain positions come with mandatory employee benefits.

 Only those applicants who qualify for an interview will be contacted.