Speech & Language Assistant

Position Summary

Seabird Island is committed to fostering healthy development in children and youth through culturally informed early intervention. We are seeking a Speech and Language Assistant to support speech-language services that promote communication, cognitive development, and well-being for children in our community.

Under the direct supervision of the Speech and Language Pathologist, the Speech and Language Assistant provides clinical and administrative support in the delivery of speech and language programs. This includes implementing therapy plans, preparing materials, documenting progress, and supporting individual and group intervention sessions. This role supports culturally safe, child-centered approaches aligned with the developmental goals of the Early Childhood Education team.

What You'll Do

Program & Clinical Support

•  Implement therapy activities based on individualized service plans developed by the Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP).
  
• Deliver speech and language support to children in one-on-one or small group settings.
  
• Prepare session materials and visual supports for both clinic-based and home program use.
  
• Observe and document each child’s performance and participation during interventions.
  
• Support the SLP in conducting screenings and assessments as directed.
  
• Assist with program evaluation, data collection, and progress tracking.

Administrative Operational Support

•  Help organize and maintain therapy tools, resources, and program materials.
  
• Schedule appointments and maintain clear records of service delivery and attendance.
  
• Perform clerical duties such as chart preparation, filing, and updating documentation.
  
• Ensure safety precautions are followed in all service settings, including classrooms and homes.
  
• Maintain equipment, supplies, and technology used in speech-language services.

Community Engagement

•  Participate in First Nations community activities and early childhood development initiatives.
  
• Assist with in-service training sessions and educational workshops when needed.
  
• Attend team meetings and professional development opportunities to support program goals.

Other Duties

• Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values. 

Working / Special Conditions

• Initial and ongoing employment is subject to submission of a clear Criminal Record Review Program Check to ensure the safety and trust of the communities we serve. This check will be conducted every five years.
• Initial and ongoing commitment to the values and guidelines of Sq'éwqel (Seabird Island Band), including our policies, procedures, standards of practice, and laws, is essential. This commitment supports our collective work, the community, and the responsibilities of this role.
• Must possess a valid class 5 driver's license and have access to safe and reliable transportation, insured for community-based use, to effectively engage with and support families in our community and the communities we serve.
  
• Flexibility in working hours may be required, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the needs and schedules of clients and community needs. Employees will be given as much notice as possible to any changes in schedule.

What You Bring

• A diploma in Speech and Language Assistant, Communication Disorders Assistant, or related post-secondary training is required or must be actively pursuing. We also recognize and value cultural knowledge and experience gained through other forms of education and training, including teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
  
• 1–2 years of experience supporting children in educational or clinical settings.
  
• Demonstrated ability to follow structured plans while adapting to individual child needs.
  
• Experience working in early childhood development programs or multidisciplinary teams.
  
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, especially with young children and families.

Preferred:

•  Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
  
• Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.
  
• Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Island’s culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.
  
• Ability to respond quickly and professionally to community or colleague needs and inquiries.

Cultural Competency:

• Understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
• Experience working within Indigenous communities and applying culturally safe practices.
  
• Understanding of intergenerational trauma and its impacts on Indigenous peoples and communities. 

How to Apply 

• Have a question about this role before you apply? Email careers@seabirdisland.ca.
• Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter sharing how your experience aligns with this role.

Pre-Employment Screening 

Seabird Island is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions that Indigenous people bring to our team. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous people. Pursuant to S. 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit heritage. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in Canada; however, we are not able to sponsor visas.

Employment is conditional upon completing pre-employment screening to ensure a safe and secure work environment in which students, staff, members, families, community, as well as resources, and assets are protected. All background checks, reference checks and criminal record checks are performed in accordance with Seabird Island Human Resources Policy Manual, protecting the integrity and confidentiality of information gathered during the evaluation.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.