Sipekne'katik·Cooks Brook, Nova Scotia
The Occupational Therapist will provide direct client care and family support, including conducting developmental assessments and creating individualized intervention plans. The role also involves collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, advocating for client funding, and maintaining accurate clinical documentation.
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.
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)
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.
00 am to 4:00 pm with a one-hour unpaid lunch and two 15-minute breaks.
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.
Candidates must hold a degree in Occupational Therapy and be in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists in Nova Scotia. A minimum of two years of experience and a valid driver's license with a reliable vehicle are required.
Market context
Demand for allied-health roles such as medical laboratory technologists in Nova Scotia is typically steady because hospitals and diagnostic services rely on timely testing across shift schedules, including weekends and holidays. Competition often centers on licensure status, graduation from an approved program, and readiness for shiftwork, while benefits like health, dental, travel, disability, and life insurance can make offers more attractive. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your NSRMLS or CSMLS eligibility before applying.
