News

Job Opportunity | HR Administrator

Employment Opportunity

FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATOR

Position Title:  HR Administrator
Department: Administration
Salary: $  55, 000 - $ 65, 000 per annum
Term: Full-time/Permanent
Location:  Liverpool, Queens County Nova Scotia
Works with all communities and locations, as required: Hammonds Plains, Yarmouth, Shelburne, Medway,
Wildcat, Ponhook, Liverpool, and Gold River
Estimated Start Date October 2025

Wasoqopa’q First Nation (formerly Acadia First Nation) is governed as a custom band under the provisions of the Indian Act with established bylaws, policies and procedures. The First Nation's electoral system constitutes an election once every five (5) years with positions for one Chief and eight (8) councillors. Chief and Council elect, are the governing body responsible for making decisions for the overall health and well-being of communities, Elders, youth and families.

Wasoqopa’q First Nation is unique in its geographical composition, spread throughout the Southwestern regions of Nova Scotia spanning five counties from Yarmouth to Halifax, encompassing six (6) reserves - Yarmouth, Ponhook, Medway, Wildcat, Gold River, and Hammonds Plains, in both rural and urban settings. To support administration and business operations, Wasoqopa’q First Nation, with supporting staff, provides programs and services within two (2) Health Centres, a Youth Centre, two (2) Community Centres, six (6) administration offices, and six (6) business establishments, including economic development, education, employment, fishing, forestry, health, housing & maintenance, human resources, and social.

POSITION OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVE

WFN is currently recruiting for a Human Resources (HR) Administrator, reporting to the Director of Human Resources, responsible for supporting the operations of Wasoqopa’q First Nation (WFN) Human Resources, including administrative support in recruitment, onboarding, maintaining internal databases and records, occupational health and safety and other related human resources activities, in accordance with applicable legislative standards and aligned with the WFN HR Strategic Plan and Strategy, and Mi’kmaw cultural values and guiding principles.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES

HR Administration

  • Supports the Director with overall operations of Wasoqopa’q First Nation Human Resources and Occupational Health and Safety
  • Aligns all WFN human resource acitivities with Mi’kmaw cultural values and guiding principles
  • Maintains a high degree of professionalism, integrity and confidentiality, through intereactions and acces to emplyoee information
  • Develops, implements and reports on an annual workplan in HR administration, in accordance with the HR Strategic Plan, annual HR Strategy and HR Administrator job description
  • Adheres to and supports the execution of the HR Strategic Plan and annual HR Strategy that aligns with the WFN Strategic Plan
  • Maintains the HR Employee Database across administration and business operations, with monthly reports and updates provided to the Director
  • Participates in weekly team meetings, quarterly check-ins to align HR efforts in supporting Wasoqopa’q First Nation priorities and goals
  • Aligns all HR administration activities in compliance with all applicable legal standards
  • Participates and supports the HR Committee, including organization of meetings, materials and minutes
  • Supports the management of the HR filing system in administration and business operations, both electronically and in some paper format, in compliance with all applicable legal standards
  • Conducts updates to HR personnel files on a weekly basis, and or as needed, maintaining accurate and up to date records at all times
  • Champion of the WFN Human Resources SharePoint site, organizing, uploading and maintaining up to date content for administration and business operations
  • Supports the development and execution of WFN employee events, activities and training e.g. HR professional development days, staff meetings and or cultural events and activities

Recruitment & Staffing

  • Monitors and maintains the recruitment email, including candidate communications, organizing and gathering resumes per each requirement activity, addressing inquiries and ensuring that candidates are meeting recruitment deadlines
  • In collaboration with the Payroll Administrator, establishes new employees in the HR and Payroll System, establishing an employee profile and uploading paperwork
  • Provides administrative support for WFN Human Resources recruitment processes, including job postings, interview boards and reference checks, as needed
  • Assists the Director with new employee onboarding, including handbooks, orientation and required paperwork, as needed

Occupational Health & Safety

  • Organizes, coordinates and supports the implementation of the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee (JOHSC), including organizing meetings, scheduling workplace inspections and other JOHSC activities, and maintaining all JOHSC documentation and records
  • Maintains the WFN Health and Safety System, inlcuding the WFN Health and Safety database, set-up and maintenance of the Complete Safety Training Portal and adherance to the WFN Health and Safety Plan
  • Plans and coordinates occupational health and safety training, both virtually and in person, across administration and business operations (e.g. First Aid and CPR, WHMIS)
  • Establishes and maintains a wide range of contacts, and relationships with WFN employees, Mi’kmaw and or Indigenous organizations and service providers
  • Adheres to all Wasoqopa’q First Nation (WFN) Policies, Procedures and administrative processes, as required
  • Works in a team environment, including supporting other duties, training and activities related to the operational needs of Wasoqopa’q First Nation Human Resources and the position, as required

QUALIFICATIONS

  • WFN Band Member, First Nation or Indigenous
  • Degree or Diploma in Human Resources, Business Administration or related field and or combination of education and work experience
  • Knowledge of Mi’kmaq and or Indigenous Culture & History
  • Knowledge and experience working in a Mi’kmaw and or Indigenous communities is required
  • Knowledge of Provincial and Federal Employment Standards and other human resources legislation
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite of software (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook and SharePoint) is required
  • First Aid & CPR, WHMIS and OH&S Certification is considered an asset
  • Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Checks are required upon hiring, Child Abuse Registry Check to be completed every two years

REQUIRED ABILITIES, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

  • Demonstrated knowledge and cultural sensitivity, in understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds and lifestyles
  • Self-motivated, ability to work unsupervised with a high level of productivity and accuracy
  • Strong work ethic and ability to work in an environment requiring a high degree of professionalism, discretion and confidentiality
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal and employee relations skills
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to come up with creative solutions
  • Proven ability to multi-task, set priorities based on competing demands
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Excellent communication skills, both orally and written
  • Thrives in a high-paced and collaborative environment
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • A commitment to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Hours of work are expected to occur Monday to Thursday 8:00am to 5:00pm daily, with occasional evenings, dependant on events and activities
  • A great deal of time is spent working indoors in a well maintained, heated/ventilated environment with modern and up-to-date equipment
  • Long periods of work with office equipment and computer can occur
  • There are instances of moving objects and lifting equipment and or boxes up to 20 lb
  • Travel to other offices and or businesses requires driving for significant periods of time
  • A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle for transportation is required

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Submit Cover Letter and Resume to **Please quote HRADMINISTRATOR# on your cover letter and indicate your salary expectations for this position.

WFN appreciates the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. WFN does not assume candidate expenses related to this recruitment process.

In accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preference Policy of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, if all qualifications are equal, preference will be given to persons of Aboriginal ancestry and if a Wasoqopa’q First Nation Band member.

Deadline to Apply: September 17, 2025

Wasoqopa’q First Nation is committed to fostering a safe workplace that provides an equitable, diverse and inclusive environment, where employees are treated professionally and with dignity and respect. We value the contributions that each person brings, and are committed to ensuring equal opportunity and participation as part of the WFN team.

We are a community. We make a difference.

              Download Here(258 KB)

Job Opportunity | Bingo Hall Attendant/Kitchen Help

NOW HIRING - AFN Entertainment Centre - Bingo Hall Attendant/Kitchen Help

2 Vacancies - Causal, Part Time, On Call, Weekend, Day, Evening

16+ hours per week

Position Description:

  • To receive and record payment from customers
  • To maintain a secure and comfortable environment for staff and customers
  • To guard against theft and vandalism
  • Promote positive guest relations through prompt, courteous and efficient service
  • Fast paced environment

Duties:

  • Accurately process sales transactions in a timely manner
  • Verify issued and returned bingo paper used for sales
  • Responsible for accurately balancing cash and paper for each bingo session
  • Provide outstanding customer service
  • Interacts with all guests and team members in a professional and courteous manner
  • Account for shortages and overages in cash at the end of each shift
  • Perform security checks as required
  • Clean washrooms, equipment, shelves, floors and surrounding environment and stock shelves
  • Any other duties deemed necessary by the Management, AFN Gaming Commission and/or Chief and Council

Employment Requirements:

  • Must be 19 years of age or older
  • Pleasant personality and excellent customer service skills
  • Willing to work as part of a team
  • Must be bondable
  • Willing to take additional training as deemed necessary and provided by AFN
  • Minimum of grade 10 or equivalent
  • Previous guest service and sales experience preferred
  • Kitchen experience would be an asset

Salary: $17.20 per hour                               Start Date: ASAP

HOW TO APPLY:

In person:  AFN Entertainment Centre

10552 Highway 3, Yarmouth, NS B5A 5J7

By Fax: (902)742-5503

By Email:        Deadline: September 5, 2025.

 Download PDF(135 KB)

WFN Annual General Meeting 2025

Notice in Regard to Provincewide Burn Ban

Under the Direction of Wasoqopa'q First Nation Chief and Council with consultation from Wasoqopa'q First Nation EMO

To All Community Members Living On or Anyone Accessing Wasoqopa'q Lands,

Wasoqopa’q First Nation is adhering to provincial guidelines concerning the provincewide burn ban in effect through proclamation under the Forests Act. This is due to heightened wildfire risk resulting from continued hot and dry conditions across the province. We are also adhering to the Travel and activities in woods restrictions so we ask that our community respect the guidance presented by the province and DNR. We must all do our part to protect our communities and the surrounding areas from Wildland Urban Interface Fires (wildfires which move into urban areas) which can be particular devastating and can cause loss of property or life.

We encourage all community members to stay informed and follow the current fire restrictions in place to help keep everyone safe.

For the most up-to-date information, please visit the official provincial burn ban page:

Burn Ban Proclamation: https://novascotia.ca/natr/forestprotection/wildfire/fire-proclamation_2025-07-30.pdf

News Release from NS DNR: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/07/30/provincewide-burn-ban-effect

Fire Restrictions/BurnSafe: https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/

Summary Offence Ticket Regulations: https://novascotia.ca/just/regulations/regs/sptickets.htm

Travel and activities in woods are restricted: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/08/05/travel-activities-woods-restricted-prevent-wildfires

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Job Opportunity | Cashier - Your Winners World

Employment Opportunity

Cashier

Position Title:  Cashier
Department: Your Winner’s World WFN
Salary: $ 17.20 per hour
Term: Permanent/Part-time/Shift Work Required
Location:  10574 Highway #3, NS B5A 4A8
Estimated Start Date: July 25, 2025

Wasoqopa’q First Nation (formerly Acadia First Nation) is governed as a custom band under the provisions of the Indian Act with established bylaws, policies and procedures. The First Nation's electoral system constitutes an election once every five (5) years with positions for one Chief and eight (8) councillors. Chief and Council elect, are the governing body responsible for making decisions for the overall health and well-being of communities, Elders, youth and families.   

Wasoqopa’q First Nation is unique in its geographical composition, spread throughout the Southwestern regions of Nova Scotia spanning five counties from Yarmouth to Halifax, encompassing six (6) reserves - Yarmouth, Ponhook, Medway, Wildcat, Gold River, and Hammonds Plains, in both rural and urban settings.  To support administration and business operations, Wasoqopa’q First Nation, with supporting staff, provides programs and services within two (2) Health Centres, a Youth Centre, two (2) Community Centres, six (6) administration offices, and six (6) business establishments, including economic development, education, employment, fishing, forestry, health, housing & maintenance, human resources, and social.

Wasoqopa’q First Nation owns and operates the Your Winner’s World facility located in Yarmouth, NS.  The facility, provides a gas station, with fuel and furnace oil, VLT’s for entertainment, drive thru for tobacco and ancillary services, and a store front location for products and services. 

POSITION OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVE

WFN is currently recruiting for  Cashier part-time positions to support the Manager in daily operations.  These positions are responsible for supporting daily operations including greeting customers, and handling transactions, providing a fundamental role in achieving customer satisfaction. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES

  • Greets customers in a courteous, friendly and professional manner within retail operations, including answering phones and addressing customer inquiries (such as products and pricing)
  • Receives and processes all retail payments including credit, debit and cash transactions ensuring to appropriately record prices, department, taxable and non-taxable items
  • Balances and reconciles daily cash ensuring cash equals receipts, responsible for shortages
  • Operates the scanning equipment, including scanning products, and troubleshooting scanning issues
  • Supports the maintenance of inventory, checking for low stock, damaged and expired products; provides updates to shift Supervisor
  • Assists in maintaining the storefront inventory and retail displays including cleanliness, and stocking inventory (lotto, tobacco, coolers, shelves and displays)
  • Maintains the coffee station for customers, including availability of coffee, products and cleanliness during shift
  • Supports the health and safety of customers and employees, to guard against theft, vandalism and fire
  • Conducts the cleaning schedule assigned for retail operations during the shift, including the proper removal and disposal of garbage from containers, conducts bathroom checks, cleaning and stocking products as needed, sweeps and mops floors, cleans parking area and entranceway of debris, snow or ice, adding salt as necessary
  • Adhere to all Wasoqopa’q First Nation (WFN) Policies, Procedures and necessary store procedures, as required
  • Other duties, training and activities related to Cashier position, as required

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma with knowledge and experience with electronic equipment (e.g. cash register, scanners, money counters)
  • 6 months minimum experience of customer service and/or sales experience
  • WHMIS Certification is an asset
  • First Aid & CPR Certification is an asset
  • Occupational Health & Safety Training is an asset
  • Criminal record check upon hiring

REQUIRED ABILITIES, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

  • Strong multitasking skills, ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Excellent mathematical skills and basic computer skills, with a common knowledge of Microsoft suite tools, and Excel
  • Demonstrated effective time management and problem-solving abilities in unique situations and problems while keeping positive attitude
  • Strong ability to work in a team
  • Ability to pay attention to small details and the ability to remember and recall things such as food ingredients
  • Good interpersonal skills, organization ability, and written and verbal communication skills
  • Manual dexterity, ability to skillfully use hands to prepare ingredients to use in cooking, good knife skills
  • A commitment to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Hours of work are expected to occur during regular business operations twenty-four hours per day, seven (7) days a week (Shifts will be provided within this timeline)
  • There may be a requirement for working any shift including mornings, evenings, weekends, and certain holidays, however, majority are midnight shifts
  • There are instances of lifting heavy boxes at least up to 50 lb
  • Standing for an extended period of time
  • A great deal of time is spent working indoors in well maintained, heated/ventilated environment with modern and up-to-date equipment

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Submit Cover Letter and Resume to **Please quote YWW Cashier# on your cover letter and indicate your salary expectations for this position.

WFN appreciates the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.  WFN does not assume candidate expenses related to this recruitment process.

In accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preference Policy of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, if all qualifications are equal, preference will be given to persons of Aboriginal ancestry and if a Wasoqopa’q First Nation Band member.

Deadline to Apply

Open Until Position Is Filled

Wasoqopa’q First Nation is committed to fostering a safe workplace that provides an equitable, diverse and inclusive environment, where employees are treated professionally and with dignity and respect.  We value the contributions that each person brings, and are committed to ensuring equal opportunity and participation as part of the WFN team.

We are a community. We make a difference.

   Download Here(236 KB)

Announcement | New Business Operations - MacPherson's

Wasoqopa'q First Nation is pleased to announce that we have purchased the business operations of MacPherson's located in Liverpool, Queens County. The business operates an appliance & furniture store, hunting & fishing supplies and a variety of other goods. The operation will also continue to lease out the Needs Gas and Convenience store.

MacPherson's has a long history as a successful establishment in Queens and we plan to continue to deliver the same quality service customers have come to know. The operation will continue to be managed by long time employee Tyler Frank, a Wasoqopa'q First Nation member.

Wasoqopa'q has plans to develop the land located behind the business operations which extends to the banks of the Mersey River. These lands will be developed into an outdoor cultural gathering place that is guided by Mi'kmaw traditional teachings.

"After five generations of family ownership, our family is honoured to pass the store on to the First Nations community. It's a meaningful transition for us, knowing the store will continue to serve the community with the same heart and eclectic spirit that's made it special for so many years. We've always believed in offering a little bit of everything, and we're thrilled to see that legacy carried forward. We know the store is in the best of hands and can't wait to see it thrive in this new chapter." - The MacPherson Family

 Download PDF(460 KB)