Employment

We are committed to helping individuals find meaningful employment and contribute to the economic growth and prosperity of our Community.

The Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini job portal provides a variety of job opportunities in Bancroft and North Hastings, including full-time, part-time, temporary, and seasonal positions. The site offers detailed job listings with descriptions of responsibilities, qualifications, and sometimes salary and benefits. It emphasizes the need for greater flexibility in part-time roles and the unique opportunities presented by temporary and seasonal jobs. The platform also provides updates on new job listings and encourages feedback from users to improve the site and support community employment.

For more information, visit https://jobs.kijichomanito.com/.

KMM explores the barriers for Algonquins in sustainable construction and transportation trades.

This research identifies significant barriers faced by the Algonquin community in accessing sustainable construction and transportation trades. It highlights educational disparities, financial constraints, and systemic discrimination as major obstacles to career advancement for Indigenous individuals. Statistics show that only 18% of Indigenous people aged 25 to 64 possess a university degree or certificate, while only 10% complete post-secondary education, compared to 28% of non-Indigenous students.

Financial barriers are particularly pronounced, with 25% of Indigenous households living below the poverty line, making it difficult for individuals to afford training programs. This challenge is compounded for off-reserve communities like Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini, where the lack of official recognition and land rights limits access to economic opportunities and resources.

The research emphasizes the importance of mentorship programs, as advocated by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and calls for investments in community-driven training initiatives. Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini has successfully implemented programs such as a Non-Loggers Chain Saw Certification, providing tuition-free training and necessary equipment to participants. These efforts have shown measurable outcomes in participant retention and employment placement in sustainable trades.

Mental health challenges also impede Indigenous participation in apprenticeships and career advancement. Discrimination in the workforce and traditional training settings further exacerbates these issues. The research advocates for community-based healing programs and inclusive workplaces to support Indigenous individuals.

Transportation and housing challenges are significant in rural and remote communities, with a high percentage of households in core housing need. The research highlights initiatives like the Wàwàtesì project, which integrates traditional stewardship values with modern green technologies to improve infrastructure and promote sustainable tourism.

Finally, the research underscores the need for targeted government investments in green infrastructure and sustainable industries. By aligning with Canada’s Sustainable Job Plan and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), these initiatives aim to empower Indigenous communities, ensuring self-determination and equitable access to education and employment opportunities in the green sector.

The potential for work-integrated sustainable job programs centred upon Home Renovations and Retrofits.

Our research paper, ‘Home Renovations and Retrofits’, part of the Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini Research Series, examines the critical intersections between green building initiatives, sustainable job creation, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions within the framework of Canada’s Net-Zero Emissions Act. The study emphasizes the importance of Indigenous leadership and self-determination in shaping sustainable solutions, particularly in rural and remote communities on Algonquin territories.

The research draws on data from consultations with over 20 agencies in Eastern Ontario, including municipalities, Indigenous organizations, and educational institutions. The findings highlight the significant challenges faced by aging homeowners, especially in rural areas, where a large percentage of the housing stock is over 50 years old and in need of major repairs. The financial burden on homeowners is exacerbated by high heating costs, rising property taxes, and limited access to skilled tradespeople.

A key focus of the research is the potential for work-integrated sustainable job programs in green building practices, such as insulation installation, HVAC system upgrades, and renewable energy integration. These programs aim to reskill workers and create a pool of talent equipped to meet the specific needs of home retrofits, thereby addressing the skills gap and promoting community engagement and reconciliation.

The study also explores the economic and environmental benefits of low-cost and subsidized renovations, particularly for equity-deserving populations. By investing in energy-efficient upgrades, such as improved insulation and energy-efficient appliances, significant GHG emissions reductions can be achieved, aligning with Canada’s net-zero targets. The research underscores the need for targeted funding and technical support for green renovations that align with Algonquin values of sustainability and harmony with nature.

In addition to the environmental and economic aspects, the research highlights the importance of green building practices in promoting community well-being and supporting economic growth through tourism. Clean and energy-efficient buildings are essential for creating safe, healthy, and welcoming communities that attract both tourists and residents.

Our research concludes with recommendations for collaborative measures to support sustainable development and just transitions in the green building sector. These include implementing energy-efficient building standards tailored to Algonquin communities, developing specialized training programs for tradespeople, and providing financial incentives for energy-efficient home renovations. By prioritizing Indigenous leadership and self-determination, Canada can forge a path towards inclusive, environmentally responsible, and economically resilient housing solutions on Algonquin territories.

Exploring the possible benefits of Solar-Powered Heat Pump Systems in community and residential retrofit projects.

‘Solar-Powered Heat Pump Systems,’ part of our research series at Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini, explores the feasibility and benefits of integrating solar heat pump systems into community and residential building retrofits. It underscores the importance of this technology in reducing energy consumption, lowering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and addressing the high costs of heating and energy inefficiencies, particularly in rural and remote communities.

Our research draws on data from various sources, including Canada’s Green Building Strategy, the Rural Ontario Foresight Papers, and Social Housing Framework White Papers, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to meet Canada’s climate goals, as outlined in the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act. We emphasize the role of solar heat pumps in achieving a significant reduction in GHG emissions, as residential buildings contribute 13% of Canada’s total emissions.

Consultations with various stakeholders, including engineers, policy developers, and regional organizations, revealed the challenges and opportunities associated with solar heat pump adoption. These challenges include infrastructure vulnerabilities, skills shortages, and the high cost of retrofitting buildings in remote areas. However, the potential benefits, such as job creation, economic resilience, and reduced heating costs, are substantial. We identify solar heat pumps as a cost-effective alternative to traditional heating methods, with the added advantage of long-term energy savings and reduced environmental impact.

This research advocates for continued investigation, collaboration, and policy support to fully realize the potential of solar heat pumps in advancing sustainable building practices and fostering economic growth in the green energy sector. We also emphasize the importance of addressing the specific needs of rural and remote communities, where energy supply disruptions and infrastructure challenges are more pronounced. Our findings conclude that solar heat pump installations could play a crucial role in achieving energy efficiency goals and improving living conditions for equity-deserving populations, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas like North Hastings.

The economic potential of Engineered Vegetative Roof Surfaces.

Our research paper, ‘Engineered Vegetative Roof Surfaces,’ delves into the potential of engineered vegetative roof surfaces to address environmental challenges, foster economic growth, and preserve cultural heritage, all while aligning with Canada’s Green Building Strategy. The study emphasizes the integration of traditional ecological knowledge with modern engineering practices, particularly within Indigenous and equity-deserving communities, to create innovative solutions that contribute to sustainable community development and tourism.

The research highlights the environmental benefits of vegetative roofs, such as reducing indoor temperatures by up to 5-8 degrees Celsius during summer, mitigating the urban heat island effect, and achieving energy savings of up to 10-15%. Additionally, vegetative roofs can significantly improve stormwater management by retaining 70-90% of rainfall, thus alleviating pressure on municipal drainage systems and reducing stormwater runoff volume by up to 50%. These benefits contribute to sustainable urban water management and enhance the resilience of cities to climate change.

Economically, properties with green roofs can see a 6-15% increase in value due to improved aesthetics, energy savings, and environmental benefits. Furthermore, the potential for sustainable job creation in the green renovation sector is substantial, particularly for equity-deserving communities. Our research identifies opportunities for specialized training and skill development programs that incorporate Algonquin knowledge and practices, promoting cultural preservation and economic resilience.

Moreover, the study explores the tourism potential of vegetative roofs, particularly in rural and remote areas. By integrating traditional Indigenous practices into the design and maintenance of these roofs, there is a unique opportunity to create educational and immersive tourism experiences that highlight the deep historical and cultural ties of Indigenous peoples to the land.

In conclusion, our research advocates for the adoption of engineered vegetative roof surfaces as a multifaceted solution to environmental, economic, and cultural challenges. By bridging traditional ecological knowledge with modern engineering, there is significant potential to advance sustainable building practices, create new economic opportunities, and enhance the well-being of communities across Canada.

Contact our Employment Portfolio.

Please contact us at employment@kijichomanito.com.