Indigenous Interp-Resource Worker Intern

Position Overview

Interpreter/Resource Workers provide assistance, guidance and support to patients and their families to navigate through the health care systems at each of the sites within the Winnipeg health region.

All patients have the right to have medical information interpreted into their primary language so they can make informed decisions about their care. The ability to communicate without language barriers improves the quality of care that patients receive, and decreases the risk of medical errors. Our interpreters have special training in medical terminology and function as members of the health care team. They facilitate communication between health providers and patients by providing interpretation in Cree, Ojibway/Saulteaux and Oji-Cree.

The Indigenous Health Program-Health Services is offering an internship program for Interpreter/Resource Workers. This opportunity will prepare and increase the awareness of the duties for an Interpreter/Resource Worker in the health care setting. This will provide an opportunity to be mentored and provide a structure where the intern can “learn on the job” the duties outlined below.

This will be a three (3) month internship. During this time the intern will have the opportunity to work at the following sites:

• One month-Health Sciences Centre.
• One month-St. Boniface General Hospital.
• One month-Mobile Unit (this consists of all other hospitals in the Winnipeg Region and personal care homes).

Experience

• Related experience in a health care setting.

Education (Degree/Diploma/Certificate)

• Complete high school education, Manitoba standards, required.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the above.

Certification/Licensure/Registration

• Class 5 driver’s license required.
• Access to a vehicle required.

Qualifications and Skills

• Language competency in a specified Indigenous language: one of Cree, Ojibway/Saulteaux/, Oji/Cree.
• General knowledge of medical terminology/or related experience and ability to interpret same fluently.
• Ability to read, write, speak and understand English.
• Knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture.
• Ability to interact well with other health care professionals, all levels of staff, patients and families.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of computer systems and proficiency in the use of current and related software applications (Microsoft Word, Access, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet search engines and email).
• Ability to prioritize workload, independently.
• Demonstrated ability to work within a team environment, including internal/external committee members, staff and colleagues.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.

Physical Requirements

Not Applicable