First Link Care Navigator

First Link Care Navigator

Job Category: Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay
Job Type: Full Time
Job Location: First Nation Communities, Geraldton, Longlac, Manitouwadge, Marathon, Nipigon, Red Rock, Thunder Bay

The Dementia Connect/First Link Care Navigator DC/FLCN is responsible for the delivery of an inclusive, no barrier, responsive, first point of contact experience for all referrals received from across the Region and are recognized as first point of access or “go-to” person for all individuals experiencing changes to their cognitive and/or brain functioning.  The DC/FLCN strives to ensure that every person has timely access to information, learning opportunities and support to achieve their optimal level of wellbeing and functioning when managing changes to their cognitive functioning or a in someone they support. The DC/FLCN primarily serve the public and Care Partners, but they also support individuals living with a dementia-related condition, regardless of a formal diagnosis.

Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay has three full-time positions available, strategically placed across the district to support communities including Thunder Bay, Nipigon, Red Rock, Geraldton, Longlac, Marathon, Manitouwadge, and surrounding First Nation communities.

Job Description

Job Title: First Link Care Navigator
Reports To: Executive Director
Status: Full-time position (35 hours per week)
Salary: $60,000

What You’ll Do

Outreach & Community Engagement

• Build meaningful relationships with health care teams, clinics, and community referral sources
• Raise awareness of dementia services and create earlier referral pathways
• Develop and execute an annual outreach plan for your service area
• Partner with Public Education staff to deliver consistent programming in rural settings

Dementia Support Line

• Answer incoming calls with empathy, providing information, emotional support, and service navigation
• Support individuals in distress using evidence-based stress management approaches
• Recommend mental health strategies for more complex client needs

Care Navigation & Coordination

• Proactively manage First Link referrals to ensure early intervention before and after diagnosis
• Conduct assessments and develop individualized care plans using a person- and family-centred approach
• Coordinate care across health and community service providers, facilitating regular care conferences
• Advocate for clients and navigate barriers to service access throughout the care continuum
• Maintain strong working relationships with physicians, hospitals, mental health services, LTC homes, and community organizations

Group Education & Support Groups

• Plan, implement, and evaluate a 5-week hybrid education series (minimum 4 cycles per year)
• Facilitate weekly hybrid support groups for care partners
• Invite community specialists and ensure barrier-free, accessible participation

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, nursing, gerontology, or a related health care field
• Master’s level education is an asset
• Must be a registered health care professional under the Regulated Health Professions Act (nursing, social work, or OT) — proof of current registration and Professional Liability Insurance required
• A combination of education and relevant experience will be considered

Experience

• 3–5 years of direct therapeutic support in the health and/or social service sector
• Direct experience supporting people living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, and their care partners
• Experience with complex mental health needs and knowledge of community services across the region
• Familiarity with therapeutic modalities such as CBT, coaching, and resilience-building approaches
• Experience in inter-professional collaboration and as a coach, counsellor, educator, and service navigator

Skills & Other Requirements

• Advanced active listening and exceptional interpersonal communication skills
• Strong problem-solving, change management, and independent decision-making abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management/care coordination platforms
• Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and experience in diverse communities
• Ability to facilitate education sessions and lead group support
• French or other language skills are an asset
• Valid Class G driver’s licence, personal vehicle in safe working condition, and $2M liability coverage

How to Apply
Interested applicants are invited to submit a resume and cover letter to Northern Peak HR at recruitment@northernpeakhr.com . Please note that regular travel throughout the district is required for this position.

The Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay is committed to inclusive, equitable, and accessible hiring practices. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates participating in all stages of the recruitment process.

This posting is managed by Northern Peak HR, a local recruitment partner supporting employers across Thunder Bay. To view more local opportunities, visit NORTHERN PEAK HR.