Are you passionate about protecting the land, water, and resources for future generations? akisqnuk First Nation (AFN) is looking for aGuardians Coordinator to develop and support our Guardians program in monitoring, stewardship, and community engagement activities across our traditional territory.
As part of the Lands and Environment team, youll schedule field work, support training, oversee data collection, coordinate logistics, and help shape the future of our land-based programming. This is a dynamic, community-focused leadership role for someone who thrives on collaboration, coordination, and conservation. This position reports to the Lands and Environment Manager.
akisqnuk First Nation isa member Community of theKtunaxa Nation. AFNexists for the Community. Externally, we are here to serve the Community, and internally, we are our own Community, comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values. As a team, through our own roles and departments, the AFN Organization works together to achieve our strategic plan Our Thinking and continue to progress and move our community forward.
Job Type: This role is full-time working 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday working onsite in the office.
The primary responsibilities include:
Program Coordination:
- Develop and implement work plans and schedules in collaboration with the Lands and Environment Manager.
- Coordinate Guardian duties to support land initiatives, research projects, and development activities.
- Maintain schedules for Guardians and track project progress.
- Establish procedures to collect and record ecological and cultural data, ensuring compliance and mitigating risks.
- Liaise with external organizations, government agencies, and other Guardian programs to coordinate joint activities and enhance program development.
- Manage program logistics, including equipment, travel, training, and staff scheduling, ensuring contingency plans for changing circumstances.
- Recognize and celebrate team achievements while fostering a collaborative and learning-oriented environment.
Program Implementation:
- Champion and implement the strategic vision, goals, and objectives of the Guardian Program.
- Develop and implement safety protocols for field operations.
- Monitor program effectiveness and ensure compliance with land laws and regulations.
- Respond to reports of concern on the lands and oversee the collection of land and water health data.
- Build relationships with federal agencies, partners, and collaborators to secure funding and expand program initiatives.
Community Engagement:
- Engage and involve citizens in the Guardian Program.
- Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Holders, and community members to document and monitor significant sites and resources.
- Coordinate and host community outreach and education activities to provide regular updates on program activities.
Administration:
- Research and apply for funding opportunities to sustain and enhance the program.
- Manage contracts and ensure deliverables and reporting requirements are met.
- Maintain databases for Knowledge Keepers and Guardians.
- Track project activities, manage program administration, and ensure accurate financial reporting.
- Working closely with the Finance team to track project budgets and client billing.
- Preserve and document community traditions and activities to create historical knowledge.
- Prepare reports, briefing notes, newsletter contributions, and presentations as needed.
Other duties as required.
Qualifications:
- Completion of a two-year post-secondary program such as environmental studies, resource management or a related field is required.
- Two + years of progressively more responsible experience creating and coordinating a similar program.
- Excellent organization and communication skills (must have very strong writing skills).
- Knowledge of relevant federal and provincial legislation, regulations, and policies related to environmental protection.
- Knowledge of Indigenous land rights issues and effective land management practices.
- Knowledge of environmental science, and land-based policy, and regulations, including BCs DRIPA and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples an asset.
- Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, external stakeholders, and technical experts.
What we offer:
- Competitive base salary (starting salary $60,000 to $70,000 per annum)
- Discretionary office closure between Christmas Day and New Years Day, as determined by the Council each year
- Paid annual vacation and sick days
- Employer-paid Group Benefits which includes Life Insurance, Health and Dental benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Critical Illness, and Long-Term Disability, available after 3 months of service
- Matched pension plan program with employer matching up to 5.5% of the employees salary, available after 4 months of service
- Live and work in the most beautiful place in British Columbia
Akisqnuk supports a diverse and inclusive work environment and welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. You must be legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.