Archaeology Officer

Department: Land and Environment Reports To: Director of Land and Environment Status: Full-Time Salary: $32 to $36 per hour, based on experience Application Deadline: Open until filled Do you have a background with Indigenous-led archaeology and environmental projects, coordinating and responding to land and resource referrals while protecting and managing cultural heritage and archaeological interests? Songhees Nation is hiring an Archaeology Officer to work with external government agencies, developers, Songhees elders and knowledge holders and assist Songhees to ensure cultural, archaeological and environmental protocols, consultation and protections are met in Ləkʷəŋən traditional territory. This position will work in collaboration with the land and environment department including research, field work and projects. The Ləkʷəŋən is referenced by the Indian Act as the Songhees Nation, and the nation serves approximately 600 members on New Songhees Reserve 1A and living away from home. The Songhees Land and Environment vision is a sustainable land base meeting current and future needs for cultural, residential, recreational, commercial and community land use. Songhees Nation’s Tl’ches Marine Use Plan reflects community priorities and values with appropriate laws and regulations for cultural, archaeological and environmental protection and conservation. This position will be assisting with planning within the Songhees reserve lands and traditional territory including archaeology and environment. If you’d like to join a committed team implementing Indigenous-led and directed work in Ləkʷəŋən territory and community, we want to hear from you. Who you are You are a professional with deep respect for Ləkʷəŋən culture, values and diversity. You are committed to the work of decolonization, accessibility and inclusivity, and you are passionate about protecting Indigenous cultural heritage which is Indigenous led. You are ready to contribute meaningfully to the Songhees vision of a thriving and inclusive community that creates equitable opportunities for Songhees Nation members. The ideal candidate brings lived experience in decolonization work and demonstrated experience working respectfully with Indigenous Nations. You are creative and strategic in your thinking, comfortable navigating complex relationships and skilled at managing multiple priorities. You thrive in a self-directed environment and are motivated by driving positive change in alignment with Songhees Nations’ values and goals. What you’ll be doing The Archaeology Officer will work collaboratively with the Director and staff in land and Environment department. The position will require engagement with elders, knowledge holders and oversee archaeology related referrals, permits and site investigations. This role supports Songhees Nation’s cultural and environmental objectives through a combination of office-based research, data management and field-based archaeology work. Key Responsibilities Archaeology and Cultural Resource Management and Protection Review, track and respond to archaeology referrals related to land use, development and environmental assessments. Conduct archaeological fieldwork, site investigation and artifact analysis. Analyze, catalog, and maintain artifacts on behalf of Songhees Nation. Review archaeological permit applications, impact assessments and related reports. Ensure the respectful handling of artifacts, ancestral remains and cultural features in accordance with Songhees protocols, laws and applicable legislation. Develop site management plans for culturally significant areas and provide recommendation to support preservation and indigenous reinstatement. Maintain maps and records of archaeological and cultural sites within Songhees traditional territory. Conduct collections-based research in support of repatriation initiatives, in collaboration with land and environment department staff. Data and Information Management Utilize tools such as the LOUIS TOOLKIT, GIS and other data collection software to enhance databases, maps and information systems. Maintain a centralized tracking system for archaeology and environmental file ensuring accurate documentation of deadlines statuses and responses to referrals. Compliance and Law, regulation and Policy Implementation Advise on the compliance of archaeology and environmental initiatives with applicable laws, regulations and polices. Support the implementation of Nation laws and policies related to archaeology, lands and environment protection. Assert Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) in the work in Songhees Traditional Territory. Community Engagement and Traditional Knowledge Work with land and environment staff, Elders, Knowledge Holders and land users to document traditional knowledge land use, oral histories and sacred sites. Facilitate community input and protocols for cultural heritage and archaeology projects. Ensure traditional knowledge and cultural sensitivity are embedded into archaeology practices and the knowledge and information remains with the Nation. Attend and participate in meetings, site visits, and technical discussions with proponents, government agencies and other stakeholders. Prepare formal responses letters, briefing notes and consultation summaries for leadership. Support community outreach and engagement initiatives led by the Lands and Environment Department. Participate in delegated working groups to ensure Songhees rights and environmental priorities are upheld. Archaeology oversight and Monitoring Conduct field inspections and research to ensure compliance with archaeology and cultural heritage elements in land use plans, laws, and regulations. Respond to environmental emergencies involving cultural and archaeological sites. Support land and environment activities relating to archaeology impacts in accordance with Nation and relevant legislation. Assist in the development of Archaeology and Environmental Plans. Team Training and Support Provide archaeology and cultural heritage mentorship to department staff, especially the Guardian employees. Assist in the capacity planning for growth in land and environment department including funding proposals for positions to further the archaeology and cultural heritage work in Songhees Territory and Nation land. Provide archeology and cultural heritage input for the design and delivery of environment projects. Assist with the Archaeology Field Workers and Guardian staff needs to support their growth in their roles in relation to cultural heritage and archaeology. Participate in or coordinate training for community monitors, youth, or department staff in archaeology and heritage protocols. Other related work within the Songhees Land and Environment department. Seek funding to expand archeology related programming. Qualifications Bachelor of Science in Archaeology (or equivalent degree with relevant experience) Minimum of 3-years of related professional experience. Knowledge of Indigenous, Lekwungen and Salish history and culture required. Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License (or equivalent) and Clean Drivers Abstract. Ability to pass a Criminal Record Check (CRC). Cultural and diversity knowledge and approach that respects Songhees members and protocols. Strong analytical skills and the ability to assess complex problems and propose practical solutions. Experience in project management, including planning, reporting and implementation. Excellent written and verbal communication skills including technical writing. Experience with field data collection, data management and QA/QC processes. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint). Ability to work collaboratively with department staff, nation members and external stakeholders. Additional Beneficial Skills Working in inclement weather conditions and remote locations. Experience working on or near water, with a strong focus on safety. Knowledge of environmental processes and reinstatement work. Experience with repatriation process and cultural heritage management Working on the water and inclement weather with care, and safety. Why Join Songhees Land and Environment Team? This position entails work beyond a job; it is a commitment to protecting the Songhees cultural heritage and archaeology on traditional lands with Songhees Nation. You will have an opportunity to be part of meaningful work that supports self-determination, cultural resurgence and environmental reinstatement. You will also participate in shaping Songhees cultural heritage and archaeology future growth, practices rooted in respect, reciprocity and Indigenous law. Benefits The successful candidate will be entitled to the Songhees Nation Pension and Benefits plan after the successful completion of the probation period. Benefits include extended health benefits, dental, life insurance, LTD, and AD&D. Recruitment Process Candidates will be required to complete a phone pre-screen, in person interview, reference checks, and a criminal record search, only those who are shortlisted will be contacted. How to Apply Please send resumes to: Kathy Bryce, Land Assistant and Registrar, Songhees Nation Phone 250-386-1043 ext. 208 Email: kathy.bryce@songheesnation.com Additional Information Songhees Nation is committed to increasing the number of members working for the Nation. Hiring preference will be given to qualified candidates who are Songhees Nation members, or those with Indigenous ancestry. If you require an accommodation as part of the recruitment process, please email felicity.peters@songheesnation.com #J-18808-Ljbffr