Natural Resources Manager

Position Summary: 

Reporting to the Lands and Resources Director (LRD), the Natural Resources Manager will oversee the operations related to conservation and environmental management projects for AFN. This position is responsible for directing and managing Natural Resources Department staff to work towards achieving AFN's strategic goals (mission, mandate, and objectives) through efficient and effective use of resources and service delivery. These activities include consultations, environmental approvals and planning.

In addition to the projects they oversee, the Natural Resources Manager provides specialized technical support to ʔakisq̓nuk community's growth. This position supports and collaborates with other staff within the Lands and Natural Resource. 

ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation (ʔAFN) is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation. ʔAFN exists 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 ʔAFN Organization works together to achieve our strategic plan "Our Thinking" and continue to progress and move our community forward.

Note: This position is full-time with a set weekly schedule (35 hrs/week, Monday - Friday) working onsite at AFN's offices.

Major Position Responsibilities:

Resource Management and Planning

• Develop and implement natural resource management plans that align with AFN's cultural, environmental, and economic goals.
• Conduct assessments and monitor the health of natural resources, including forests, water bodies, wildlife, and land.
• Ensure sustainable use of natural resources, balancing economic development with conservation.
• Supervise and direct the planning, implementation, and monitoring of natural resource management programs to meet current and future anticipated natural resource service needs
• Prepare, administer, amend, and execute annual work plans, budgets, and schedules
• Develop briefing notes to Chief and Counsel
• Cultivate innovative strategies to advance the natural resource management goals of AFN.
• Work with the LRD to scope and develop projects related to lands and natural resources, guided by the Strategic Plan and Land Use Plan including - Terrestrial Ecosystem Restoration (prescribed burning, forest, grassland, wetland), Archaeology, Forestry, Environmental Site Assessments & Remediation, and Climate Adaptation.
• Navigate internal, provincial, and federal land use processes and secure appropriate approvals to conduct project activities, including but not limited to: federal timber permit applications, biological assessments, species-at-risk permits, and cultural heritage protections.

Community Engagement and Consultation

• Engage with community members to understand their needs, concerns, and traditional knowledge related to natural resource management.
• Facilitate community consultations and meetings to discuss resource management plans and gather feedback.
• Collaborate with Elders and knowledge keepers to integrate traditional ecological knowledge into management practices.

Policy Development and Advocacy

• Work with leadership to develop policies and guidelines for natural resource use that reflect community priorities.
• Advocate for AFN's rights and interests in resource management discussions with government agencies, industry, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in negotiations related to land use, resource development, and environmental protection.

Environmental Protection and Stewardship

• Implement strategies to protect and restore ecosystems, habitats, and species of cultural and environmental significance.
• Monitor and manage the impacts of industrial activities, such as mining, forestry, and fishing, on the community's lands and resources.
• Coordinate environmental assessments and participate in regulatory processes.

Collaboration and Partnerships

• Build and maintain relationships with government bodies, non-governmental organizations, industry, and other First Nations.
• Collaborate on joint initiatives, such as co-management agreements or conservation projects.
• Seek funding and resources to support natural resource management activities.

Education and Capacity Building

• Promote environmental education and awareness within the community, particularly among youth.
• Provide training and capacity-building opportunities for community members in areas related to resource management.
• Support the development of local expertise in environmental stewardship and sustainable resource use.

Compliance and Enforcement

• Ensure that resource management activities comply with local, provincial, and federal regulations, as well as community policies.
• Monitor and enforce resource use agreements and land-use plans.
• Address illegal activities, such as poaching or unauthorized resource extraction, in collaboration with relevant authorities.

Data Management and Reporting

• Collect and analyze data related to natural resource use and environmental conditions.
• Prepare reports and presentations for community leadership, funding agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate records of resource management activities and outcomes.

Leadership and Supervisor of Team Members

• Full suite of leadership and HR responsibilities.
• Directly supervise and mention staff, complete performance reviews and goal setting
• Recruitment and train future team members  

Qualifications:

• Degree in Environmental studies, Forestry, Conservation, Wildlife Biology etc.
  
• Working knowledge and experience in sustainable land use and resource management and planning.
• Experience interpreting and administering complex legislation and regulations, preferably related to land management.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, grants, and funding agreements.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deliver measurable results.
• Strong leadership, facilitation, and communication skills.
• High degree of professionalism, integrity, and cultural awareness.
• Ability to work collaboratively with leadership, community members, and external partners.
• A collaborative spirit and proactive approach to problem-solving, negotiation, and strategic thinking.

NOTE: A criminal check will be conducted on the successful applicant

What we offer:

• Starting salary between $80,000 to $90,000, depending on education and experience
• Discretionary office closure between Christmas Day and New Year's 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, health spending account, Employee Assistance Program, Disability coverage, available after 3 months of service
• Matched pension plan with employer matching up to 5.5% of the employee's salary, available after 4 months of service
• Live and work in the most beautiful place in British Columbia

ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals. In accordance with our commitment to reconciliation and employment equity, preference may be given to qualified candidates who self-identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. We encourage Indigenous applicants to self-identify in their application.