Junior Water Guardian

Position: Junior Water Guardian

Department: Environment Department

Report To: Supervisor of Water Guardian

Status : Full- time Permanent

Salary: $20 – 26 $.

Health benefits/pension package after a probationary period of 6 months.

VISION

Caldwell First Nation is a strong sovereign Nation that honors the past, present, and future for the next seven generations.

MISSION

Our mission is to protect our inherent Treaty rights, renew and preserve our culture, language, and traditions, and strengthen the socio-economic future of our citizens.

CONTEXT STATEMENT:

A strong sovereign First Nation fighting assimilation and respecting other nations. Working to build a foundation with other nations that embraces trust, harmony and honour. A community living in harmony with all of Creation, maintaining a healthy balance between individual and community needs and working productively with other Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments and communities.

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Environment Department Water Guardian and working within the Environment Department (ED), the Junior Water Guardian is a full-time (contract) position with variable hours supporting Caldwell First Nation water-related environment initiatives. This includes working with and learning from the current Water Guardian, coordinating and monitoring on and around water projects, data collection and processing, and internal and external environmental assessments across CFN's Traditional Territory. The Junior Water Guardian is also responsible for collecting, incorporating, and advocating for Caldwell band members' and Anishinaabe cultural/ecological knowledge and interests in the execution of projects and the Department's rights-based initiatives. While a one-year contract position, the role is multi-year in its outlook and renewal of contract and the possibility of full-time work will depend on Department's capacity-building and funding. The Junior Water Guardian must understand Caldwell First Nation's specific priorities and perform to promote the Nation's vision and values.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Water Monitoring & Field Work

• Conduct water quality sampling and monitoring across CFN's Traditional Territory
• Assist in conducting site visits and environmental monitoring as needed by Environment Department
• Learn and apply GIS skills for lake/coastal mapping and data collection
• Support wetland restitution and restoration initiatives

Community Engagement & Traditional Knowledge

• Engage CFN community in Lake Management programs
• Conduct and assist in community engagements on coastal, wetland, and lake management programs
• Collect, incorporate, and advocate for Caldwell band members' and Anishinaabe cultural/ecological knowledge
• Assist in modelling, developing, and deploying Traditional Ecological Knowledge studies

Program Development & Capacity Building

• Support the development, institution, and maintenance of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs)
• Assist in the development of a Community Coastal Monitoring Plan
• Support capacity building in environmental programming
• Assist in conducting presentations for CFN Leadership and the community

Administrative & Technical Support

• Commit to in-person project management, community engagement, and tasks in the office and in the field
• Perform remote or virtual work as directed by Department Manager and Water Guardian
• Pursue continuous learning in water-related skills and environmental monitoring
• Follow all CFN policies and procedures and the Environment Department guidelines

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education & Certification:

• Post-Secondary diploma in progress or completed in Indigenous Studies, Environmental Science, or related field
• Equivalent Anishinaabe Traditional Knowledge background (subject to CFN staff review)
• Valid G driver's license and clean driver's abstract

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in Windows OS, Microsoft Office programs and Google Suite applications
• Willingness to learn GIS mapping and water quality monitoring techniques
• Ability to research and convey information effectively orally and in written form

Preferred Experience:

• Experience working with or within Indigenous communities
• Background in environmental monitoring or water-related fieldwork
• Experience with community engagement and traditional knowledge integration

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Technical Skills

• Basic computer proficiency with ability to learn new software and monitoring equipment
• Willingness to develop water quality sampling and environmental monitoring skills
• Ability to assist with data collection and processing for environmental assessments

Interpersonal Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for Anishinaabe protocols and Traditional Knowledge
• Ability to work effectively with community members and Environment Department staff

Professional Attributes

• High standard of work ethic and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Able to work independently and in a team environment
• Ability to complete tasks in a timely manner
• Commitment to continuous learning and skill development
• Must follow all policies and procedures of Caldwell First Nation

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work involves both an office environment and extensive fieldwork in various weather conditions
• Standard hours are 8-hour days with overtime and travel as needed
• Must be able to conduct fieldwork in various terrains and near water bodies
• Position requires commitment to in-person work with some remote/virtual work as directed

TRAVEL

• Travel within Caldwell First Nation's Traditional Territory required
• Some overtime and additional travel as approved by Environment Department Manager

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter.

Job Type: Permanent

Pay: $20.00-$26.00 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Work Location: In person