Director of Natural Resources

Overview

The Director of Tmicw is responsible for the leadership, coordination, and implementation of all natural resource initiatives across Neskonlith Indian Band (NIB) territory. This includes strategic oversight of forestry, fisheries, environmental planning, referral coordination, field operations, and cultural revitalization projects. The role integrates traditional ecological knowledge and technical standards to ensure sustainable use and protection of Neskonlith lands and waters. The Director also manages funding, supervises staff, and supports intergovernmental coordination.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Department Oversight: Direct all natural resource programs and initiatives; provide strategic recommendations to Chief & Council. Support the creation and structure of a centralized Natural Resources Department. Supervise departmental staff and ensure effective project delivery and reporting.
2. Forestry & Environmental Stewardship: Oversee field support for various forestry zones. Coordinate fire mitigation efforts including risk assessments and provincial agency collaboration. Ensure all forestry activities reflect traditional values and comply with regulatory requirements.
3. Fisheries & Watershed Management: Manage fisheries projects, including habitat restoration and protection of traditional fishing practices. Represent the Band in water and fisheries-related engagements with Crown governments.
4. Project Funding, Reporting & Administration: Identify funding opportunities; prepare and submit proposals and final reports. Maintain oversight of monthly funding/code tracking meetings and reporting deadlines. Ensure financial accountability across multi-source project portfolios. Support community cultural projects such as trail systems and cultural events. Coordinate with Knowledge Keepers, youth, and Elders to guide land-based cultural events and initiatives.
5. Four Band Table Engagement: Represent Neskonlith in the Four Band coordination group. Co-develop joint project summaries, policy frameworks, and regionally aligned proposals. Monitor and manage referral volumes; identify gaps and missed opportunities. Recommend improvements in systems and staffing to streamline the response process. Ensure referral responses align with Section 35 rights and community priorities.
6. Emergency & EOC Planning: Support planning for emergency operations (wildfires, flooding, landslides). Coordinate training, equipment procurement, and fire crew management.
7. Community Engagement & Education: Ensure community members are informed about projects and environmental decisions. Mentor youth and junior staff in technical, environmental, and cultural knowledge areas. Plan public engagement events (e.g., trail walks, ceremonies, fire safety days).

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Natural Resource Management, Environmental Studies, Indigenous Governance, or a related field.
• 5+ years of senior-level experience in Indigenous project or environmental management.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Indigenous land rights, referrals, consultation, and legal principles.
• Strong leadership, budgeting, and project coordination skills.
• Experience working with federal and provincial funding bodies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, GIS, and project management tools.

Compensation

• Suggested Salary: $90,000 – $115,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.
• Flexible work schedule for fieldwork, cultural events, and family responsibilities.

Working Conditions

• Office located at Neskonlith Indian Band administration offices.
• Travel and site visits required within traditional territory.
• Some evening and weekend work expected during fire season or cultural events.

Preference

Preference will be given to qualified Indigenous applicants, with a strong priority for Neskonlith Indian Band members, in accordance with Section 16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

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