Advisor, Indigenous and Rural Relations

Requisition ID: 4559
Affiliation: Exempt
Position Type: Temporary Full Time
Fixed Term Duration: Anticipated to end September 7, 2027
Number of Openings: 1
Bi-weekly Working Hours: 70 hours bi-weekly
Shift/Work Schedule: Monday - Friday
Department: Indigenous & Rural Relations
Job Location: Fort McMurray

Starting Salary Range*: $107,582 - $117,668 (Pay Band F)

Posted (dd/mm/yyyy): 05/09/2026
Closing Date (dd/mm/yyyy): 20/09/2026
Posting Type: Internal and External

*The Municipality offers competitive compensation. The starting salary for this position will be within the range listed above and dependent upon the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.

We strive to make our hiring process accessible to all candidates. If you require accommodation for the interview or any other part of the application process, please let us know.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:

The Indigenous and Rural Relations department is dedicated to fostering strong, respectful, and collaborative relationships with Indigenous and rural communities across the region. The team ensures that municipal programs, services, and decisions are informed by meaningful engagement, cultural awareness and a commitment to reconciliation.

Key functions of the department include:

• Leading engagement and consultation with Indigenous and rural communities.
• Supporting cultural awareness and reconciliation initiatives across the Municipality.
• Developing and maintaining protocols that respect Indigenous traditions and practices.
• Providing advice and guidance to Council and administration on Indigenous and rural matters.
• Advocating for the unique needs and priorities of rural communities.
• Partnering on community development projects that enhance inclusion, sustainability and quality of life.

By advancing partnerships, supporting community voices, and celebrating the diverse histories and traditions that shape the region, Indigenous and Rural Relations plays a vital role in creating an inclusive and connected Wood Buffalo for today and future generations.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Advisor, Indigenous and Rural Relations, is responsible for liaising and communicating with designated communities and partners on municipal services and agreements, and to obtain input and feedback on issues or concerns as they relate to Indigenous and Rural Relations. Primary responsibilities of this position include:

Program Development: Assists the Manager with overall program service delivery with direct involvement in daily operations and overall administration. Researches and assists with the development and implementation of departmental strategies, tools, administrative directives based on best practices for continuous improvement.

Departmental Advice: Acts as a departmental advisor to provide technical and functional guidance regarding policies, procedures, program implementation, and legislation to management and other staff. This advice will ensure consistent, innovative, and legislatively compliant administrative guidelines, policies, procedures, and precedents.

Service Delivery: Supports community and Indigenous organizations that benefit the various hamlets and Indigenous communities. Develops and implements Indigenous engagement policies and strategies. Works with rural staff to develop appropriate policies, to address current and emerging community issues and to build awareness within the Municipality of the unique relationship and civic responsibility to Indigenous residents. Coordinates the Municipality’s engagement and communication processes with rural and Indigenous communities and partners.

SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, leaders, and external contacts.
• Interacts in a manner that builds trust, credibility, and rapport.
• Proven ability to interpret legislation and regulations.
• Leadership, motivational, communications, and facilitation skills that enable collaborative work with staff at all levels.
• Written and verbal communication skills that allow to the incumbent inform and advise others clearly.
• Problem-solving and negotiation skills.
• Must be a self-starter able to work with minimal supervision and direction.
• Proficient in various computer applications.
• Knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture issues, communities, and protocols.
• Sound judgement and ability to maintain confidentiality of material and information.

EDUCATION:

• Degree in Indigenous Studies, Community Development, Social Work, Education, Indigenous Law, or equivalent.

EXPERIENCE:

• Five (5) years of experience working with, or in, Indigenous communities.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Experience working in a public sector environment considered an asset.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Submission of a Criminal Record Check.
• A valid Class Five (5) Operator’s License is required as incumbent will be required to operate a personal or municipal vehicle for business use on a regular basis.

SAFETY:

As an employee of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, the incumbent is responsible and accountable for knowing and working in accordance with the Health and Safety Directive. As per Section 2 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the incumbent shall ensure, while in the employ of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, the health and safety of employees, contractors, and the public.