The community of Alert Bay has a population of approximately 1500 people (Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal). Located off the northwest tip of Vancouver Island, we offer some of the world’s best fishing, whale watching, kayaking, and other outdoor pursuits. The community is also an established center for Aboriginal artistic expression in all forms including carving, dance and other traditions.
Reporting to the Director of Natural Resources, the Forester will assist with the management, development and sustainable stewardship of natural resources within and adjacent to ‘Namgis First Nation territory.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
- Maintenance of a comprehensive understanding of ‘Namgis forest lands and resources
- Maintenance of knowledge of BC and Canadian government forest policy, legislation, regulations and legal precedents
- Development and implementation of policies that assist the ‘Namgis First Nation to effectively manage its forest resources
- Participation in economic development assessment activities related to Indian Reserves, fee-simple or tenured forest
- Coordination of the technical review of BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources Operations management processes, including Timber Supply Area Reviews, Forest Development Plans, Forest Stewardship Plans, TFL Management Plans and related or successor processes
- Coordination of the ‘Namgis First Nation Cultural Heritage Recourse field crew, including liaison with forest tenure holders, mobilization and support of field crews, provision of relevant data for inclusion in the ‘Namgis First Nation Culturally Modified Tree and Traditional Use Site databases
- Participation in the research, preparation and regular update of a bioregional atlas that provides comprehensive biophysical and cultural inventory data
- Participation in the research, preparation and regular update of territorial and sub-territorial land/water use plans
- Participation in the implementation of forestry related management and community economic development opportunities
- Management of a referral process that assess the positive and negative impacts of land alienation and/or economic development Participation in the assessment of the effectiveness of forest company certification processes, such as CSA, FSC, ISO 14001 and similar
- Participation, as required, in rights and title related research, negotiations, consultation, and community outreach activities
- Participation in preparation of funding proposals and project management related to achieving ‘Namgis natural resource management objectives
- Assist with the administration of obligations regarding the management of campsites, trails, cabins, and other cultural and eco-tourism infrastructure
- Coordinate and manage the Safety Plan for the Natural Resources Department
Skills and Experience:
- Knowledge of Kwakwaka’wakw culture is an asset
- Ability to work independently in a cross-cultural environment
- Strong written and verbal presentation skills
- Working familiarity with Microsoft Office and GIS software applications
- Familiarity with land use planning legislation, BC forestry legislation and field safety programs and training techniques
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Science in Forestry
- Current Registered Professional Forester certification in good standing
- Three to Five years’ experience in operational forest management in British Columbia
Salary and Benefits:
Salary is commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package is available
Interested candidates must submit a resume and covering letter by Friday, February 17, 2017 at 4:30 p.m. PST to:
Human Resources
Namgis First Nation, PO BOX 210, Alert Bay, BC V0N 1A0
or by email to: robinh@namgis.bc.ca