Lands & waters stewardship, habitat preservation, ecological restoration 

Hiring: Junior Biologist
First Nation: Seabird Island Band
Location: Agassiz, BC

Position Summary

Seabird Island is committed to the stewardship of our lands, waters, and natural resources. We are dedicated to creating a culturally safe and inclusive environment that respects and values Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and ways of being. We are seeking a Junior Biologist to join our team, working collaboratively to enhance habitat preservation, restoration efforts, and advocacy for rights and title related to natural resource management.

Under the direction of the Project/Division Manager (Fish, Wildlife, Natural Resources and Referrals), the Junior Biologist provides culturally informed biological expertise to support habitat restoration, environmental research, and traditional land use assessments. This role involves conducting fieldwork, monitoring ecological conditions, and ensuring development projects align with environmental and cultural criteria. The Junior Biologist will also engage in community relations activities, supporting knowledge sharing and collaboration with internal departments, external agencies, and co-management partners.

Work that matters

Sq'éwqel (Seabird Island Band) is located 1 kilometer from Agassiz, BC on the beautiful Fraser River, 120 km east of Vancouver. We are dedicated to fostering a vibrant and resilient community. Our work spans a diverse range of services including housing, education, health, wellness, early childhood development, community infrastructure, and cultural vitalization. By joining our team, you will be part of an organization that values First Nations knowledge, promotes self-advocacy, and strives to create a holistic and culturally safe environment for all community members.

Become a part of our team and help us continue making meaningful impacts every day.

Benefits and perks

• Extended health and dental benefits,
• Accrued vacation and sick time,
• Access to internal training programs, professional development, and skill enhancement
• Collaboration with an interdisciplinary team
• Equitable hourly rates
• Casual dress code

What you'll do

Advocacy & Policy

• Ensure and promote First Nations fishing and traditional harvest rights through lobbying and direct engagement with decision-makers.
• Work with governing bodies to enforce UNDRIP stipulations related to fisheries access and resource management.
• Represent Seabird Island at the Lower Fraser Fisheries Alliance, advocating for conservation and equitable access for First Nations compared to commercial and recreational fishing interests.

Project Assistance

• Collaborate with the Project Manager and Biologist to apply for grants and manage project funds for habitat enhancement and restoration initiatives.
• Collect and analyze data on fisheries, habitat conditions, and aquatic resources to support conservation efforts.
• Monitor commercial, recreational, and First Nations fisheries openings and fishing activities to ensure compliance with regulations and sustainability goals.
• Conduct fieldwork, including habitat restoration, environmental monitoring, and stock assessments.
• Lead efforts to protect and restore species at risk and species of cultural significance to Seabird Island and the region.

Research

• Conduct in-depth research and interpret data on fisheries, aquatic wildlife, and habitat impacts from industry, infrastructure, and land use.
• Identify and establish baseline and trend data to inform habitat and species management strategies.
• Assess key environmental indicators to measure the effectiveness of habitat enhancement and protection initiatives.
• Assist in developing a comprehensive monitoring framework incorporating spatial and temporal data to track trends and cumulative environmental effects.
• Prepare and present scientific findings in reports, ensuring accessibility for decision-makers and stakeholders.

Community Engagement & Education

• Develop and implement community engagement initiatives that promote fisheries conservation and traditional ecological knowledge.
• Facilitate educational programs and outreach activities to raise awareness about habitat sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Administrative

• Maintain detailed records and documentation of meetings, consultations, and project activities.
• Coordinate and track project activities, ensuring deliverables are met on schedule.
• Compile reports and summaries for internal use, funding agencies, and external stakeholders.
• Attend relevant internal and external meetings, conferences, and training sessions to stay informed on industry developments and best practices.

Other Duties

• Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.

What you bring

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or graduate degree in Biology, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, or equivalent education with 2-3 years of experience OR 2-year post-secondary diploma in Environmental Management, Ecological Restoration, or Environmental Technician with minimum 4 years’ experience.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills. Pursuing In Training status (BIT, Trainee RBTech, Trainee ABT) membership with the College of Applied Biologists in BC.
• Desire to complete Geographic information systems (GIS) training.
• Ability to research available data and extrapolate them to the Seabird setting.
• Experience with data collection, databases creation and information management
• Experience in identifying baseline and trend information to inform future land use.

Working / Special Conditions

• Initial and ongoing employment is subject to submission of a clear Criminal Record Check to ensure the safety and trust of the communities we serve. This check will be conducted every five years.
• Initial and ongoing commitment to the values and guidelines of Sq'éwqel (Seabird Island Band), including our policies, procedures, standards of practice, and laws, is essential. This commitment supports our collective work, the community, and the responsibilities of this role.
• Must possess a valid class 5 driver's license and have access to safe and reliable transportation, insured for community-based use, to effectively engage and support projects, work, and initiatives

Preferred:

• First Nations candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.
• Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Island’s culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.
• Ability to respond quickly and professionally to community or colleague needs and inquiries.
• Excellent writing, editing, charting and verbal communication skills

Cultural Competency:

• Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
• Experience working within Indigenous communities and applying culturally safe practices.
• Understanding of intergenerational trauma and its impacts on Indigenous peoples and communities.

Reports to: Project/Division Manager (Fish, Wildlife, Natural Resources and Referrals)

How to apply

Have a question about this position before you apply? Email careers@seabirdisland.ca .

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience, particularly in relation to Biology. Please include references that can speak to your experience and skills.

careers@seabirdisland.ca
Subject: Junior Biologist

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Employment is conditional upon completing pre-employment screening to ensure a safe and secure work environment in which students, staff, members, families, community, as well as resources, and assets are protected. All background checks, reference checks and criminal record checks are performed in accordance with Seabird Island Human Resources Policy Manual, protecting the integrity and confidentiality of information gathered during the evaluation.

Pre-Employment Screening

Seabird Island is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions that Indigenous people bring to our team. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous people. Pursuant to S. 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit heritage. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in Canada; however, we are not able to sponsor visas.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.