Environmental Assessment

Position: Environmental Assessment Lead
Organization: Simpcw First Nation
Location: Barriere, near Kamloops BC (in person)

The Simpcw are part of the Secwepemc, or Shuswap, Nation – one of 17 Bands who currently and historically lived in the Thompson River Valley. In total, Simpcw Territory covers approximately 5,000,000 hectares of land, encompassing several provincial parks as well as part of Jasper National Park. Today, Simpcw First Nation has nearly 800 members, many of whom live in Chu Chua - the location of the main village of Simpcw First Nation, which is about 45 minutes North of Kamloops. Simpcw’s membership and community are committed to continuing to foster prosperity and support each other, leading to a strong Band that is focused on the advancement of its people and the protection of its land for generations to come. Simpcw First Nation has developed its own environmental assessment process, with the assistance of a consultant, that has been approved and adopted by the Council. The process/policy is, for the most part, consistent with provincial and federal EA processes, while also factoring in Simpcw traditional knowledge of their lands.

The Environmental Assessment Lead (EA Lead) will be responsible for administering the Simpcw Assessment Process Policy for all developments on or affecting Simpcw Territory. This inaugural position will include providing expert regulatory advice to project stakeholders during all stages of each project life cycle, including planning and feasibility studies, and environmental impact assessment. The initial focus will be on the Yellowhead Copper Project in partnership with Taseko Mines, its selected proponent.

An important element of this role will be learning and understanding the community dynamics within the Simpcw First Nation. Not all members are in favour of mining and other industrial and commercial developments, and some are quite vocally opposed. So, the new EA Lead will need to understand all views and the history affecting them. The new EA Lead will also be tasked with hiring and developing an emerging environmental analyst to provide support and potential succession for the EA Lead.

As the ideal candidate, you will bring significant experience in environmental assessment in Western Canada, particularly in organizational and project leadership roles. Experience in mining (ideal), forestry, renewable energy, or other significant industrial projects is required, and experience working with Indigenous groups will be an asset. Alternatively, candidates could bring federal, provincial, or municipal government environmental assessment experience with exposure to large heavy industry projects. Working knowledge of BC’s Environmental Assessment Act and the Canadian Impact Assessment Act. Personable and professional with a track record of effectively managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government.

Based in the Thompson River Valley region of southern British Columbia, this is an excellent opportunity to have a meaningful and lasting impact on an Indigenous community and ensure the environmental protection of a significant and important region of beautiful British Columbia.

The salary range for this position is $120,000 to $150,000. Placement within a salary band is typically based upon a review of skills, experience, and internal equity.

To explore this opportunity further, please go to: boyden.thriveapp.ly/job/2559

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We thank all applicants for their interest in this position. Please note that we will only be in contact with those individuals moving forward with our client.