Coastal & Marine Conservation, Stewardship

Position: NCCE Program Manager
Organization: North Coast Skeena First Nations Stewardship Society
Location: Prince Rupert, BC / Hybrid

The North Coast Skeena First Nation Stewardship Society (NCSFNSS) serves the governments and peoples of the Gitga’at, Gitxaała, Kitselas, and Kitsumkalum First Nations. We are honoured and dedicated to preserving and managing the rich natural resources of our region in a sustainable and culturally respectful manner. We work closely with communities and partners to ensure the health and vitality of our environment and traditional practices.

As the Program Manager of the North Coast Cumulative Effects program, you will play a pivotal role in driving the development and implementation of strategic projects to support the Marine Plan Partnership (MaPP) Cumulative Effects Framework as part of the North Coast Stewardship Program. Working closely with our First Nations partners and stakeholders, you will lead efforts to assess, manage, and monitor cumulative effects on our common core values. Collaborating directly with the North Coast Stewardship Forum First Nations Partners, including the Metlakatla and Haisla Nations, and reporting to the NCSFNSS Executive Director, you will provide expert assistance on program progress, milestones and budget needs. Additionally, you will be part of an organizational team that works to carry out the mandate of the NCSFNSS Board.

Why Choose NCSFNSS?

• Commitment to Indigenous Values: NCSFNSS is deeply rooted in Indigenous values and traditions, emphasizing respect for the land, water, and all living beings. Working for NCSFNSS means aligning with these values and contributing to the empowerment of Indigenous communities.
• Community Collaboration: You will work in partnership with First Nations communities, governmental agencies, and stakeholders to co-develop and implement initiatives that benefit the entire region.
• Meaningful Impact: You will make a tangible difference in the North Coast-Skeena region. Through your collaborative work with the First Nation’s partners, you will have the opportunity to assist in leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
• Professional Growth: NCSFNSS is committed to supporting the professional growth and development of its employees. Whether through training opportunities, mentorship programs, or hands-on experience, you will have the chance to enhance your skills and expertise.
• Beautiful Location: The North Coast Skeena region is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with pristine forests, rivers, and coastlines. You will have the privilege of working in this stunning environment, connecting with nature on a daily basis.

What You Will Do:

• Planning and Project Management: In collaboration with the North Coast Stewardship Forum Partners you will lead the annual planning process, developing and implementing work plans and budgets. Your effective leadership abilities will manage cross-functional teams to achieve work plan deliverables, and oversee program contracts to ensure compliance and effective implementation. Your project management experience will monitor workflows, identify opportunities, and resolve issues related to program implementation.
• Nation Participation and Governance: As directed by the employer, you will provide support to First Nations partners by participating in MaPP and North Coast Stewardship Forum technical and administrative working groups. You will coordinate Tier 1 and Tier 2 technical and managerial meetings, prepare briefings, reports and communication products. At times, when requested by the First Nations partners you will engage in regional tables to ensure that there is alignment with the North Coast Stewardship Project’s priorities. You will require a comprehensive understanding of relevant governance processes and structures.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Development: With your extraordinary relationship-building skills you will liaise with stakeholders, government agencies, funders, and funding administrators to sustain support for the program. In addition, you will develop partnerships with government officials and other key stakeholders to advance CE initiatives.

What We Value:

• Experience, Knowledge and Expertise: Proven experience in developing co-governance structures and policies supporting marine and coastal stewardship for First Nations. You bring your effective experiences working with First Nations, preferably on the North Coast of BC, for collaborative stewardship and resource planning initiatives. You will have knowledge of Federal and Provincial management regimes and processes related to marine and coastal resource management planning. Lived experience as a person of Indigenous ancestry would be highly valued for this position.
• Educational Background: Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, environmental science, marine planning, fisheries biology).
• Leadership Excellence: You are self-driven with extraordinary leadership and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with stakeholders, facilitate meetings, and build consensus. You will champion an inclusive and engaged work environment.
• Program Management: You have excellent fund procurement and management skills, including proposal writing and reporting. You are very capable to oversee multiple projects and initiatives.
• Collaboration: You have the ability to work effectively as part of a large team with multiple partners at technical and management levels.
• Board & Forum Communication: Strong communication skills are essential as you prepare briefing notes and reports as required for the NCSFNSS Board and North Coast Stewardship Forum governance processes.
• Additional Assets: Knowledge and skill sets in marine ecology, ecosystem-based management, ecological indicators, marine plan implementation and its importance to First Nations communities through previous work, authorship or other means.

We offer a salary of between $92,000 to $105,000 with benefits, a flexible work schedule including compressed work week, a hybrid/remote work environment, and a great opportunity to lead a program and a team that is committed to advancing our mission. Join us in making a positive difference in the North Coast-Skeena region!

This job will be advertised until a suitable applicant has been selected.

Please submit applications including a cover letter and résumé to: Carmen Hansen at: administration@ncsfnss.ca

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People of Indigenous ancestry are strongly encouraged to apply. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those with diverse backgrounds and those with disabilities. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application process, please let us know. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

• Must have a Bachelor’s degree in relevant field (e.g., biology, environmental science, marine planning, and/or fisheries biology).
• Must possess a valid drivers licence.
• Qualified candidate subject to a background check.