We are traditional hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking people. Today, we are a strong, growing community of over 1,300 members. We live on a small portion of our traditional territory, known as the Musqueam Indian Reserve, located south of Marine Drive near the mouth of the Fraser River. The name Musqueam relates back to the River Plant, the name of the plant is məθkʷəy̓. There is a story that has been passed on from generation to generation that explains how we became known as the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) - People of the River Plant. We have always moved throughout our territory using the resources it provides for fishing, hunting, trapping and gathering. We remain distinct and our cultural practices are strong, despite the devastating impacts of residential schools, colonial laws banning our ceremonies, and other attempts to assimilate our people. Our lands and waters continue to support our cultural and economic practices while serving as a source of knowledge and memory, encoded with our teachings and laws. To learn more about Musqueam, please visit www.musqueam.bc.ca
Position Summary:
Reporting to the Fisheries Manager, the Aboriginal Fisheries Officer (AFO) is responsible for the monitoring of the various Musqueam fisheries. The AFO also provides public education and awareness of the various fisheries, their cultural importance, the resource limitations and conservation practices.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Maintains community fish distribution, with the resources available;
- Conducts monitoring on the water; often on short notice;
- Develops reports on monitoring, sampling, and departmental affairs as required;
- Answers questions and queries from the Musqueam community
- Conducts interviews and/or inspections in the field through communicating, educating, and interviewing;
- Maintains ongoing contact with other MIB departments, and other external governmental and non-governmental contacts;
- Provides education and advice to fishers on the types and species of fish they are legally allowed to use, gear and restrictions, time and area, and improvements they could make;
- Collects and records information on hours worked on fisheries or habitat related activities such as: sites inspected; checks of vessels, persons, or vehicles; actions taken; and other administrative duties for planning use by the Commission;
- Maintains fisheries licenses logs; fisheries data logs and provides reports per MIB Fisheries to the Fisheries Manager per fishery;
- Reviews and makes sound analysis on referrals, and makes recommendations accordingly;
- Develops and maintains effective working relationships with colleagues and individuals from outside agencies;
- Keep up-to-date on the developing Fisheries Program via job shadowing the Senior Aboriginal Fisheries Officer;
- Taking pertinent courses;
- Assists in training courses for new recruits, colleagues, individuals from other agencies and public organizations; and
- Other related duties as required.
- Successful completion of High School Diploma, or equivalent, or post-secondary education. An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered;
- One year minimum knowledge of, and experience in, the Aboriginal fisheries, the fishing industry, habitat management, or conservation programs;
- Knowledge and experience of the delivery of similar programs in the context of Musqueam or other First Nations culture and history;
- Knowledge of various Aboriginal, Indigenous and First Nations Acts and Regulations;
- Knowledge and ability in policing and/or security measures in communication and conflict resolution;
- Basic boat handling knowledge;
- Valid First Aid Certificate (or willingness to take on-the-job);
- Valid Small Vessel Operator Certificate;
- Marine Emergency Duties Certificate;
- Proficiency with MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook);
- Ability to use sound judgement and diplomacy in high stress/conflict situations involving Musqueam cultural traditions;
- Must have awareness of social, economic, political and historical concerns in Indigenous communities;
- Ability to demonstrate professionalism in the workplace, and when representing the Musqueam Indian Band;
- Ability to interact and coordinate work efforts with other departments/agencies and provide input when required;
- Ability to use tact and judgement in dealing with sensitive and complex issues;
- Excellent interpersonal and communications skills including the ability to express ideas clearly and concisely;
- Ability to maintain confidentiality; and
- Ability to operate small vessels.
- Successful criminal record check;
- Valid Driver’s License.
- The work is performed in an office environment and outdoors or on a boat.
Our success as a leader as a First Nations Government is built on the traditional teachings of our people, initiative and dedication of the Musqueam Indian Band. Providing a highly engaged traditional government that is member focused.
- Competitive salary
- Training and career development
- Business casual environment
- Community fitness and gym access
- Comprehensive group benefits plan and pension plan