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:
The In-House Counsel works as directed by Chief and Council and the Chief Administrative Officer. The In-House Counsel advises Chief & Council and the Administration, on areas related to:
- On-Reserve land, environmental, community development, and resource management under the Musqueam Land Code and Musqueam bylaws,
- Property assessment and taxation under the Musqueam Assessment and Taxation bylaws,
- Administrative law and delivery of programming including health, education, employment & training, recreation, social development, safety & security, housing, membership, and culture & language,
- Financial management, funding agreements, risk management, and compliance with financial bylaws and policies,
- Public works, utilities, community infrastructure, and service agreements with municipalities,
- General advice including on-reserve governance, and
- Drafting and interpretation of Musqueam laws, bylaws, and policies.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Providing legal advice to Chief & Council regarding legal matters including governance and their fiduciary obligations,
- Providing legal advice to the Chief Administrative Officers related to the delivery of programs and services to Musqueam members, governance, and corporate matters,
- Advising on a wide range of day-to-day administrative issues,
- Drafting and reviewing complex legal agreements and documents,
- Assisting in the creation and implementation of policies and procedures,
- Implementing strategies and processes to proactively address legal and compliance risks for the Band, and
- Working with the CAO, managing external counsel support and delivery of advice as required.
- Other related duties as required.
- Law Degree (JD or LLB),
- Minimum 7-10 years of relevant experience,
- Membership in good standing in the Law Society of British Columbia,
- Thorough understanding of Indigenous politics and law, and
- Knowledge of business and administrative environment of Indian Bands.
- Knowledge of all areas of law required to effectively advise Chief and Council and Administration
- On-Reserve land, environmental, community development, and resource management under the Musqueam Land Code and Musqueam bylaws,
- Property assessment and taxation under the Musqueam Assessment and Taxation bylaws,
- Administrative Law - delivery of health, education, employment & training, recreation, social development, housing, membership, safety & security, and culture & language,
- Finance and Corporate law,
- Public works, utilities, major capital projects, and service agreements with municipalities,
- On-reserve governance and self-government,
- Drafting and interpretation of laws, bylaws, and policies,
- Fiduciary Law, and
- Familiarity with all relevant aspects of current Aboriginal law, including the Indian Act and other applicable legislation and bylaws.
- Strong analytical capability and judgement,
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to deal with ambiguity,
- Demonstrated ability to proactively provide ideas, advice and solutions relative to legal issues,
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills,
- Ability to work independently, and with teams that have diverse skills, knowledge, and educational backgrounds,
- Superior interpersonal, communication, organizational and analytical skills,
- Highly organized with the ability to juggle multiple priorities under tight deadlines; works well under pressure in a fast-paced work environment,
- Flexible and able to manage multiple priorities, taking on new responsibilities as required, and
- Demonstrates a high level of integrity; ability to demonstrate sound judgment in maintaining confidential and sensitive matters.
- Valid B.C. Drivers Licence
- Criminal Records Check
- The work is performed in an office environment.
- Flexibility needed for travel, as well as evening and weekend work.
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
- Centrally located with free parking; free onsite gym and class access; close to nature trails at UBC and along the Fraser River, shops, restaurants and services.