Job Description

Job Title:

Guardian Coordinator

Location:

Nak'azdli Whut'en, Fort St. James, BC

Number of Positions:

1

Employment Type:

Full-time (35 hours per week)

Wage:

$27.00 - $ 30.00 based on experience

About Us

Nak'azdli Whut'en is a proud Dakelh First Nation located near Fort St. James, British Columbia. Our community is deeply rooted in Dakelh culture, language, and values, emphasizing a connection to the land and a commitment to the well-being of our people. We are dedicated to creating inclusive and supportive services that reflect our culture and respect the unique perspectives and needs of our members. At Nak'azdli Whut'en, we strive to provide community-focused health and social services that uphold Indigenous values and address the distinct challenges facing our community.

Job Summary

The Guardian Coordinator plays a critical leadership role in the protection, stewardship, and conservation of Nak'azdli Whut'en natural resources. Under the direction of the Yinka Huwunline Manager, this position coordinates and supervises all guardianship operations--both in the field and administratively--and supports the implementation of the Nak'azdli Land Stewardship Plan. The coordinator also strengthens relationships with Keyoh holders and external stakeholders to ensure collaborative, respectful resource management.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Monitor Cultural and Natural Resources

Supervise, support, and train Guardian staff and Keyoh members involved in monitoring. Develop and implement natural resource policies and ensure compliance with community, provincial, and federal regulations. Patrol Nak'azdli Territory to monitor activities, document violations, and liaise with enforcement bodies (DFO, RCMP, BC Conservation, etc.). Maintain daily patrol logs, photo documentation, and use field data tools/databases. Ensure professional, culturally respectful approaches when responding to violations or community reports.

2. Territory Presence and Patrol

Coordinate patrols to maintain regular Guardian presence. Maintain vehicles, boats, ATVs, and equipment used in fieldwork. Engage visitors with safety guidance and information on Nak'azdli values and regulations. Monitor commercial, tourism, and mining sites, and support response to emergencies such as fires or spills.

3. Monitor Health of Priority Ecological and Cultural Values

Collect and analyze water samples, depth measurements, and data from key ecological sites. Track human activity, wildlife sightings, and Indigenous Knowledge Indicators. Enter and maintain accurate data records in relevant systems.

4. Relationship Building with Agencies

Develop and maintain working relationships with federal and provincial agencies (e.g., Parks Canada, BC Fish and Wildlife, DFO). Collaborate with neighboring Indigenous Nations to coordinate patrols and address shared concerns.

5. Community Engagement and Education

Present at community events, schools, and elder meetings to build environmental awareness. Offer opportunities for youth and community involvement in Guardian activities (e.g., joint patrols). Contribute articles and updates to community newsletters.

6. Other Duties

Participate in ongoing training and professional development. Perform other tasks as assigned by the Natural Resource Manager.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

Grade 12 diploma (required). Certification and experience in Environmental Monitoring and/or Guardian programs. Knowledge of Dakelh culture, Keyoh systems, and traditional territory. Ability to speak Dakelh is an asset.

Technical Skills:

Familiarity with provincial/federal resource regulations. Proficiency with MS Office Suite and digital filing systems. Skilled in navigation (GPS/maps), ATV/boat operations, and backroad travel.

Certifications (preferred or willing to obtain):

WHMIS, S100, OFA Level 1 Wilderness First Aid ATV/Boat Operation Certification Various Industry Certification & Orientation (e.g. NORCAT)

Other Requirements:

Physically fit; able to lift up to 50 lbs and work in rugged outdoor environments. Ability to travel and work independently in remote areas. Clear Criminal Record Check. Must pass a medical screening, including drug testing and health assessment. Must comply with all pre-employment and safety standards.

Working Conditions

Mix office and field work in variable weather and terrain. Extended periods of walking or standing required. Occasional after-hours or emergency response work. Must be comfortable with overnight trips in remote areas.

Hours of Work

Regular hours of work will be from 8:00am - 4:00pm for 7 hours per day from Monday to Friday up to 35 hours per week. It is expected that all work will be completed within your regular working hours, however, you may be required from time to time to work outside your normal hours of work.

Indigenous Commitment Statement

"Nak'azdli Whut'en is committed to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive work environment that reflects the values, traditions, and aspirations of Indigenous peoples. We actively encourage and prioritize applicants from First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities to apply. We recognize the importance of cultural knowledge and experience, and we honor and respect Indigenous ways of knowing and being."

Application Instructions

Nak'azdli Whut'en offers the opportunity to lead with purpose and create meaningful change for our community. As the

Guardian Coordinator

you will have the chance to shape the future, empower a talented team, and build a legacy that reflects our values and aspirations. If this aligns with your career goals, we encourage you to apply directly through our job posting. You can also send us an email with your resume, cover letter and three references at jobs@nakazdliwhuten.ca