Job Description

MAAQUTUSIIS HAHOULTHEE STEWARDSHIP SOCIETY

The Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society (MHSS) and the Ahous Business Corporation (ABC) were incorporated by the Ahousaht Hawiih (Hereditary Chiefs), Chief & Council and advisors in 2012 to ensure that the Ahousaht Nation once again retained control over decisions for and about economic development and stewardship in Ahousaht territories. The role of the Society is to exercise stewardship and sustainable management of Ahousaht territorial resources in a way that balances Ahousaht cultural values, ecological integrity, and the social and economic wellbeing of Ahousaht people. The purposes of the MHSS are: to exercise the role of the Hawiih in the stewardship and sustainable management of the Ahousaht Hahoulthee (territories and resources) in accordance with the Ahousaht Hawiih Declaration, including managing the benefits resulting from the development and use of the Hahoulthee for the benefit of the Ahousaht people; to develop research and management capacity to enable effective stewardship and management of the Hahoulthee; to maximize socio-economic opportunities for the Ahousaht community through training, education and employment; and to establish co-operative and productive relationships with governments and third parties where Ahousaht's rights, title and interests are respected. To learn more, visit www.mhssahousaht.ca.

YOUR POSITION WITH MHSS

The Lead Stewardship Biologist and Marine Planner reports to the MHSS Board of Directors and serves as the lead for developing, coordinating and implementing a variety of stewardship programs on behalf of the Ahousaht and in support of the responsibilities of the Ahousaht Hawiih. A key component of this role is coordinating the development and implementation of the Ahousaht Marine Use Plan.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The Lead Stewardship Biologist provides technical information and support to the MHSS Board of Directors by planning, directing and implementing stewardship programs in Ahousaht territories. The programs aim to advance the MHSS purposes around stewardship and sustainable economic development. Stewardship programs may include monitoring and assessing threats to natural and cultural systems, education and youth programming, Guardian program management, and generating important data to inform resource management decision making in both marine and terrestrial spaces. Sustainable economic development programs may include supporting and advancing fisheries, forestry, tourism and other development initiatives as directed by the MHSS Board of Directors. Coordinating the development of a marine use plan to ensure the health of Ahousaht fisheries and watersheds is of primary importance.

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

? Coordinating the development of an Ahousaht Marine Use Plan.

? Managing a marine and freshwater ecosystem monitoring program across Ahousaht territories

? Leading development and implementation of fisheries enhancement and restoration projects in Ahousaht territories.

? Developing and managing an information management program and system to collect and input critical biological and cultural data including use of GIS and the Community Knowledge Keeper (CKK).

? Community food fishery monitoring and supporting the community food fishery.

? Leading relationship with researchers and other partners to ensure adherence to protocols, alignment of initiatives, and other fisheries and restoration operators and societies in Ahousaht territories.

? Supporting the growth and development of sustainable economic development initiatives including in the aquaculture and fisheries sectors.

? Engaging with the Ahousaht community as required.

? Participating in external and other regional stewardship initiatives on behalf of Ahousaht.

? Financial responsibility may include developing and managing a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors, assisting with budget development, and meeting fundraising targets.

? Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.

? Under minimal supervision, makes independent decisions based on analysis, experience and context.

? May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.

? May be required to meet MHSS boat insurance qualification and operate company vessels.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

? Bachelor's degree in an applicable biological or resource management science with a

minimum of 5 years marine resource management experience;

? Experience in working with public and private groups, First Nations, and other government

agencies including Fisheries & Oceans Canada;

? Experience in the analysis and interpretation of biological data;

? Experience in designing, conducting, analyzing, and reporting stock assessment/ fisheries surveys;

? Knowledge of analytical, statistical and stock assessment techniques;

? Ability to prepare and publish reports;

? Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing;

? Demonstrates initiative, good judgment, dependability, flexibility, leadership, reliability.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

? Master's degree in an applicable biological or resource management science;

? Experience with marine use planning;

? Swiftwater Rescue Training Certificate, Marine Emergency Duties (MED), Restricted Operator Certificate (Maritime), and Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP) Certificate -- or a willingness to obtain;

? Knowledge of Ahousaht culture and territories is an asset;

? Experience in training and curriculum design.

Note: This description is not intended to be a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with this position. Duties and responsibilities may evolve as the needs of MHSS and the Ahousaht community change.

HOW TO APPLY

Please send your cover letter and resume to hr@mhssahousaht.ca with "Attention: Lead Stewardship Biologist" in the subject line. Posting closing date is September 19, 2025.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $82,000.00-$95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Paid time off
Ability to commute/relocate:

Tofino, BC: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:

Bachelor's Degree (required)
Work Location: In person