Halalt is Hiring a Biologist

 To request the full job description, or apply please contact: melissa.evans@halalt.org 

Closing Date: Sept 3rd, 2024

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Halalt First Nation (HFN)’s Natural Resources Department is seeking a full-time Biologist to support the Nation’s participation in the Salish Sea Initiative, freshwater stock assessment, and related projects within its traditional territory. 

HFN is a small indigenous community near Chemainus, BC, with a traditional territory encompassing mid-Vancouver Island, the Salish Sea, and the Fraser River area. HFN and its staff work closely with other Quw’utsun Nation communities (Cowichan Tribes, Penelakut Tribe, Lyackson First Nation, Stz’uminus First Nation) to develop, coordinate, and implement regionally-important environmental monitoring and stewardship programs. 

The Biologist will support the development and implementation of monitoring and restoration activities in the Chemainus River estuary and assist with other environmental monitoring and restoration efforts within HFN traditional territory. Responsibilities will include program planning/development, field survey implementation, meeting participation, communication with leadership, technician supervision, and community engagement. 

The ideal candidate will have prior experience leading complex biological projects in aquatic (freshwater, estuarine, and marine) environments, experience working with indigenous communities, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Preference will be given to Indigenous candidates. 

 Key Duties and Responsibilities 

• Support HFN in the development and implementation of monitoring plans for water quality, bivalve/shellfish populations, terrestrial and aquatic plants and fish populations in marine, estuarine, and riverine environments; 

• Develop and manage funding proposals and budgets; 

• Work with First Nations and other levels of government on collaborative program implementation; 

• Develop and manage subcontracts and contractors; 

• Operate and maintain vessels, monitoring equipment (e.g., traps, sonar units), and vehicles in support of field programs; 

• Assist with technician supervision, training, and coordination; 

• Represent HFN at symposia, meetings, conferences; 

• Assist with community meetings, elder and youth engagement initiatives, interviews, and outreach; 

Assist in responding to inquiries from membership related to Departmental programs. 

Reporting/Communication Expectations 

• Complete program (monthly, annual) and technical reports; 

• Communicate and coordinate with Department Manager and other HFN staff on program implementation/progress; 

• Report activities at community and staff meetings, as needed. 

Position Terms 

● Full-time; 35 hours per week; 

● Anticipated schedule is Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm; some flexibility is required depending on program operations; 

● Compensation: $70,000 – $80,000/year (dependent on education and experience); a comprehensive benefits package, including extended health benefits, EAP, and employer RRSP match, is available following the successful completion of a 90-day probationary period. 

If you are interested in this position, please send your resume, cover letter, and the contact information of two references to: melissa.evans@halalt.org Note - applications received without a cover letter will not be considered.