Position Overview:

The Indigenous Relations Liaison will play a pivotal role in fostering strong relationships between ATCO Frontec, the Artemis Blackwater Gold Mine Project, and the local Indigenous communities including Lhoosk’uz Dené and Ulkatcho First Nations in British Columbia. This role is critical to enhancing Indigenous engagement, working closely with the management and human resources teams, providing advice and guidance to internal stakeholders and Indigenous employees, and fostering relationships with community leaders and partners to solidify community ties.

Key Responsibilities:

Community Engagement:

Act as the primary point of contact between ATCO Frontec and the local Indigenous communities.  Identify, track and monitor all issues, concerns and business interests identified by the Indigenous communities; maintain accurate records on community engagement. Work with the teams to facilitate open and transparent communication and assist with developing strategies for effective conflict resolution. Organize and participate in community meetings, events, and consultations to ensure active involvement of Indigenous communities.

Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity:

Provide expert advice to the team for better understanding of Indigenous history, culture, and protocols that will assist in developing effective and sustainable relationships with Indigenous Peoples and communities. Assist with the development and implementation of wellness programs. Measure the effectiveness of wellness initiatives and ensure continuous improvement, with a focus on the well-being of Indigenous employees.

Employment and Training:

Collaborate with the HR team to develop and implement recruitment strategies that prioritize hiring Indigenous community members. Support the development of customized individual roadmaps for Indigenous employees, including mentorship, training, and skills development programs. Monitor and report on the progress of Indigenous employment and training initiatives. Prepare regular reports on the status of community relations, employment, and training initiatives for the management team.

Project Integration:

Work with the project management team to integrate Indigenous perspectives into project planning, design, and execution. Contribute to the creation and negotiation of agreements and partnerships with Indigenous partners. Ensure that the project aligns with the shared goals and interests of the Indigenous communities and ATCO Frontec.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Indigenous Relations/Studies or a combination of equivalent work and lived experience. Minimum 4-6 years direct experience related to Indigenous Relations. Strong understanding of the Indigenous cultures, traditions, and governance structures of the Indigenous Peoples, FPIC, TRC Calls to Action, and UNDRIP. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with members of the  Indigenous communities. Experience in community engagement, conflict resolution, and project management with Indigenous communities. Ability to work collaboratively with diverse cross-functional internal and external stakeholders. Commitment to promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity. A valid driver’s license is required to travel to the local Indigenous communities. Preference will be given to Indigenous candidates.