Do you thrive at the intersection of ecology and Indigenous knowledge? Are you passionate about restoring, conserving, and enhancing ecosystems? ʔAkisq̓nuk First Nation (″AFN″) is looking for a Terrestrial Biologist to help us protect and manage our lands and wildlife for generations to come. Reporting to the Lands and Environment Manager, this role will be a key player in implementing wildlife and environmental co-management strategies. You'll help steward AFN’s territory through population and ecosystem monitoring, biodiversity projects, traditional use practices, and restoration and conservation initiatives.
This role is ideal for someone who’s equally at home in the field and in front of a computer—designing studies, analyzing environmental data, writing technical reports, and collaborating with governments, NGOs, and community members.
ʔAkisq̓nuk First Nation is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation. AFN exists for the Community. Externally, we are here to serve the Community, and internally, we are our own Community, comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values. As a team, through our own roles and departments, the AFN Organization works together to achieve our strategic plan “Our Thinking” and continue to progress and move our community forward.
Job Type: This is a full-time role working 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday.
The primary responsibilities include:
Strategic & Collaborative
- Bridge Indigenous knowledge and Western science to shape innovative conservation strategies
- Work cross-culturally with a strong appreciation for traditional land stewardship
- Collaborate with the Lands and Resources team and support various infrastructure and resource projects
- Assist with organizing field work including coordinating equipment and staff needed
- Contribute to strategic planning and visioning for long-term environmental goals
Technical & Scientific
- Design and execute monitoring programs and mitigation plans
- Lead environmental field work including terrestrial animal, bird, and ecological surveys within ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa
- Conduct statistical analysis and apply habitat/population models and human dimensions theory to wildlife management
- Obtain and manage permits and licenses required for project work
- Oversee contractors utilized for biological surveys and environmental monitoring
- Act as QEP/Environmental Monitor on sites as required, monitor environmental impact and industry compliance of development and construction projects
Reporting & Engagement
- Prepare detailed technical reports, work plans, and funding summaries
- Deliver expert advice to leadership and stakeholders
- Participate in multi-sector meetings, working groups, and public consultations
- Provide input into land use and development planning
- Support grant writing and contribute to funding proposals
Qualifications:
Essential:
- A degree in Biology or related discipline - Environmental Science, Conservation Science, Natural Resources, etc.
- Registered Professional Biologist (RP Bio) in B.C. with the College of Applied Biology (CAB) or eligible within 6 months – ability to transfer designation from another Province would also be considered.
- Experience and knowledge of relevant provincial and federal acts, regulations, policies, and procedures (e.g. BC Wildlife Act, BC Forest and Range Practices Act, BC Land Act, Species at Risk Act, Migratory Birds Convention Act).
- Minimum 2 years of experience in fieldwork, proposal preparation, and reporting.
- Proficiency with data management, mobile data collection, and statistical analysis
- Experience with Indigenous communities and/or integrating traditional knowledge into scientific practice.
- Expertise in environmental monitoring, data analysis, and project coordination.
- Excellent technical writing, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- A passion for land, wildlife, and ecosystem conservation.
Preferred:
- Proficiency with GIS, ArcMap, or other mapping/modelling software
- Experience with permitting process
- Experience with radio telemetry and/or collaring
- Experience with camera traps
What we offer:
- Competitive pay ($70,000 to $79,000 per year depending on education and experience)
- 3 weeks’ annual vacation, plus paid sick days
- Discretionary office closure between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, as determined by the Council each year
- Employer-paid Group Benefits which includes Life Insurance, Health and Dental benefits, Employee and Family Assistance Program, Disability, available after 3 months of service
- Matched RRSP program with employer matching up to 5.5% of the employee’s salary, available after 4 months of service
- Live and work in the most beautiful place in British Columbia
ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals. In accordance with our commitment to reconciliation and employment equity, preference may be given to qualified candidates who self-identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. We encourage Indigenous applicants to self-identify in their application.
