Lands Manager in Chilliwack

Sqwá First Nation – Lands Manager (Full-Time, Permanent)

Sqwá First Nation is seeking a dedicated and experienced Lands Manager to lead the implementation of the SFN Land Code and support effective land governance on Sqwá Lands.

Under the direction of the Acting Director of Lands Governance, the Lands Manager will oversee land transactions, property rights, environmental stewardship, policy and law development, community engagement, and Lands-related planning.

The successful candidate will also support the Lands Advisory Committee, Chief & Council, and community members while managing the day-to-day operations of the Lands Department, supervising staff, and providing technical and strategic support on Lands-related matters.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Land Code Implementation
• Review, interpret, and ensure compliance with Land Code requirements related to land transactions on Sqwá Lands.
• Develop and update laws, policies, and procedures in accordance with the Land Code.
• Facilitate land transactions, including surveys, transfers, leases, licenses, and permits.
• Provide administrative and planning support to the Lands Advisory Committee.
• Manage land interests and support Lands-related governance and decision-making.
• Support environmental management, stewardship, and protection of cultural and natural resources.
• Provide technical advice and support to the Acting Director and Chief & Council on Lands matters.
• Support the implementation of Lands-related strategic objectives.
• Collaborate with internal departments to advance shared community objectives.
• Lands & Stewardship Departmental Management
• Support departmental budgeting, reporting, grant applications, and administrative processes.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date Lands records and information systems.
• Supervise, train, mentor, and support Lands Department staff, including work planning and performance management.
• Community Engagement & Relationship Building
• Lead, organize and attend community engagement events, including community meetings, family meetings, individual meetings and interviews.
• Document, analyze, interpret and report on community-identified needs, issues, opportuni-ties, priorities, threats, etc., as it relates to Lands and Land Code implementation.
• Build and maintain respectful relationships with community members, building trust and confidence in the Department.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary degree in Environmental Sciences, Land or Urban Planning, Natural Resources, or a related discipline is preferred.

A suitable combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

• Certificate in Lands Management through NALMA or First Nations Applied Lands Management through Tulo is considered an asset.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in Land Code implementation, First Nation Land Registry systems, the Indian Act, or other land management systems is preferred.
• Experience in a similar management role within a First Nation or other organization is considered an asset.
• Experience with community engagement and relationship building, preferably within a First Nation or Indigenous community.
• Previous experience supervising, mentoring, and evaluating staff is strongly preferred.
• Experience working in a legal environment related to Lands is an asset.
• Strong communication, facilitation, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong strategic planning, project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with grant writing, budgeting, and managing funding and contribution agreements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Outlook, Share Point, Xyntax, and other industry-standard software.
• Ability and willingness to manage difficult conversations and high‑tension situations related to Lands and community matters.
• Knowledge of Stóō culture, traditions, and language is considered a strong asset.
• Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s Licence with a satisfactory driving record.
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check is required.
• Willingness and ability to travel occasionally for meetings, conferences, and community events.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced and unpredictable environment.

Sqwá First Nation is an inclusive and equitable organization and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities.

Preference will be given to candidates of Indigenous ancestry (Pursuant to Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code).

Compensation & Work Schedule

• Status: Full-Time, Permanent
• Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, with some evenings and weekends required
• Location: Sqwá First Nation, Chilliwack, BC
• Reports To: Acting Director of Lands Governance
• Professional Development

Sqwá First Nation encourages lifelong learning and supports employees in pursuing professional development opportunities.

Additional training may be provided or required to ensure employees' skills continue to meet current and future organizational needs.

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