Advisor, Indigenous and Rural Relations

Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo•Derwent, AB

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The role supports the development and implementation of a comprehensive monitoring program and contributes to the advancement of a Source Water Protection Framework through a reconciliation lens. Working collaboratively across departments and with Indigenous partners, the incumbent will play an essential role in ensuring that environmental stewardship initiatives are culturally informed and aligned with key frameworks such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action.

Requirements

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, leaders, and external contacts.
Interacts in a manner that builds trust, credibility, and rapport.
Proven ability to interpret legislation and regulations.
Leadership, motivational, communications, and facilitation skills that enable collaborative work with staff at all levels.
Written and verbal communication skills that allow to the incumbent inform and advise others clearly.
Problem-solving and negotiation skills.
Must be a self-starter able to work with minimal supervision and direction.
Proficient in various computer applications.
Knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture issues, communities, and protocols.
Sound judgement and ability to maintain confidentiality of material and information.
A valid Class Five (5) Operator’s License is required as incumbent will be required to operate a personal or municipal vehicle for business use on a regular basis.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a public sector environment considered an asset.
Experience advancing region-wide water quality monitoring and Source Water Protection initiatives. with an understanding of reconciliation principles and Indigenous engagement, is considered an asset.
Strong understanding of Alberta water regulatory frameworks, environmental standards, and public health compliance requirements.
Demonstrated experience in municipal water and wastewater systems, infrastructure planning, or regulatory oversight related to essential services.
Ability to build and sustain collaborative relationships with RMWB departments, Indigenous governments, and regional partners to advance shared water and environmental priorities.
Ability to support water monitoring initiatives in collaboration with Indigenous and rural communities, including the respectful inclusion of traditional knowledge and Elders, is considered an asset.
An understanding of reconciliation principles and Indigenous engagement, including The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Assists the Manager with overall program service delivery with direct involvement in daily operations and overall administration.
Researches and assists with the development and implementation of departmental strategies, tools, administrative directives based on best practices for continuous improvement.
Acts as a departmental advisor to provide technical and functional guidance regarding policies, procedures, program implementation, and legislation to management and other staff.
Supports community and Indigenous organizations that benefit the various hamlets and Indigenous communities.
Develops and implements Indigenous engagement policies and strategies.
Works with rural staff to develop appropriate policies, to address current and emerging community issues and to build awareness within the Municipality of the unique relationship and civic responsibility to Indigenous residents.
Coordinates the Municipality’s engagement and communication processes with rural and Indigenous communities and partners.