Advisor Indigenous Relations

Independent Electricity System Operator

4d•CA$111,072 - CA$158,704•Hybrid

About The Position

The IESO is committed to ensuring Ontario’s electricity system meets the province’s needs today and into the future. This role is within the Indigenous Relations Division, supporting the Supervisor in managing positive relationships with First Nations and Métis communities. The objective is to foster meaningful Indigenous engagement and advance the involvement of Indigenous communities within the energy sector, including areas like power system planning, renewable energy generation, transmission, funding support programs, and conservation initiatives. This position will also support the IESO in engaging with Indigenous communities and fulfilling the Duty to Consult where applicable. The role is based in Toronto and requires travel to Indigenous communities across the Province.

Requirements

6 – 8 years’ of relevant experience in the energy sector with experience in indigenous relations, stakeholder engagement, and policy development.
In-depth knowledge and understanding of Indigenous communities’ history, culture and treaty relationships.
Willingness to build trust-based relationships with Indigenous communities, participating in open exchanges of experiences and culture.
Experience working and building relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations.
Experience with policy development and translation to programs.
A superior level of tact and diplomacy.
Current and up-to-date knowledge of the federal and provincial regulatory and Impact Assessment processes and consultation guidelines in Ontario.
Experience engaging with Indigenous groups in Ontario, and working with representatives and community members to resolve complex and often contentious issues.
Ability to be a team player and work independently to achieve project deliverables.
Strong inter-personal skills and an ability to develop trusted relationships.
Strong research and analytic skills.
Excellent communications skills – both oral and written.
Effective presentation and facilitation skills with the ability to manage large public meetings.
Political acuity.
Use of Microsoft Office.
Valid Class G Driver's License or equivalent as recognized by the Province of Ontario.
Ability to travel to remote field locations frequently and for multiple days.

Nice To Haves

Post-secondary degree in engineering, energy, business, environmental studies, political science or a technical discipline is preferred; a post graduate degree is an asset.
Knowledge of the electricity sector as asset.

Responsibilities

Maintain key contacts and promote ongoing dialogue with Indigenous communities to foster a cooperative and sustainable working relationship.
Develop an in-depth understanding of the issues and key priorities of Indigenous communities and support their resolution within the IESO.
Provide sound advice/guidance/information to Indigenous communities related to power system planning, power purchase agreements, Indigenous support programs, and conservation programs.
Provide expert guidance to IESO’s other client groups in the development of provincially funded programs intended to assist Indigenous communities in developing renewable energy generation, transmission and conservation initiatives and programs.
Provide analytic and research expertise related to partnership and economic development initiatives with Indigenous communities across multiple jurisdictions to inform program development.
Provide communications and training initiatives for IESO staff to build internal awareness of Indigenous issues and interests.
Develop and maintain relationships with various government ministries and agencies, including (but not limited to) the Ministries of Energy and Mines, Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, Environment, Conservation and Parks, Natural Resources and Forestry; Hydro One and private transmitters; and with OPG and private generators.
Provide support in the Indigenous Relations program areas in a rapidly evolving legal and social context to deliver sustainable and responsible business results.
Participate in industry and Indigenous forums to enhance the sharing of best practices and lessons learned, and be viewed as a subject matter expert.
Prepare reports and correspondence and make presentations as required internally and externally in support of the Supervisor.
Assist the Supervisor in the IESO’s annual First Nations Energy Symposium.
Travel to Indigenous communities throughout Ontario.
Work collaboratively with Indigenous communities to support activities related to the development of renewable energy generation, transmission and conservation.
Provide support to the Supervisor when the IESO is undertaking engagement and relationship-building initiatives with Indigenous communities.
Act as an ongoing source of expertise and a conduit between IESO and Indigenous communities as it relates to the broad mandate of the IESO.
Lead the execution of engagement in line with the IESO’s Indigenous Peoples Policy.
Monitor, analyze and communicate emerging issues, risks and opportunities.