Oceans / Marine Stewardship

Job Title: Marine and Guardian Programs Manager
Employment Type: Contract
Organization: Gwawaenuk Tribe

• Location: Hybrid: Port Hardy / Remote. Qualified candidates must reside on, or be willing to relocate to, Vancouver Island (North Island preferred).
• Deadline: Until filled
• Salary: $70,000-$100,000 (based on experience and qualifications)
• Hours: 0.8 Full-Time Equivalent (up to 30/hours week)

Position Summary

Gwawaenuk Tribe is seeking an experienced Program Manager to develop and lead our Marine Guardian programs, and to train members in a range of Guardian-related tasks and skills. This is a contract position. The ideal candidate will have proven experience developing, managing, and coordinating Marine Guardian programs in remote areas. Preference will be given to candidates with graduate training in marine biology or marine sciences.

Gwawaenuk is an anti-finfish farm Tribe with zero tolerance for open-net pen salmon farming in or around Gwawaenuk Territory. A thorough understanding of the negative impacts affecting wild salmon on the BC coast is essential. Applicants must share Gwawaenuk Tribe’s passion for protecting wild salmon and cetaceans within Gwawaenuk Territory.

Preference will also be given to applicants with strong knowledge of Kwakwaka’wakw traditional marine foods and practices.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess most, if not, all of the following qualifications:

• Resident of, or willing to relocate to, Vancouver Island (ideally North Island).
• 5+ years of experience working on BC coastal marine issues.
• Graduate degree in marine biology, biology, marine sciences, or an equivalent field.
• 5+ years of project management experience, including managing staff, budgets, and multiple projects simultaneously.
• 5+ years of experience working with BC First Nations organizations or communities.
• Strong intergovernmental, NGO, and academic networking and relationship-building skills.
• Experience training First Nations participants one-on-one, and in group and/or field settings.
• Experience working in remote communities, sites, and field-camp environments.
• Experience boating on the BC coast and possession of a small vessel license/certification (or willingness to obtain one).
• Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License.
• Fundraising skills, including experience preparing successful funding applications.
• Strong interpersonal, oral, written, computer, and communication skills.
• Strong skills using ArcGIS.
• Strong attention to detail and proficiency in information management, research, analysis, and tracking.
• Strong report-writing and presentation skills (or willingness to take training).
• Demonstrated ability to work with sensitive and confidential information and follow First Nations protocols.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and respectful in fast-paced and stressful environments.
• Flexible working style, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively (including in remote/virtual settings).

Responsibilities

• Develop and design the Gwawaenuk Guardian Program, including program structure, policies, and operational plans.
• Identify, pursue, and apply for funding to support the Marine and Guardian Programs.
• Lead the development of Gwawaenuk marine project priorities and annual work planning.
• Secure funding to support program operations and personnel.
• Build and maintain partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and other First Nations to advance marine stewardship goals.
• Oversee monitoring and data collection related to marine ecosystems, species, and habitats, ensuring accurate analysis and reporting.
• Coordinate emergency response efforts for marine incidents (e.g., oil spills, vessel groundings) and maintain preparedness plans.
• Prepare and manage program budgets and work plans, and ensure timely reporting to funders and leadership.
• Represent Gwawaenuk Tribe at meetings with federal, provincial, and regional environmental agencies and partners.
• Ensure Gwawaenuk traditional knowledge and cultural values are meaningfully integrated into marine stewardship practices and policies.
• Prepare reports and present program outcomes to Gwawaenuk leadership, funding agencies, and community members.
• Lead education and outreach initiatives to raise awareness of marine stewardship within the community and beyond.
• Ensure Guardians receive required training and obtain necessary certifications to carry out program duties safely and effectively.

Additional Information / How to Apply

This is a contract position. Interested candidates are invited to apply by submitting a cover letter and resume that outlines their qualifications, knowledge, skills, and abilities to: Hiring@gwawaenuktribe.ca

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Preference will be given to qualified candidates of Indigenous ancestry.

We appreciate all applications; however, only candidates who provide the requested information and meet the minimum qualifications will be considered for this position.

Thank you for your interest in becoming part of the Gwawaenuk Tribe team.