Guardian

About kʷikʷəƛəm (Kwikwetlem) First Nation

kʷikʷəƛəm First Nation are a distinct BC First Nation whose traditional territory centres on the Coquitlam Lake Watershed and the surrounding areas. kʷikʷəƛəm draw our name “Red Fish Up the River” from a run of sockeye salmon that once flourished in the Coquitlam River and Coquitlam Lake prior to the construction of the Coquitlam Dam. Our name reflects the strong connection our people have always had to our lands, and the river and lake at the heart of our traditional territory. The traditional language of the kʷikʷəƛəm people is hənqəminəm, previously Downriver Halkomelem. Our people descended from Elders who were renowned as spirit and winter dancers, skilled canoe builders, and master sturgeon and salmon fishers. The Nation is committed to building a strong, self-governing Nation that honors our rich culture, language, and history and is based on ancient Coast Salish laws and protocols. Today, as in the past, we are guided by the teachings of our ancestors to be stewards and guardians of our lands and water for past, present, and future generations.

Job Summary

kʷikʷəƛəm Guardians are responsible for representing the interests of the Nation at many different types of projects taking place throughout KFN’s Traditional Territory. These duties may include Environmental Guardian work and ensuring that projects are compliant with the Nation’s environmental protection policies and standards. These duties may also include Archaeological Guardian work and actively participating in archaeology fieldwork, representing the interests and values of the Nation in relation to ancestral sites, cultural belongings, and heritage landscapes. Guardians are expected to attend projects, build relationships, participate in research, and produce daily reports on activities throughout the Territory.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and document active projects within KFN’s traditional territory, ensuring archaeological, environmental, and cultural heritage considerations are addressed, and complete detailed daily reports.

• Participate in archaeology assessments as required, including manual excavation and screening, recording, and documentation.

• Support KFN stewardship initiatives and contribute to the preservation of cultural and natural resources.

• Notify the KFN Environmental Project Lead or Archaeology Manager (as appropriate) of any activities or developments that fall outside the scope of approved work.

• Collaborate with other Nations, consultants, and contractors to ensure project compliance with heritage and environmental standards.

• Follow all safety procedures and protocols, including those related to fieldwork in rugged terrain, river and lake environments, and active construction sites.

• Assist in maintaining project equipment and field supplies, ensuring readiness and safety for all assignments.

• Participate in training and professional development activities related to archaeology, heritage management, ecology, environmental protection, and field safety.

• Contribute to community engagement initiatives, supporting awareness and understanding of KFN cultural heritage.

• Identify potential risks or hazards during fieldwork and recommend mitigation measures to the Heritage Manager.

• Duties and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, those outlined above and may be adjusted as needed to meet the operational and safety requirements of KFN projects.

Work Conditions and Safety Compliance

• This is a field-based position that requires work in varied and potentially hazardous environments, including rugged terrain, river and lake areas, and active construction sites.

• The role involves monitoring construction activities and interacting with contractors and consultants, where adherence to safety protocols is critical.

• Employees must be able to safely perform physically demanding tasks in all weather conditions and follow all safety procedures and regulations.

• The successful candidate may be required to participate in safety screenings or assessments in accordance with organizational policy and applicable law.

• Due to the safety-sensitive nature of this role, the successful candidate may be required to participate in postincident or other project-specific safety-related drug and alcohol screening in accordance with KFN’s policies and applicable law.

Education, Experience and Qualification

• Some post-secondary education in the fields of archaeology/anthropology, environmental sciences, Indigenous Studies, or comparable professional experience, is required.

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with proponents, contractors, and other stakeholders.

• Proficient with computers and digital tools, including email and handheld devices used in fieldwork.

• Dependable, motivated, and demonstrates a strong work ethic.

• Shows initiative, adaptability, and works effectively as part of a team.

• Demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting the cultural heritage and environmental integrity of KFN territory.

• Comfortable working outdoors in varied and potentially rugged environments.

• Works effectively with team members and stakeholders to achieve shared goals.

• Builds and maintains positive, respectful working relationships.

• Maintains focus and motivation in challenging environments.

• Responds professionally to the needs of internal and external stakeholders.

• Demonstrates honesty, openness, and ethical behavior in all interactions.

Other Requirements

• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License.

• Reliable personal vehicle and ability to arrive at pre-determined project meeting locations at specified time.

• Overtime, weekend, and evening work as may be required from time to time.

• Satisfactory criminal record check.

About the Rewards

In exchange for your hard work and dedication, you will be rewarded with a competitive salary based on your experience and education. After successfully completing a three-month probationary period, you will be eligible for a comprehensive employee benefits package that includes:

• Extended Health, Dental, Vision benefits, Short-Term, Long-Term and Life Insurance

• Family and Employee Assistance Program

• Registered Pension plan with an employer match

This is a great opportunity to contribute at an exciting time of growth and change within the Kwikwetlem Nation and to be a part of a team that creates a place that supports growth and promotes the values of the Kwikwetlem people. If this opportunity matches your values, education, and experience, please send a cover letter and CV/resume to [email protected].

We thank all applicants for their interest; however only short-listed candidates will be contacted.