Reserve Lands Manager

Job Title: Reserve Lands Manager

Location: Nak’azdli Whut’en Band Administration Office, Fort St. James, BC

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Director of Housing, Capital & Lands

Wage: $62,000 - $85,000 annually, based on experience 

About Us

Nak'azdli Whut'en is a proud Dakelh First Nation located near Fort St. James, British Columbia. Our community is deeply rooted in Dakelh culture, language, and values, emphasizing a connection to the land and a commitment to the well-being of our people. We are dedicated to creating inclusive and supportive services that reflect our culture and respect the unique perspectives and needs of our members. At Nak'azdli Whut'en, we strive to provide community-focused health and social services that uphold Indigenous values and address the distinct challenges facing our community. 

Job Summary

The Reserve Lands Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of lands governance, planning, permitting, and development for Nak’azdli Whut’en. This includes managing lands department staff, preparing and monitoring budgets and work plans, ensuring policy compliance under Nak’azdli Whut’en Land Code, and engaging with community members and external agencies on land-related matters. 

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all facets of reserve lands, governance and administration and day-to-day operations of the lands office.
• Review, interpret and monitor land documents, applications, and permits while ensuring Nak’azdli Whut’en Land Code laws and policies are in compliance.
• Process and register Nak’azdli Whut’en lands instruments.
• Follow through on directives, BCR’s, agreements and other important matters.
• Prepare monthly activity reports and other reports as needed.
• Establish a comprehensive work plan to ensure the Land Code complies with the requirements for clarity and completeness specified in the Framework Agreement and the FNLMA.
• Ensure all Land Advisory Committee members are provided with all resources required to fulfill their role and responsibilities. 
• Work collaboratively with the Reserve Lands Advisory Committee.
• Organize community meetings to inform members about the Nak’azdli Whut’en Land Code and land matters.
• Create and implement a communications strategy around the Land Code, ensuring all stakeholders have accurate and up-to-date information.
• Communicate with Membership, clients, government, suppliers, and the public.
• Attend internal and external meetings with travel required at times.
• Undertake other related duties as may be requested. 

Requirements

• Degree, diploma, or advanced certification in Lands Management or a related field
    5–10 years’ experience in lands management preferred
• Experience in lands administration, permitting, and financial reporting
• Working knowledge of land survey methods, zoning, bylaws, and land classifications
• Strong understanding of the First Nations Land Management Act (FNLMA), Indian Act, and related legislation
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), and mapping/surveying tools
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality
• Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s License and clear Criminal Record Check required 

Work Location

This is a salaried position based on a 40- hour workweek without any overtime eligibility.  Although regular office hours are from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday to Friday, it is expected that you will work the hours needed to complete your work each day.   You may also be required to carry out work on occasion outside of your normal hours of work. 

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced office environment with frequent deadlines
• Attendance at meetings and delivery of presentations
• Regular communication via phone, email, and in-person meetings
• Computer-based work requiring manual dexterity 

Hours of Work:

Regular office hours are 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday (7 hours/day). It is expected that all work will be completed within regular hours, though occasional overtime may be required. Overtime is not permitted without authorization from your manager. 

Benefits

At Nak’azdli Whut’en, our people are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we’re proud to offer a well-rounded total rewards package that promotes your well-being, supports your career growth, and helps you maintain a healthy work-life balance. Our offerings include: 

• Competitive Compensation based on research
• Pension Plan – Employer-matched contributions up to 5.5%, based on program eligibility.
  Work-Life Balance – 10 annual sick days, up to 5 discretionary days for senior leadership, a 2-week paid Christmas break (subject to eligibility and fiscal schedule), and an additional Indigenous statutory holiday.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage – Inclusive of medical, dental, vision, AD&D, life insurance, and global medical benefits (eligibility-based).
• Disability Coverage – Short- and long-term disability support, depending on eligibility.
• Employee Wellbeing – Access to a free Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP), plus in-house mental health counselling.
• Support for Professional Development
• Cultural & Community Engagement Opportunities

We are committed to fostering a workplace where every team member feels respected, empowered, and inspired to grow, because when our people thrive, so does our community.

Indigenous Commitment

“Nak’azdli Whut’en is committed to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive work environment that reflects the values, traditions, and aspirations of our people. We actively encourage and prioritize applicants from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities to apply. We recognize the importance of cultural knowledge and experience, and we honour and respect Indigenous ways of knowing and being.”

 Application Instructions