About the Role

The Caribou Coordinator is a part-time position providing administrative and coordination support to Chief & Council, the Executive Director and other Departments to implement political and technical strategies to support the protection of the Porcupine Caribou herd and its habitat. This position also supports other matters affecting the Gwich’in Nation as a whole for the VGFN in alignment with leadership direction and Van Tat Gwich’in values.  Reporting to the Executive Director, some of the responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to;

Vadzaih (Caribou) Advocacy – Leads the planning, coordination and implementation of advocacy initiatives to support the protection of Vadzaih (Porcupine Caribou). Builds and sustains collaborative relationships with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Indigenous governments and federal, territorial and international partners. Monitors current developments, research and policy changes that may impact Vadzaih and integrates this information into strategies and workplans. Supports public education and awareness to promote understanding of the importance of Vadzaih to the Van Tat Gwich’in. Coordinates information sharing amongst technical working group of the Parties of Porcupine Caribou Management Agreement in support of eliciting engagement.

Administrative Support – Provides high-level administrative and coordination support to Chief & Council, the Executive Director and Departments, as appropriate on advocacy initiatives for the Porcupine Caribou including technical support for VGFN representatives on the Gwich’in Steering Committee.

Operations – Supports the planning and delivery of key events, including Vadzaih Choo Drin (Caribou Days) and the Biennial Gwich’in Gathering and reports at and participates in the General Assembly.

Communications and Stakeholder Engagement – Supports the development of formal communications with federal, territorial and First Nation governments and organizations, in collaboration with the Executive. Works closely with Communications staff and external service providers, as may be required, to develop clear and consistent messaging to inform Citizens of Vadzaih matters and initiatives.

Financial – Assists in the development, monitoring and tracking of budgets related to Vadzaih advocacy initiatives and special projects and seeks external funding.

File Management – Maintains organized financial and contract records to support auditing or reporting processes as may be required. Ensures maintenance and confidentiality of the records management system for the VGFN.

What We Offer:

·          Working Hours: 40 hours bi-weekly

·          4% Northern Community Remoteness Allowance for employees residing in Old Crow full-time.

·          4% Northern Travel Allowance for employees residing in Old Crow full-time.

·          4 weeks’ vacation to start plus two weeks paid time off over the Christmas season.

·          A very healthy extended benefits package.

·          10 days sick pay per year.

·          10 days paid special/ personal leave per year.

·          A matched pension plan.

·          Subsidized Housing may be available.

·          Relocation Allowance.

What You Bring:

·        Degree in political science, Indigenous governance/ studies, public administration, environmental studies or a related field is preferred.

·        Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and Outlook) products, Adobe and records management systems.

·        Intimate knowledge of Gwich’in values and harvesting and cultural practices.

·        Ability to conduct electronic/ virtual meetings with internal and external stakeholders.

·        Knowledge of Vuntut Gwitchin Final and Self-Government Agreements and/ or modern treaties in Canada is an asset.

Supporting you along the way:

We believe that a rewarding career is not only good for our employees, but it also leads to better outcomes for our clients, workplace and the community. That’s why we are committed to providing you with a competitive salary, health benefits, and a retirement plan. Beyond compensation, you will have the opportunity to make meaningful connections and work on initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives.

To Apply:

Please send your resume & a cover letter to: jobs@vgfn.ca

In accordance with the Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA, Section 16(1)), hiring preference will be given to Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation Citizens. Following this, preference will be extended to Indigenous candidates, and then to those with experience and knowledge of First Nations customs and practices.

While we appreciate all applications, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted

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