Land Guardian

Who We Are

With boundless pride in our ancient cultural heritage and ancestral homelands, we exercise our inherent right to self-government, to take the responsibility for the general welfare of our citizens, and to provide for the good government of our community, lands and resources. We promote wellness, self-sufficiency, and prosperity in our community through cultural teachings and environmental stewardship, and by building and maintaining an accountable government that motivates, inspires, and provides opportunities for the Vuntut Gwitchin.

About the Role

The Land Guardian strives to protect and sustain fish, wildlife, and habitats in the Vuntut Gwitchin Traditional Territory ultimately to support a vibrant traditional economy for VGFN citizens. It collaborates to gather information, maintain equipment, monitor and support land use activities and projects, and conduct meaningful outreach and education for citizens and the public. Its activities have a long-lasting impact on the stewardship of VGFN culture, lands, fish, and wildlife.  

What You Will Do

• Collects and stores information on fish and wildlife harvests and movements by encouraging citizens to submit harvest reports. Interviews individuals to determine harvest numbers and coordinates draws of harvesting equipment to encourage reporting. 
• Observes harvesters and wildlife activity by conducting field patrols to gather and record harvesting information. Receives information from individuals on inappropriate harvesting behaviour on the land. Reports results to the Manager who will report to partner organizations.
• Shares concerns such as poaching and improper harvesting from citizens, residents, and visitors with the manager.
• Supports fish, wildlife, and habitat monitoring and research projects working with government, university, and other partners. Transports equipment and supplies to field camps, receives and ships required materials for projects, and installs and maintains field camps. Collects field data and samples and conducts aerial surveys.
• Reports animal sightings and movement, or changes in land, water or environment that could affect the safety of people and equipment on the land. 
• Educates and informs the public and youth on conservation, harvesting, compliance, and fish and wildlife topics. Coordinates trips on the land, collaborates with the school to deliver educational activities and gives presentations to the public to convey traditional skills and knowledge.  
• Participates to develop departmental plans to sustain fish and wildlife populations. 
• Provides support to the field activities of the Lands branch. Provides logistical assistance to VGFN staff and other partners by accompanying them to remote locations, establish camps, and conduct site inspections.
• Manages the Natural Resource Department’s field equipment by regularly maintaining equipment and machines.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

What You Bring

• Diploma in natural or renewable resource management, land management, environmental studies, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. 
• Experience conducting environmental fieldwork, monitoring and/or data collection in remote settings. 
• Experience engaging with a community to support hunting and fishing activities, outreach etc.  
• Experience using field monitoring equipment, data loggers, GPS etc. 
• Knowledge of resource management, human-wildlife conflict and ecological sustainability principles and practices to support inspections, surveys, and projects.
• An in-depth understanding and deep appreciation for Indigenous People and their history, culture, traditions, and languages.
• Experience working in an Indigenous northern community is an asset.

What We Offer 

• $54.85 - $67.04 per hour/per annum (Based on education and experience)
• Flexible Work Hours: Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation offers flexible working hours. Employees may choose to work 65, 70, 75, or 80 hours biweekly (some guidelines will apply)
• 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

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 and a cover letter to: careers.jouta@mnp.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 First Nations traditional customs and practices.

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