Restoration Technician

Reports to: Lands Stewardship Manager
Position Location: Chilliwack, BC
Salary: $23.91-$30.29/HR (Based on Education & Experience)
Work Term: Full-time, 1-Year Term (with possible extension)
Start Date: April 1st, 2025

About Us: Skowkale First Nation is a dynamic and forward-thinking community, deeply rooted in the voices and needs of our people. Our strength and success are derived from a strong connection to our culture and community. We are a close-knit organization, where our team members are regarded as family and are continuously supported in their personal and professional growth. This enables us to better serve both our team and the broader community. We gather at least quarterly to celebrate our achievements and rejuvenate, ensuring we remain committed to the important work we do.

Summary: The Restoration Technician will assist in the implementation, management, and monitoring of trail and habitat restoration projects aimed at connecting people with nature and Indigenous culture. This includes a combination of site maintenance, data collection, habitat restoration activities, and public outreach. This position will primarily be outdoors, so you can expect to spend most days outside in all weather conditions.

Responsibilities:

1. Restoration:
   • Assist in the planning, design, and implementation of trail and restoration projects.
   • Conduct field assessments identifying priority areas for restoration and invasive species control.
   • Perform hands-on tasks, including invasive species removal, planting native vegetation, erosion control, and other restoration techniques with hand tools and power equipment.
   • Monitor the progress of habitat restoration projects, including tracking plant growth, wildlife use, and ecological health.
2. Site Monitoring:
   • Collect data on plant species, wildlife sightings, and upload to iNaturalist and other platforms.
   • Maintain accurate and organized field notes, including GPS data and photographic documentation of restoration sites.
3. Community and Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Assist with community outreach programs, including educational workshops, volunteer coordination, and site tours related to habitat conservation efforts.
   • Collaborate with local organizations, landowners, and government agencies to implement restoration projects.
   • Participate in public events and awareness campaigns to promote conservation efforts and the importance of habitat restoration.
4. Administrative Support:
   • Assist in data entry, preparing reports, presentations, and grant applications related to restoration projects.
   • Support logistical planning for restoration initiatives.
5. Health and Safety:
   • Ensure compliance with environmental health and safety standards while working in the field.
   • Use and maintain equipment, tools, and vehicles safely and effectively.
   • Participate in safety training and follow established safety protocols.
   • First Aid/CPR certification is an asset.

Education & Experience:
• A degree/diploma in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, Natural Resource Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Recent field experience in landscaping, habitat management, ecological restoration, wildlife monitoring, or related activities is highly desirable.
• Experience operating power equipment, chainsaw certification, herbicide applicators license, etc. would be assets.
• Previous volunteer or internship experience in conservation or restoration is advantageous.

Skills & Knowledge:
• Knowledge of local native plant, tree, and weed species is important.
• Ability to identify and manage invasive species.
• Understanding of ecological principles and conservation practices.
• Proficiency in data collection, fieldwork, and scientific monitoring techniques.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to take initiative in identifying tasks and prioritizing them in daily schedules.

Physical Requirements:
• Ability to perform outdoor fieldwork in varying weather conditions and terrain for full 7-hour shifts.
• Ability to lift and carry equipment (up to 50 pounds).
• Comfort with walking/hiking for extended periods and working in remote locations.
• Ability to bend over, sit on the ground, kneel, and reach above your head for extended periods of time.

Additional Requirements:
• Valid B.C. Driver’s license and reliable working vehicle & clean Driving Abstract.
• Clear Criminal Record Check.

Working Conditions:
• The position may require extended hours during peak seasons, including evenings and weekends.
• Fieldwork will involve exposure to outdoor elements, including sun, rain, insects, and rough terrain.
• The position may involve working with hazardous materials such as herbicides, power equipment, and machinery for habitat management.
• This position will spend time with other team members but will spend a large amount of time working alone following our Working Alone Policy.

Application: This position is open until filled. We will review applications and select candidates for interviews on an ongoing basis to ensure we find the right individual for the role. We will contact selected candidates directly to schedule interviews.

HOW TO APPLY: Applicants should send a resume and cover letter outlining how they meet the specific requirements of the position to careers@skowkalefn.com.
While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference may be given to candidates of Indigenous ancestry s16(1) CHRA and have knowledge of local First Nations traditional customs and practices.