Marine Coordinator

Position Title: Marine Coordinator

Department: Lands and Resources

Reports To: Director, Lands and Resources

Location: Inuvik, Head Office 

Employment Type: Full-time term position (ends March 31, 2029).

PURPOSE

The Marine Coordinator is responsible for supporting projects related to water stewardship and protection within the Gwich’in Settlement Area (GSA). Reporting to the Senior Manager of Lands and Resources, the Marine Coordinator will lead the development of a Gwich’in Marine Program focused on improving marine planning, boating safety, and environmental protection in the Arctic. This position engages with Gwich’in Participants and partners to strengthen Indigenous participation in marine governance and supports the implementation of federal and territorial marine initiatives, including the Oceans Protection Plan.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with Gwich’in communities, Renewable Resources Councils (RRCs), and Designated Gwich’in Organizations (DGOs) to advocate for and safeguard Gwich’in rights, interests, and title in all Transport Canada marine and navigable waters initiatives. 
• Plan, lead, and participate in engagement and consultation activities (e.g., meetings, submissions, discussion groups) to ensure Gwich’in Participants have a meaningful role in marine and navigable waters initiatives. 
• Gather and document Traditional Knowledge and community input related to marine and navigable waters. 
• Communicate and share culturally relevant information about the impacts of proposed marine-related policies, programs, or legislation, and involve Gwich’in knowledge holders in the review process.
• Build and maintain partnerships to support increased Gwich’in involvement in marine and navigable waters governance and safety planning.
• Organize and deliver community training sessions on marine topics such as the Oceans Protection Plan, Transport Canada initiatives, boat safety, and other emerging issues.
• Design and implement initiatives to address marine safety, security, and environmental protection concerns raised by Gwich’in communities.
• Review and provide feedback on technical documents, including frameworks, policy papers, and environmental or safety assessments and conduct targeted research on marine safety, Indigenous marine interests, environmental protection, and regulatory developments.
• Represent the Gwich’in Tribal Council in meetings and consultations with regulators, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.
• Support the development and implementation of the Gwich’in Guardian programs and related community-based monitoring and marine safety programming.
• Maintain detailed records of engagements, feedback received, and actions taken.
• Prepare briefing notes, summaries, reports, and presentations to support internal decision-making and external communications.
• Assist with the development of funding proposals and contribute to strategic planning of marine initiatives within the department.
• Coordinate cultural awareness and/or listening sessions with Transport Canada. 
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Post-secondary education in marine studies, environmental sciences, Indigenous studies, public policy, or a related discipline. A combination of relevant education and work experience may be considered.
• 3–5years of experience in marine, environmental, or Indigenous governance roles, with a focus on consultation, regulatory review, or stewardship.
• Demonstrated knowledge of marine safety, navigable waters governance, and Arctic environmental issues.
• Familiarity with the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement (GCLCA), Indigenous rights, and traditional land and water use practices.
• Experience facilitating consultations or community engagement processes, especially in Northern or Indigenous contexts.
• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License; willingness to travel to remote Gwich’in communities as needed.
• Boating experience or marine safety certifications are considered assets.

In accordance with Section 16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act and our obligations under the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement (GCLCA), preference will be given to qualified GCLCA Participants and Indigenous applicants. We encourage applicants to self-identify in their application if they wish to be considered under this preference.