Assistant Fisheries Negotiator

Overview

Assistant Fisheries Negotiator Jobs in Delta, Canada at Tsawwassen-First-Nation

The Assistant Fisheries Negotiator supports Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) in implementing and advancing fisheries-related rights and responsibilities under the Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement and Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution.

Reporting to the Manager of Natural Resources and the Fisheries Negotiator, the role participates in fisheries negotiations, supports agreement implementation, reviews policies and regulations, and coordinates fisheries-related work with governments, other First Nations, and rights holders. The Assistant ensures that TFN interests are represented and that fisheries activities align with TFN laws, priorities, and stewardship responsibilities, local businesses, and community partners.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participate in fisheries-related negotiations and engagement processes with
  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO)
  • Province of British Columbia
  • Lower Fraser Fisheries Alliance
  • Other First Nations and regional bodies
• Support preparation for negotiation sessions, including background materials and position summaries.
• Document discussions and track outcomes and commitments.
• Assist with drafting and reviewing fisheries agreements and related documents.

Treaty Implementation Support

• Support implementation of fisheries provisions under the Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement.
• Track commitments and obligations of federal and provincial governments.
• Identify implementation issues and bring them forward to the Manager of Natural Resources.
• Coordinate internal efforts to align TFN fisheries activities with treaty requirements.

Policy and Regulatory Review

• Monitor and review changes to fisheries policies, management plans, and regulations.
• Summarize implications for TFN in clear, accessible formats.
• Provide input to support TFN responses to proposed regulatory or policy changes.
• Assist in the development of TFN policies, procedures, or positions as required.

Technical Coordination

• Work with internal staff and external technical experts to gather information supporting fisheries work.
• Compile and review data related to fish stocks, harvest levels, and habitat conditions.
• Incorporate Tsawwassen knowledge and community perspectives into fisheries work.
• Coordinate technical input for meetings, submissions, and reporting.
• Coordinate Food Fish processing.

Relationship Management

• Maintain positive working relationships with
  • Neighboring First Nations
  • Government agencies
  • Industry and regional stakeholders
• Support communication between TFN leadership, staff, and community on fisheries matters.
• Attend meetings, working groups, and regional forums as required.

Administrative & Reporting

• Prepare briefing notes, reports, and meeting summaries.
• Maintain records of agreements, meeting outcomes, and fisheries-related files.
• Provide regular updates to the Manager of Natural Resources.
• Support responses to emerging fisheries issues.
• Attend, present at, and help coordinate community meetings including Natural Resources Committee Meeting.

Scope of Work

• Food, Social and Ceremonial (FSC) fisheries facilitation and distribution assistance.
• Commercial fisheries access and licensing.
• Fisheries allocation and harvest planning.
• Habitat protection and aquatic ecosystem health.
• Aquaculture and marine activities within TFN territory.

QUALIFICATIONS Education

• Degree or diploma in fisheries, natural resources, environmental studies, public policy, or related field.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in fisheries, natural resources, or related field.
• Experience working with First Nations or Indigenous governments is preferred.
• Experience participating in negotiations or multi-party processes is an asset.
• Familiarity with the Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of fisheries management systems and regulatory processes.
• Understanding of Indigenous rights and treaty-based fisheries.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to review and interpret technical and policy documents.
• Strong organizational and coordination skills.
• Ability to build and maintain working relationships across organizations.
• Ability to…

Title: Assistant Fisheries Negotiator

Company: Tsawwassen-First-Nation

Location: Delta, Canada

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