Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Manager, Planning & Development, the Planner III: tmxʷúlaʔxʷ Environment plays a key leadership role in the development, implementation, and oversight of environmental planning initiatives that promote responsible land use, cultural stewardship, and environmental protection within Westbank First Nation (WFN).
This position is responsible for advancing strategic environmental planning goals in alignment with WFN’s Comprehensive Community Plan, Land Use Law, and sustainable development frameworks. The Planner III works collaboratively with internal departments, community members, and external partners to ensure that WFN lands and resources are managed in a way that respects traditional values while supporting community growth and ecological integrity.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, Planning, Environmental Studies, Natural Resource Management, or a related field
• Membership or eligibility for Membership in the College of Applied Biology of BC or Canadian Institute of Planners
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental planning, sustainability, land use planning, or related field
• Experience in a First Nation community setting is an asset
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered

REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check with results acceptable to WFN
• A valid BC driver’s license is required
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Develops and coordinates the sustainability and environmental planning program for Westbank First Nation in consultation with internal stakeholders, local authorities, senior governments and non-government agencies
• Conducts, supports and reviews environmental assessments for various projects which involves assessing the potential effects of proposed developments or land-use changes on the environment, including air, water, wildlife and ecosystems and traditional ecological knowledge
• Develops strategies and recommendations to mitigate environmental impacts and ensures compliance with environmental laws and regulations
• Collaborates on the creation and update of land use plans that incorporate environmental sustainability. This includes zoning, subdivision, development plans, and determining appropriate land uses that balance development needs with environmental preservation
• Work collaboratively with community members to protect and steward the tmxʷúlaʔxʷ (land) in alignment with Syilx values, ensuring sustainable land use practices that respect the cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance of the territory
• Ensures that projects and developments comply with WFN and related environmental laws and regulations
• Oversees environmental planning projects from initiation to completion, including setting timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and project managing contracts and consultants
• Collaborates with a range of professionals such as engineers, architects, ecologists, and environmental scientists to assess and plan for environmental concerns in development projects
• Analyzes environmental data to identify trends, assess risks, and inform decision-making processes related to land use and development projects
• Provides regular reports on environmental performance, progress, and any issues or risks related to ongoing projects or developments
• Coordinate the collection and distribution of mapping data associated with environmentally sensitive areas and liaise with the public, development community and senior government staff regarding the protection of environmentally sensitive areas
• Provide functional direction to department staff relative to environmental planning and related land use issues
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies, standards, and procedures, and as assigned by the Manager, Planning & Development.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Ability to work independently with sound judgment and initiative in managing complex planning and environmental projects, while also collaborating effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Strong decision-making skills, including the ability to analyze diverse information, balance competing priorities, and develop practical, solutions-oriented recommendations in alignment with organizational goals
• Strong knowledge of first nation, federal, provincial, and local environmental laws, regulations, and policies
• Awareness of and respect for Indigenous perspectives, with the ability to consider and support the integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) alongside western science in environmental assessments, planning processes, and evaluations
• Knowledge of environmental science principles, including ecology, climate change, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem management from a first nations perspective
• Familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software, Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), Environmental Management Plans, and planning tools used to evaluate land use and environmental impacts
• Ability to resolve environmental design issues and work effectively in a public oriented and collaborative working environment while delivering high quality customer service
• Demonstrates a high degree of confidentiality in interpersonal interaction
• Working knowledge of the history of colonization in Canada and its ongoing impact on modern issues affecting Indigenous Peoples
• Working knowledge in communicating with Indigenous Peoples, demonstrating sensitivity and empathy, and awareness of how language choices can influence and impact conversations

The median salary for this position is $88,037

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at https://www.wfn.ca.

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday, October 5, 2025

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.