Economic Development Officer

Position Summary

The Economic Development Officer supports the identification, development, and advancement of economic opportunities for Cheslatta Carrier Nation (CCN). Working under the direction of the Senior Policy Advisor, the Economic Development Officer researches and analyzes economic development prospects, supports CCN’s business entities and partnerships, assists with project planning and implementation, and builds relationships with industry, government, and community partners to advance CCN’s economic and business goals. This role works in collaboration with the senior administrative staff and in concert with Chief and Council. The role contributes to a strong, self‑reliant economic future for the Cheslatta community.

Key Responsibilities

Economic Development Research & Analysis

Research and analyze economic development opportunities relevant to CCN, including forestry, marine services, tourism, mineral exploration, energy, and other sectors consistent with CCN’s strategic priorities.

Prepare business cases, feasibility assessments, briefing notes, and reports to support Council and Senior Policy Advisor decision‑making.

Monitor industry trends, government procurement, and funding opportunities with potential relevance to CCN’s economic development program.

Business & Project Support

Support the operational oversight and performance monitoring of CCN’s business entities, including Pondosy Bay Resort, Cheslatta Forestry, Cheslatta Marine Services, Danskin Garage, and other CCN enterprises.

Assist with the planning and implementation of new economic development projects and partnerships, including industrial, tourism, and infrastructure initiatives.

Support procurement and contracting processes related to economic development projects.

Track project milestones, deliverables, and outcomes and prepare progress reports for the Senior Policy Advisor, General Manager and Chief and Council.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Relations

Support the development and maintenance of relationships with industry partners (including Rio Tinto), major commercial or industrial projects, provincial and federal government agencies, and neighbouring Nations.

Assist with the implementation of partnership agreements, including the New Day Agreement with Rio Tinto and the Chickimin Bay Portage contract with BC Parks.

Represent CCN at economic development meetings, industry tables, and community forums as directed by the Senior Policy Advisor. Coordinate with the Senior Policy Advisor and General Manager on matters involving external relations, negotiations, and strategic initiatives.

Community & Member Employment

Promote economic development opportunities and employment pathways for Cheslatta members.

Liaise with the General Manager, Education & Training Department to support member training and employment readiness connected to CCN’s economic activities.

Support the development of member employment strategies in partnership with CCN business entities.

Administration

Maintain accurate records of economic development activities, agreements, and correspondence.

Assist the General Manager with grant applications and funding proposals related to economic development.

Prepare departmental reports for the Senior Policy Advisor as required.

Qualifications

Education

Post‑secondary education in business administration, economics, Indigenous economic development, natural resource management, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Training or certification in project management or business development is an asset.

Experience

Experience (typically 3–5 years) in economic development, business development, project coordination, or a related role, preferably within a First Nations or Indigenous context.

Demonstrated experience preparing business cases, research reports, or feasibility analyses.

Experience working with industry and/or government partners on economic projects.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of First Nations economic development principles, including Indigenous business ownership, revenue diversification, and community benefit models.

Understanding of key industry sectors relevant to CCN, including forestry, marine services, tourism, and natural resources.

Strong analytical, research, and report‑writing skills.

Effective interpersonal and relationship‑building skills.

Commitment to the economic well‑being and self‑reliance of the Cheslatta community.

Knowledge of Dakelh (Carrier) language and culture is a significant asset.

Working Conditions

Full‑time, generally Monday to Friday; hours may vary based on project requirements.

Travel within BC may be required to attend meetings and project sites.

Operates from the CCN office, Danskin, BC.

Annual salary as set out in the Employment Agreement, reviewed periodically.

Participation in CCN’s standard employee group benefit plan, subject to plan terms.

Vacation entitlement in accordance with CCN’s Vacation Policy.

How to ApplY

Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, résumé, and three professional references to:

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 909, Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0

Phone: View phone number on ca.talent.com

This position will remain open until filled. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply at their earliest opportunity. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. We thank all applicants for their interest in Cheslatta Carrier Nation.

This job description reflects the general duties and responsibilities of the position and is not an exhaustive list. Duties may be amended from time to time consistent with the incumbent’s qualifications and CCN’s operational requirements.