Environment and Remedial Works – Coordinator of Special Projects

Core Functions:

The Coordinator of Special Projects will work in collaboration with the Protected Areas and Conservation Specialist (PACS) and the Parks Canada Agency on the delivery of a feasibility assessment concerning the establishment of a National Marine Conservation Area in Eastern James Bay. The incumbent is also responsible for the development, coordination and monitoring of projects funded through the Contribution Agreement with the Parks Canada Agency.

Functional Responsibilities:

• Develop work plan and coordination of projects for the Feasibility Assessment with the assistance of the PACS, the Parks Canada Agency, the Cree local administration, and Cree Entities when requested or required.
• Ensure compliance with regional and communities’ laws, applicable standards, and established guidelines
• Identify priorities and development of operational plans for various conservation programs, initiatives and projects within Cree communities and entities.
• Collaborate with the Parks Canada project team to ensure effective cooperation on projects and advancement of the feasibility assessment file.
• determine program priorities.
• Organize and manage logistics for community consultations.
• Develop and deliver presentations on protected areas programs and initiatives.
• Collaborate with the Communications team to develop and implement a communication plan related to protected areas.
• Liaise with various Cree Nation Government departments, Cree communities, Cree entities, and the Eeyou Istchee and Eeyou Marine Region Boards to access and implement applicable initiatives and projects.
• Coordinate and complete projects on time and within the appropriate budget and scope.
• Set deadlines, assign responsibilities, monitor and summarize progress of the projects.
• Coordinate and collaborate with key stakeholders in the development of strategies, policies or actions related to projects under the Feasibility Assessment.
• Engage in and/or manage specific research initiatives so as to improve the existing information on cultural, hydrology and wildlife programs.
• Assist in the development of the protected areas network and its management through collaboration and consultations with the communities

Interaction/Communication Responsibilities

• Provide advice, guidance, training and support to communities in relation to the responsibilities at the local level for all matters relating to projects funded through the Feasibility Assessment Contribution Agreement and other funding initiatives.
• Respond to requests for technical support in the evaluation for needs for projects, the review of studies and the preparation and evaluation of documents required for local projects (terms of reference, evaluation of bids, selection of candidates, etc.).
• Liaising with all pertinent internal and external parties to guarantee project advancement, proper management, and coordination with local governments.
• Develop and maintain excellent working relations with Cree communities and organizations, key stakeholders and external consultants, in order to facilitate the development and delivery of programs.

Reporting Responsibilities

• Develop and track budget based on action plans and forecasted project costs.
• Collaborate with the Financial Program Technician (FPT) to monitor all transactions, expenses, invoices, and payments to ensure compliance with financial processes and procedures.
• Assist the FPT to provide regular and accurate progress reports and final reports on approved projects and programs to the PACS.
• Conduct follow-up assessments of all completed activities and evaluate project results.

Managerial Responsibilities

• Supervise and lead direct reports.
• Assist with development of team objectives, as well as individual objectives for direct reports by ensuring that performance is aligned with those objectives. Ensure that supervisors within team are establishing objectives that are in alignment with departmental objectives, in collaboration with the Department Director.
• Identify training needs, recommend solutions, and support training and development.
• Promote ongoing, effective and open communication with employees. Keep staff members informed of decisions that impact them and/or their department.

Other Responsibilities:

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills in area(s) of responsibility.
• Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field.

Experience:

• Three to five years of relevant experience.
• Experience in project management in a northern context. 

Language:

• Fluency in verbal Cree and English.
• Fluency in French is an asset. 

Knowledge and Abilities:

• Good knowledge of project management logistics.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively.
• Proven ability to be discrete and maintain confidentiality.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to coordinate multiple projects.
• Strong judgment and proven ability to problem-solve.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative. 
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and to adapt to a changing environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products.

Additional Requirements:

• Typical office setting where there are no unusual physical demands.
• Willingness to travel Regularly.

The Cree Nation Government may, at its discretion, waive any or all of the aforementioned requirements if a suitable candidate who is a JBNQA beneficiary accepts to follow a training plan determined by the Cree Nation Government as a condition of employment.