Job Posting: Fisheries Biologist
Job Type: Full-time (35 hours/week)
Temporary: Ends March 31, 2027 (extension will depend on funding)
Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 – 4:30, flexible and possibility for hybrid
Location: Campbell River, BC
We are Xwémalhkwu, or Homalco, and we are known as “the people of the rapid-running waters”. Our connection to our lands and waters forms part of our identity and informs our responsibility to our lands, waters, and people. We have lived in concert with our natural surroundings for millennia in Bute Inlet, the Discovery Islands and Campbell River.
JOB SUMMARY
Developing Our Connection to Fish, Marine and Aquatic Resources within Homalco Territory The χʷɛmaɬkʷu First Nation is seeking a motivated and collaborative Fisheries Biologist to support a Treaty Related Measures Project - Developing Our Connection to Fish, Marine and Aquatic Resources within χʷɛmaɬkʷu Territory.
This project is focused on advancing fisheries science and traditional knowledge to inform future treaty negotiations. Working closely with the χʷɛmaɬkʷu Guardians, technical staff, leadership, and partner organizations, the successful candidate will compile, analyze, and communicate fisheries information to help characterize the abundance, distribution, and future management of aquatic and marine resources within χʷɛmaɬkʷu Territory.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful work at the intersection of fisheries science, Indigenous stewardship, and resource management. It also provides a unique opportunity to contribute to long-term fisheries stewardship while helping build the technical foundation that will support Homalco First Nation's future treaty negotiations and fisheries planning.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Compile, organize, and analyze fisheries, habitat, and environmental data from a variety of sources.
- Support the identification and characterization of aquatic and marine species of importance to the χʷɛmaɬkʷu First Nation.
- Assist in identifying and mapping salmon-bearing watersheds and opportunities for future habitat restoration and enhancement.
- Compile available stock assessment information for salmon and other marine and freshwater species.
- Support the assessment of current and future food, social, and ceremonial fisheries needs.
- Work collaboratively with χʷɛmaɬkʷu Guardians to incorporate field observations and monitoring information into project deliverables.
- Liaise with government agencies, First Nations, researchers, consultants, and other partners to gather relevant technical information.
- Assist with GIS mapping, spatial analysis, and the preparation of maps and figures.
- Summarize technical information into reports, presentations, and briefing materials suitable for leadership and community engagement.
- Identify potential funding opportunities and assist in the preparation of grant applications, funding proposals, and support technical documentation to advance fisheries stewardship and monitoring initiatives.
- Support community and leadership engagement activities by presenting information in an accessible and culturally appropriate manner.
- Maintain organized project records and databases.
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS: A successful candidate will have various prerequisite skills, including:
- A diploma or degree in Fisheries, Biology, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
- Five (5) years’ experience working with fisheries assessment, fish biology,
aquatic ecology, or fisheries management.
- Experience compiling and interpreting biological, habitat, or environmental datasets.
- Familiarity with stock assessment concepts and fisheries management in British Columbia.
- Experience using GIS software (ArcGIS Pro or QGIS) is considered an asset.
- Experience using Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)
- Strong analytical, organizational, and technical writing skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively with Indigenous communities, government agencies, and technical partners.
- The ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
- Working with Indigenous Nations or Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives.
- Fisheries monitoring, escapement assessment, stock assessment, or habitat restoration.
- Data management and statistical analysis.
- Community engagement and facilitation.
- Knowledge of χʷɛmaɬkʷu Territory and the northern Salish Sea.
We're looking for someone who is:
- Curious and scientifically minded.
- Collaborative and respectful.
- Comfortable working with both technical information and traditional knowledge.
- Passionate about supporting Indigenous stewardship and sustainable fisheries management.
BENEFITS:
- Extended benefits package
- Three weeks’ paid time off for vacation
- Paid time off during Christmas closure (Dec 20 – Jan 4) Aligns with School District 72
- Pension plan and contribution matching available
- Continued learning and development opportunities
TO APPLY Email resume to:
[email protected] with subject line “Fisheries Biologist”
Closing date: August 21, 2026
Pay: $38.00-$44.00 per hour
Benefits
- Casual dress
- Company events
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
📌 Fisheries Biologist (Campbell River)
🏢 Homalco First Nation
📍 Campbell River