About Us

Whitefish River First Nation is a vibrant and close-knit community committed to strengthening its governance, culture, and people. They are dedicated to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and culturally grounded workplace that supports the well-being of their community/band members and employees.

Position Summary:

The Economic Development Officer (EDO) plays a crucial role in providing value-added business development support services to Whitefish River First Nation entrepreneurs interested in starting or expanding their businesses. This role also contributes to projects based in the WRFN territory that will impact regional economic development, support entrepreneurial opportunity and capacity, and perform other related duties, thereby making a significant difference in the community.

Key Responsibilities:

- The EDO plays a crucial role in the development and implementation of the long-term economic development strategy in accordance with the Economic Development Strategic Action Plan.
- The EDO is instrumental in supporting employment and training initiatives for WRFN members by identifying, creating, and sharing job opportunities, coordinating with industry partners, and helping to set up training programs that build skills and capacity for current and future employment opportunities.
- Deliver presentations to businesses, developers, industry associations, site selection consultants, and businesses, and opportunities for investment in the community.
- Builds and maintains relationships with government agencies, private sector partners, and other stakeholders.
- Conducts research and analysis on economic trends, funding opportunities, and business development initiatives.
- Providing opportunities for WRFN entrepreneurs to learn about the requirements of starting and running a business.

Qualifications:

- Post-secondary education in economic development, business, commerce,



land-use planning, marketing, public administration, or a related field.
- Certificate in Economic Development and/or professional accreditation from the Economic Developers Association of Canada (Ec. D) is considered an asset.
- Experience working in economic development, business development, investment attraction, land use planning, development, or related field, experience in First Nation, municipal government, or broader public sector workplace considered an asset.
- Understanding and appreciation of Whitefish River’s economic development sectors and how they relate to the First Nations' strategic goals.
- Possess a demonstrated knowledge of business development.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact professionally and effectively.
- Knowledge of funding programs, grant writing, and proposal development.
- Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office, contact management, and social media knowledge.

**Upon hire, the successful candidate must submit a Police Criminal Reference Check. ** **

Application Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Interested applicants must submit a current resume, cover letter, two (2) work-related references, one (1) character reference, along with applicable education diplomas/certifications to:

CONFIDENTIAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

c/o Human Resources

Whitefish River First Nation

17-A Rainbow Ridge Road, P.O. Box 188; Birch Island, ON P0P1A0

Email applications can be emailed to [email protected]

At Whitefish River First Nation, we value diversity and inclusion. Miigwetch to all who apply; however, only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $52,160.00-$62,280.00 per year

Benefits:

- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision care

Work Location: In person

📌 Economic Development Officer (Birch Island)
🏢 Whitefish River First Nation
📍 Birch Island