Hybrid Treaty Rights Protected (TRP) Engagement Facilitator na Union of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq

Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq –
Employment Opportunity

 Membertou, Nova Scotia

Title:                           Treaty Rights Protected (TRP) Engagement Facilitator

Description:     The Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq is seeking a passionate and organized Treaty Rights Protected (TRP) Engagement Facilitator that will serve as a key bridge between Mi’kmaq harvesters, community leadership, and fisheries governance structures. This position is vital in upholding Mi’kmaw inherent and treaty-protected fishing rights by ensuring open communication, active participation, and ongoing consensus-building within the community.

As the Treaty Rights Protected TRP Engagement Facilitator, the primary focus is to promote awareness and understanding of the TRP fishery, foster trust and transparency, and ensure that management decisions reflect the perspectives and priorities of Mi’kmaq harvesters. They are responsible for engaging directly with community members through culturally appropriate dialogue and community-building approaches rooted in Mi’kmaw values, especially Netukulimk—a principle that emphasizes sustainable and respectful resource use for present and future generations.

This is a hands-on, community-facing role that supports both the daily operations and long-term vision of the Mi’kmaq-led fisheries governance framework.

Key Responsibilities:

• Community Engagement:
  • Host regular meetings and one-on-one discussions with harvesters.
  • Act as a consistent, accessible presence in the community year-round.
  • Facilitate dialogue that allows harvester voices to shape fisheries planning and conservation decisions.
• Consensus Building:
  • Foster understanding and agreement among harvesters and leadership on TRP fishery matters.
  • Support collaborative problem-solving and transparent feedback processes.
• Fisheries Implementation Support:
  • Communicate TRP authorizations, protocols, and updates clearly to harvesters.
  • Collaborate with compliance staff to ensure mutual understanding of rules and expectations.
• Education & Communication:
  • Share accessible updates and educational content on rights-based fishing, safety, and conservation.
  • Distribute newsletters, bulletins, and host learning sessions.
• Feedback Collection & Reporting:
  • Maintain detailed records of engagement activities and community input.
  • Work with the Data Analyst to ensure harvester feedback informs ongoing management.
• Cultural & Rights-Based Advocacy:
  • Promote Mi’kmaw values and stewardship rooted in Netukulimk.
  • Encourage youth and Elder participation and support intergenerational knowledge sharing.

Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of Mi’kmaq culture, values, and the Treaty Rights Protected fishery.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in community engagement or organizing, ideally within Mi’kmaq communities.
• Skilled in mediation and relationship building.
• Dependable, self-motivated, and well-organized.
• Knowledge of fisheries, conservation, or resource management is an asset.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.

Preferred Assets:

• Familiarity with local fishing practices and regional TRP plans.
• Experience working with First Nations leadership or harvesters.

Work Environment:

• Frequent local travel is required.
• Evening and weekend hours may be necessary to support fisher schedules.
• Hands-on, community-centered role focused on building relationships and trust.

Please note that the duties outlined in this job description are not exhaustive and other duties may be required.

Location:                     Membertou, Nova Scotia

Duration:                     Full-time, one-year term position (pending contract renewal)

Supervisor:                 Executive Director 

Closing Date:               Posted until filled

Only potential candidates considered will be contacted for interviews. Personal suitability will also be considered during the hiring process. UNSM hires based on merit and is committed to employment equity. We encourage all qualified persons to apply; however, qualified Aboriginal applicants will be given priority in accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preference policy of the Canadian Human Rights Commission.

Disclaimer:

The Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq reserves the right to refuse all applications for employment at any time during the hiring process