Policy Analyst

Job No: 267214
Location: Vancouver,BC | Prince George, BC (hybrid/remote)

  • Make a lasting difference to the BCAFN by helping with their growth and development
  • Become a key part of a forward-thinking, inclusive, and diverse team that values every perspective
  • Earn a competitive annual salary of $75,000 - $80,000, negotiable based on experience, plus comprehensive benefits! 

About the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN)

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization representing First Nation citizens in Canada, which includes more than 900,000 people living in 634 First Nation communities and in cities and towns across the country. The BCAFN is one of ten regional organizations affiliated with the National AFN whose members include 634 First Nations across Canada

The Regional Chief provides the political leadership and activities for the BCAFN, and is elected to this role by the BC First Nations Chiefs for a term of three years. BCAFN is further governed by a Board of five directors, elected to three-year staggered terms. Each board member is a Chief or designate for their First Nation community. BCAFN hosts a Special Chiefs Assembly and an Annual General Assembly every spring and fall which allow for BC First Nations leadership to engage in open socio-political discussions in order to provide community-driven directives to the Regional Chief through resolution.

The BCAFN Regional Chief sits on the AFN Executive Committee whereby his/her role is to ensure regional concerns of BCAFN members are included in National political discussions and decision-making processes. The Regional Chief also holds specific portfolios that deal with national policy issues and concerns.

The BCAFN Society is registered under the Societies Act of British Columbia. As an incorporated society, BCAFN operates with its own regionally specific mandates, and works towards creating new and better memories for First Nations that include meaningful participatory relationships with the provincial and federal governments as well as industry, and which aim to close the socio-economic gap between First Nations and non-First Nations people.

To learn more about us, please visit: bcafn.ca

About the Opportunity

BCAFN is looking for a full-time Policy Analyst based in Vancouver/Prince George, BC (hybrid/remote).

This role supports the Regional Chief, Chief of Staff, and Senior Policy Director, contributing to the BCAFN's mission in alignment with the direction provided by BCAFN members and the Board of Directors.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Monitoring, developing, and recommending responses to federal and provincial policies, programs, and legislative initiatives affecting First Nations' Title, Rights, and interests
  • Conducting research and providing analysis, advice, and recommendations on assigned policy, program, legislative, or other key issues
  • Gathering and disseminating information on policy, program, and legislative initiatives to BCAFN members
  • Assisting with program and policy planning, development, and implementation
  • Preparing speaking notes, briefing notes, reports, and communications materials
  • Responding to requests and inquiries from BCAFN members and partner organizations
  • Assisting in the planning and coordination of BCAFN assemblies and meetings
  • Implementing resolutions passed by BCAFN members

To read the full position description, please click here.

More About You

To qualify, you will need a University Degree from a recognized post-secondary institution, preferably in public administration, political science, law, economics, social services, or a related discipline. Additionally, experience or knowledge in the development of legislation, regulation, and policy will also be essential, preferably within a First Nations provincial/territorial organization or First Nation administration.

The following skills and experience will be crucial for this role:

  • Knowledge of First Nations historical, political, and legal issues
  • Holistic understanding of how policy and policy changes affect the lives and sovereignty of First Nations communities
  • Strong research and analysis capabilities
  • Excellent time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and produce results within deadlines
  • Excellent analytical, judgement, persuasion, and consensus-building abilities
  • Flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of the team, with occasional evening and weekend work
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, to translate complex policy and legal language into understandable concepts for a variety of audiences
  • Willingness and ability to travel as required

Our ideal candidate is a self-driven, independent thinker, adept at collaborating with a multidisciplinary team. Your keen eye for detail and curiosity propels you to delve into the complexities of policy development, legislation, and its impacts on First Nations communities, fostering a deep understanding and innovative solutions. This exploration is always through an Indigenous lens, reflecting a lived, worked, or deeply understood experience that honours the perspective and values of First Nations communities.

Above all, you are defined by your flexibility, initiative, and a strong passion for advocating for First Nations' rights, titles, and interests. Skillfully navigating governance and organizational structures with respect, empathy, and diplomacy, you exhibit a well-rounded personality, emotional intelligence, and the discernment necessary to tackle various professional scenarios.

This is an impactful and dynamic position that requires a motivated individual who is ready to contribute to meaningful legistlative initiatives within the First Nations communities. We are looking for a candidate who is not only skilled and experienced but also shares our values of respect, solidarity, and teamwork.

Note: Preference will be given to applicants who have First Nations or Indigenous ancestry. 

About the Benefits

In exchange for your hard work and dedication, you will receive a highly competitive salary of $75,000 - $80,000, negotiable depending on skills, experience and qualifications, along with a great host of benefits, including:

  • Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • RRSP Matching of up to 6% of Your Salary
  • 3 Weeks of Vacation to Start (Negotiable)
  • Paid time off: Christmas Break & National Indigenous Day 
  • Moving Expenses (Negotiable)

If you are interested in progressing your career with a growing organization, apply today

Apply Now

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Vision and Mission

The British Columbia Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) is a Provincial Territorial Organization (PTO) representing and advocating for the 203 First Nations in British Columbia. BCAFN representation and advocacy is inclusive and extends to First Nations currently engaged in the treaty process, those who have signed modern treaties, and those who fall under historic treaty agreements which include the Douglas Treaties and Treaty 8. The BCAFN also represents and advocates for First Nations in BC that are not in treaty negotiations.