Policy Analyst
(Full Time Regular)
About Tsawwassen First Nation
Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) is a proud Coast Salish nation with our land base situated in Tsawwassen, B.C. In 2009, the Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement came into effect – this treaty was the first modern urban treaty in BC and the first treaty to be successfully negotiated through the BC Treaty Commission process. The Treaty provides us municipal, provincial and federal types of jurisdiction over a land base of 724 hectares.
Tsawwassen First Nation also became a full member of Metro Vancouver, the first First Nation to do so. We are going through a period of revival and renewal as we plan our future and seek opportunities to sustain our growth physically, economically and culturally, for present and future generations.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Manager of Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs, the Policy Analyst is responsible for providing strategic advice, policy analysis and intergovernmental leadership on a wide range of matters related to implementation of the Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement (the “Treaty”) and operation of the Tsawwassen Government. The Position leads the development of Tsawwassen legislation, regulation and policy; provides research and analysis to inform decision-making by senior management and elected leaders; serves as the policy lead on assigned intergovernmental files, including negotiations with the federal and provincial governments; and undertakes consultation initiatives involving Tsawwassen Members and residents of Tsawwassen Lands.
Working Relationships
The Position reports directly to the Manager of Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs. The Position must maintain effective working relationships with elected and appointed officials of Tsawwassen Government and external consultants and legal counsel. The Position is expected to work closely with other Tsawwassen Government departments. The Position will also be expected to establish strong working relationships with Tsawwassen Members, Non-Member residents, and external partners, including officials from other governments and organizations.
Specific Responsibilities
- Research, analyze, plan and develop new and amended Tsawwassen legislation, regulation, policy and service delivery standards in conjunction with other Tsawwassen Government departments by identifying best practices in other jurisdictions, analyzing existing policies and practices, presenting alternatives for consideration, and drafting language that reflects government direction
- Support Tsawwassen Government’s compliance with its legislative framework and assist or lead program and policy evaluations
- Assist with the development, interpretation and implementation of the Tsawwassen legal and policy framework (Treaty, side agreements, Tsawwassen Law, policies and other documents)
- Research information on government-related activities and politically sensitive issues, identifying and, where appropriate, preparing policy memos with strategic analysis and recommendations on significant developments
- Advance TFN’s intergovernmental priorities by leading engagement and negotiation with Canada, British Columbia, other modern treaty and self-governing indigenous governments, neighbouring First Nations, surrounding municipalities, and the Metro Vancouver regional district on assigned files
- Gather information, analyze and prepare reports and materials for other Tsawwassen Government departments for presentation to Executive Council and the Legislature
- Provide administrative support to the Tsawwassen Legislature, including preparation of briefing material, motions and speaking notes
- Facilitate and support TFN’s Advisory Council and facilitate and support consultations with Members on specific issues, as directed
- Provide speaking notes and briefing material for elected officials and senior staff
Working Conditions
Work is performed primarily indoors in an office environment. Off-site travel is occasionally required to attend meetings, committees, conference and training events. Evening work during sittings of the Tsawwassen Legislature is required.
Qualifications
- An undergraduate academic degree in public administration, public policy, planning, political science or related field
- A minimum of three years’ experience related to the duties listed above, with direct experience leading negotiations, developing policy options and coordinating policy processes in a self-governing First Nation context considered an asset
- An equivalent combination of experience and education may also be considered
- Working knowledge of the functions and interactions of the various levels of government including federal, provincial, Treaty First Nation and municipal. Specific knowledge of the BC Treaty Process and modern Treaties is considered an asset
- Knowledge and experience working with First Nations communities and governments – familiarity with the activities and culture of TFN is considered an asset
- Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills, with demonstrated experience writing concise and accurate briefing material to support decision-making
- Experience leading, facilitating and managing projects
- Capacity to respond quickly to changing demands and priorities under tight deadlines
- Ability to exercise good judgment, tact and diplomacy
- Ability to undertake and analyze quantitative and qualitative research
Wages: Pay scale for this position is $51.32 to $54.53 per hour (e.g. $100,074 to $106,333 per annum) commensurate with excellent benefits, including enrolment in the BC Municipal Pension Plan. Placement within the pay scale is based on a review of skills, experience and internal equity.
We wish to thank all applicants for their interest; however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview.
Pursuant to the Tsawwassen First Nation Government Employees Act, first priority in hiring among qualified applicants will be given to Tsawwassen Members, second priority to spouses (as defined in s. 3 (1) of the BC Family Law Act) of Tsawwassen Members, and third priority to members of other First Nations. If you fall within one of these categories and you wish to have this voluntary information considered as part of your application, please indicate the applicable category in your cover letter.
