Culture, Language, and Heritage Director

About the Role

Metlakatla First Nation is seeking a dedicated Director of Culture, Language, and Heritage (CLH) to lead the CLH Department. This permanent, full-time role is central to preserving and revitalizing Metlakatla’s cultural traditions, the Sm’algyax language, and historical records. The CLH Director will oversee the strategic direction and daily operations of the CLH program, ensuring the continuity and celebration of Metlakatla’s cultural identity. This includes managing initiatives related to language revitalization, cultural education, and the safeguarding of historical documents and artifacts.

In addition, the Director will serve as a key liaison with external stakeholders, advocating for the respectful treatment of Metlakatla’s cultural heritage. They will work to ensure that all development and activities within the territory are conducted in a manner that honors and protects the Nation’s history, values, and traditions.

Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with existing Metlakatla agencies involved in language, culture, and heritage initiatives, as well as those that may benefit from future departmental support


• Guide the department’s strategic direction by setting clear short-term and long-term goals and priorities and developing comprehensive 1-year and 5-year work plans and budgets aligned with these goals


• Identify, pursue, and manage appropriate funding opportunities to support departmental programs and initiatives


• Provide leadership and support to all CLH Department employees, including responsibilities related to recruitment, performance management, professional development, and human resources


• Draft and recommend departmental policies and procedures for approval by the Chief and Council, ensuring alignment with Metlakatla’s values and governance


• Design and implement strategies to increase Metlakatla member involvement and build long-term community capacity in cultural, language, and heritage initiatives


• Represent the CLH Department at Metlakatla Governing Council meetings and with external stakeholders, advocating for the protection and promotion of Metlakatla’s cultural interests


• Perform additional related duties as required to support the success of the department and the broader goals of Metlakatla First Nation

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Deep understanding and genuine respect for First Nations cultures, traditions, and values


• Strong cultural awareness and sensitivity, with a solid grasp of the current First Nations governance landscape in British Columbia and key socio-historical events affecting Indigenous communities across Canada


• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to foster meaningful relationships across diverse audiences and stakeholders


• Demonstrated leadership experience with a proven ability to inspire, guide, and support teams effectively


• Proficient in budget planning, financial management, and oversight of departmental resources


• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to shifting demands


• Technologically proficient, with strong skills in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word

Competencies and Qualifications:

• Degree in First Nations Studies, Archaeology, or equivalent, a combination of education and experience will be considered


• Minimum 3-5 years in a supervisory role


• Minimum 3-5 years working in a First Nations environment


• Demonstrated experience and comfort with public speaking and workshop facilitation to a variety of audiences


• Demonstrated experience in identifying and securing program funding through grant writing


• Demonstrated knowledge of Tsimshian culture and history

Working Conditions:

• This position is required to work on-site at Metlakatla


• Schedule: Monday to Thursday from 8:30 am - 5:00 pm and Friday from 8:30 am - 1:00 pm


• Some travel and evening work will be required


• Exposure to culturally sensitive topics


• Some outdoor work as needed

Compensation:

• Salary range: $75,000 - $85,000

Application Details:

If you believe that this opportunity is a fit for you, please apply with your cover letter and resume. Additional information on this role can be found in the full job description.

This posting will remain open until filled. We will begin reviewing applications immediately, so please do not hesitate in applying.

We look forward to hearing from and connecting with you!