Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

Under the general supervision of the Park Superintendent and Park Management Team, and the guidance of the Resource Liaison Specialist, assist in leading Indigenous programs and initiatives in a designated geographic area. To promote understanding, co-operation and participation in MNRF's sustainable resource management program and Ontario Parks strategic direction with Indigenous, and non -Indigenous communities and other resource management users. To assist the Resource Liaison Specialist with any resource and issue negotiation with Indigenous communities/associations. To assist in the development and delivery of community outreach initiatives to Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities (e.g. Ontario Parks 125th Anniversary, Indigenous recognition projects).

Duties / Responsibilities :

1. Assist with the planning, promoting and coordinating of partnership opportunities with Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities focusing on resource management initiatives.

2. Assist in the planning and implementation of Indigenous initiatives and economic development opportunities across the Zone/District.

3. Providing information and advice to external clients (e.g. resource users, general public, Band Councils) through a variety of methods such as meetings, phone calls, correspondence to promote participation, understanding and co-operation, in MNRF's sustainable resource management programs (e.g. Forest and Fish & Wildlife Management planning, Parks Management Planning, and Land Management Programs).

4. Maintaining comprehensive documentation and tracking of contact and liaison with communities and individuals. Ensuring the required reports and documentation are produced and available.

5. Assist in tracking expenditures for Parks/District programs and initiatives with communities.


6. Assist in the preparation of management plans (e g. Forest Management Plans, Park Management Plans, Land Use Strategies) to ensure the consideration of Indigenous interests and foster input from communities.

7. Supporting issues management by researching and analyzing background material; monitoring and preparing summaries of media coverage of issues, events and response to communication initiatives; assisting with preparing press releases, articles, reports and newsletters.

8. Assisting with the delivery of a variety of resources and support services in preparation for delivery of resource management information, public awareness or preparation for negotiations and when organizing special events and conferences (e.g., preparation of information packages and media kits, room arrangements, schedules, set up of displays and exhibits).

9. Exploring issues, problems or requests (e.g. public request for information, road access for resource users). Analyzing and researching information and data: applying policies (e.g. Indigenous Policy), procedures and directives including long term direction (e.g. Resource Management and Park use strategies) to determine solutions, identify common interests (e.g. facilitating meetings) and provide a recommended response.

Knowledge :

Knowledge of resource management principles, practices, programs, and initiatives to consult with staff/clients and direct and facilitate meetings with Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, other resource management users and staff to explain planning process, solicit input, participation and co-operation in implementing MNRF's sustainable resource management programs (e.g. Forest and Fish & Wildlife Management Planning, Park Management Planning and Land Management Programs).

Understanding of native culture, social and economic issues to support the delivery of Indigenous programs and initiatives, assist in providing input and advice info MNRF's resource management plans to ensure consideration of issues (e.g. land claims and economic development) and to market Indigenous training initiatives.

Knowledge of personal computers and word processing to prepare information packages, presentations, digital filing, newsletters, reports and press releases and email, internet/intranet applications.

Skills :

Job requires: Ability to understand and develop excellent working relationships with a variety of Indigenous communities. Ability to prioritize, organize and complete work within given time frame.

Written and oral communication skills to provide information and explanations of ministry initiatives and activities when responding to public/client inquiries.

Written communication skills required to produce letters, reports, correspondence and background material. Interpersonal skills and ability required to apply tact and discretion to effectively work with ministry staff and internal and external clients.

Conflict resolution, negotiation and mediating skills required to facilitate meetings, explain and consult with Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities and other resource management users.

Analytical and research skills required to gather information and assess data to support the delivery of programs and respond to inquiries and issues. Ability to interpret and apply related legislation, policies, procedures and directives.

Freedom of Action :

Job requires working under the general supervision of the Park Superintendent and the guidance of the Resource Liaison Specialist, advising, involving and updating staff as required of progress, issues and problems; ensuring the consideration of Indigenous and non-Indigenous community interests (e.g. land claims, economic development opportunities) in the preparation of plans (e.g. Land Use Strategies, Forest Management Plans, Park Management Plans, and in promoting and assisting in Indigenous training initiatives). Decision making and working in accordance with legislation, ministry guidelines procedures, practices, and polices, referring to the supervisor/manager decisions on problems/issues or conflicting opinions between internal and external clients (e.g. resource management initiatives) which may potentially involve the Minister; situations that are not covered by Ministry policies or normal operating procedures are reviewed and recommended course of action is submitted to the supervisor