Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

This position will provide information, analysis and recommendations for natural resource management in support of aboriginal land claim negotiations.

Duties / Responsibilities :

Within the tight timelines and the demanding schedule of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Aboriginal Policy Branch, Claims Negotiation Support Unit, the incumbent:

1. Assists in researching, analyzing and synthesizing program data, records and other sources of information and consults with MNR branches, other Ontario ministries, and other governments to contribute to developing Ontario's position in claim negotiation; assists in the analysis of negotiation positions of other parties and their impacts for MNR programs and policies; assists in developing options and recommendations to respond to the positions of other parties in the negotiations; liaises with other branches and ministries on approaches and activities that may impact claims negotiation.

2. Assists in researching and analyzing mechanisms for engaging stakeholders and other interested third parties in matters related to aboriginal claim negotiations; assists in developing and implementing options for such mechanisms, including developing presentation and other written material, supporting meetings and preparing meeting records; working collaboratively with and reporting to Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs on stakeholder activities.

3. Assists in the procurement of and contract management for obtaining related specialized professional services (i.e. appraisals, environmental sites assessment, hydro-geological testing) necessary for MNR to fulfill it obligations to the negotiations process; assists in development of terms of reference for contracts, preparation of tender, RFP and contract documents and evaluation criteria; assists in monitoring contract progress, recognizing and identifying problems or occurrences that may impact the timely completion or quality of work being undertaken, recommending options to alleviate those concerns and reviewing final products.

4. Assists other staff in the Claims Negotiation Support Unit in preparing support material for claim negotiations ensuring accuracy and completeness of supporting data; assists in assembling and reviewing large quantities of supporting data, often within tight timelines; provides advisory support to MNR staff on matters related to preparation for claim negotiation activities; assists in developing a variety of reports summarizing background, challenges, interests, policy implications to claim negotiations and other initiatives.

5. Assists in engaging and working with other Ontario ministries and with other governments to assess and evaluate the implications and potential effects of proposed changes to current government policies and programs on existing relationships with Aboriginal communities; participates in cross-program and inter-ministry project teams and communities of practice.

6. Assists in developing and implementing effective information management systems including maintaining comprehensive research files and databases, manual and electronic tracking/filing systems, monitoring performance, and identifying gaps, delays and opportunities to address information needs.

7. Assists in preparation of correspondence, discussion papers, presentation materials, briefing notes, Cabinet Submissions and other written communications.

8. Maintains awareness of major social, economic, cultural and demographic trends, issues and innovations in Aboriginal relations; assists the claims negotiations team in strategic planning.

9. Participates with Unit staff in meetings and activities involving MNR, other ministry and federal government officials, stakeholder and aboriginal organizations.

10. Maintains high standards of professional conduct and accountability for maintaining confidentiality of highly sensitive information.

Managers have the right to assign additional duties

The incumbent shall, while in the workplace conduct themselves in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and any workplace practices as directed by their immediate supervisor. The incumbent shall report any hazards of which they are aware of to their immediate supervisor.

Staffing and Licencing :

The incumbent is required to travel frequently within the region to perform the duties of the position.

Knowledge :

Knowledge of natural resources management principles and practices sufficient to conduct detailed assessments and develop sound options and recommendations.

Knowledge of the Ontario Government's and Ministry's policy organization, strategic directions and priorities to assist in the development and review of relevant legislation and policies.

Knowledge of project management to assist in the development and evaluation of program strategies and resources, and to participate in the development of program approaches for claim settlement.

Knowledge of and consultation processes and effective mechanisms for engaging stakeholders and the general public

Knowledge of organizational policy development, decision-making and accountability frameworks in order to assist in the development of policies and Cabinet Submissions.

Knowledge of research methodologies, databases and websites to gather, summarize and interpret information and manipulate data inputs.

Knowledge of computer operations and standard software to maintain and analyze information and produce high quality reports and presentations.

Skills :

Job requires strong oral and written communications skills to assist in the preparation of technical reports, and presentations, briefing and communications materials.

Job requires project management skills to assist in planning, organizing and executing procurement and contract management activities.

Job requires research and analytical skills to review and synthesize technical, policy and legal information.

Job requires organizational skills to assist with planning and delivery of support material for negotiations, other meetings and workshops and to manage multiple projects at the same time.

Job requires information management skills and computer skills to conduct research, maintain data bases, electronic/filing systems and prepare reports.

Job requires professionalism, judgment and demonstrated ability to work in teams, address contentious issues with a variety of internal and external stakeholders, and build support for land claim approaches.

Freedom of Action :

Work is assigned and carried out under direction of a Coordinator/Negotiator, Claims Negotiations Support Unit.

Work is guided by Ministry and government policies, legislation, objectives and priorities.