Valard is Canada's premier utility contractor, as well as head of the Valard Group of Companies AND part of the Quanta Group, the largest electrical power contractor in North America. Valard has full-service capabilities for transmission, distribution, substations, foundations, telecommunications, and renewable energy.

The Indigenous Employment & Procurement Specialist collaborates closely with Valard Project Management and Indigenous Relations teams to establish a transparent and cooperative relationship with Indigenous community leaders and businesses, facilitated by being located within the project area.

The primary focus of this role is the NSL/NEPL Projects, specifically during the ECI phase, with the potential to extend into the EPC phase if Valard is awarded the contract. During the ECI phase, this role will play a key role in fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities and supporting their participation in employment and procurement opportunities associated with the NSL/NEPL Project. This position is instrumental in assisting in the development of an Indigenous Engagement Plan rooted in trust, inclusivity, and meaningful input from the communities involved.

The position will be remote, with a preference for candidates based in the NSL/NEPL project areas, as frequent travel to communities is essential for success in this role.

Requirements

Requirements:

Community Engagement and Communication

• Build an open and transparent working relationship with Indigenous community leadership, community members and respective businesses.
• Collaborate closely with Valard Project Management and Indigenous Relations teams.
• Act as a liaison for Indigenous stakeholders regarding employment and procurement opportunities between the communities and project management teams, facilitating effective communication.
• Assist in keeping the community informed of project updates and progress during the ECI process.
• Gather and relay concerns or questions from the community to ensure they are heard and addressed.
• Gather knowledge of available employment and business resources, including Valard Human Resources and community-specific support services, and the ability to connect community leadership and members with these resources.

Procurement Strategy Development & Planning

• Create and develop an Indigenous procurement strategy that promotes the inclusion of Indigenous businesses in supply chain opportunities for the project.
• Identify and prequalify Indigenous vendors and suppliers, ensuring alignment with project requirements and standards.
• Work with the project team to integrate Indigenous procurement considerations into project planning and execution.
• Support Indigenous businesses by offering guidance on procurement processes and capacity-building resources

Employment Strategy Development

• Develop and implement strategies to increase Indigenous employment within the company and its projects.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase Indigenous employment within the company and the project.
• Identify and work with local training providers and educational institutions to facilitate skill-building programs and future opportunities.

Coordination and Monitoring

• Track and report on employment and procurement metrics to ensure alignment with project goals and commitments.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with contractual obligations related to Indigenous participation.
  

Education and Experience:

• Knowledge of available resources, including Valard Human Resources and community-specific support services, and the ability to connect employees with these resources.
• 5 – 10 years applicable Indigenous Relation or Community Engagement experience.
• Completion of an undergraduate degree in business administration or a business related discipline is preferred but not essential.
• An appropriate combination of education and experience is acceptable if the experience has been gained through a successful career in Indigenous relations, business and partnership development including significant experience in the field of energy generation and/or construction.

KSAS (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Personal Attributes):

• Community Engagement: Knowledge of effective strategies for building and maintaining positive relationships with Indigenous communities, including cultural awareness and sensitivity. Ability to actively engage with the community, identify employment opportunities, and encourage community members to be prepared to apply for positions.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively engage with community members, project teams, and leadership. Understanding of various communication methods, such as community radio and social media, to reach and engage community members effectively.
• Program Development: Proven track record of successfully developing and implementing programs that support Indigenous participation.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation.
• Problem-Solving: Skill in identifying and addressing concerns or questions from the community and finding solutions to challenges that may arise.
• Time Management: Effective time management skills to balance regular updates, community engagement, and accessibility outside of normal work hours.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Sensitivity to cultural differences and the ability to adapt communication and engagement strategies accordingly.
• Accessibility: Willingness and ability to be accessible during evenings and weekends and for potential visits to community meetings.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and respond to community needs and concerns in a flexible and empathetic manner.
• Travel Ability: Capability to travel along the project route and stay in short-term accommodations as required.

Benefits

Valard Construction LP is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse workforce. We offer a competitive salary and a complete range of employee benefits.

We thank all applicants for their interest. All applications will be reviewed to determine which candidates' education and experience best meet the needs of the position. Only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.