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 Relations Liaison collaborates closely with Valard Project Management and Indigenous Relations teams to establish a transparent and cooperative relationship with Indigenous employees and community leaders, facilitated by being located within the project area.

The primary focus of this role is the NSL/NEPL Project, 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 plays a critical part in building relationships with Indigenous communities in the project area. The incumbent will assist in crafting a comprehensive 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 employees and community leadership.
• Act as a liaison between the community and project management teams, facilitating effective communication.
• Collaborate closely with Valard Project Management and Indigenous Relations teams.
• Supporting the awareness of future employment opportunities on the project.
• Keep the community informed of project updates and progress during the ECI process.
• As applicable, assist in developing and communicating project notifications related to the project.
• Gather and relay concerns or questions from the community to ensure they are heard and addressed.
• Keep the Valard team informed of community events that may affect community members' performance, attendance, or well-being.
• As applicable, keep the Valard team informed of community harvesting and gathering dates so work activities can be scheduled around them.
• Keep contact information up to date for all Indigenous communities.

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.
• Excellent computer skills including proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, Powerpoint, Etc).
• Local to one of the indigenous communities, Indigenous lived experience and knowledge of local Indigenous culture is an asset.

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.
• 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.