JOB DESCRIPTION – Indigenous Land Guardian

(Land Needs Guardian)

Position Title: Indigenous Land Guardian (Land Needs Guardian)
Department: Lands & Resources / Environment / Stewardship
Reports To: Lands Manager / Environment Coordinator / Executive Director
Location: Apitipi Anicinapek Nation
Employment Type: Full-Time / Seasonal / Contract


 Position Summary:
The Indigenous Land Guardian (Land Needs Guardian) protects, monitors, and supports the health of the Nation’s lands, waters, wildlife, and natural resources. This role strengthens Indigenous stewardship by working on the land, collecting environmental information, reporting concerns, supporting community education, and upholding cultural protocols.
The Land Guardian supports the Nation’s responsibility to care for the land for present and future generations, following traditional knowledge, community laws, and land-based values.

 Key Responsibilities
Land & Water Monitoring
Conduct regular patrols of traditional territory, community lands, and culturally significant areas.
Monitor land use activities (roads, camps, harvesting areas, development sites).
Observe and report environmental concerns (pollution, dumping, erosion, illegal activity).
Monitor water quality, fish habitat, and shoreline conditions as assigned.
Assist in mapping trails, land use areas, and important cultural sites (confidential).

Wildlife & Habitat Stewardship
Monitor wildlife populations and habitat conditions.
Report sightings of species at risk or unusual animal behavior.
Support wildlife protection and harvesting protocols.
Assist with invasive species monitoring and control where applicable.

 Community Education & Outreach
Promote land safety and respectful land use.
Support land-based learning with youth, schools, and community members.
Participate in community gatherings to share updates and encourage stewardship.
Help strengthen language and cultural teachings related to the land.

Incident Response & Reporting
Document and report issues such as:
unauthorized land use
illegal dumping
forest fires/smoke concerns
poaching
unsafe camps
Work with leadership and relevant agencies when required.
Maintain clear written records, photos, GPS points, and field notes.

 Cultural Protocol & Knowledge Protection
Follow Elders’ guidance and community protocols at all times.
Protect confidential information about sacred sites, medicines, burial sites, and cultural locations.
Ensure consent and approval before sharing any land-based information externally.

Administration & Teamwork
Maintain equipment, supplies, and vehicles (ATV/boat/snowmobile if applicable).
Submit weekly/monthly activity reports.
Support land stewardship planning, mapping, and project work.
Attend training and meetings as required.

 Qualifications
Education & Experience
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Experience working on the land (hunting, trapping, fishing, guiding, forestry, etc.) is a strong asset.
Knowledge of the Nation’s traditional territory and land-based practices.
Environmental monitoring experience is an asset (water sampling, GPS, mapping).
Skills & Abilities
Strong awareness of land safety and survival skills.
Ability to work independently and in a team.
Strong observation skills and attention to detail.
Ability to write basic reports and maintain logs.
Respectful communication with community members, staff, and partners.

Requirements
Valid Driver’s License (Class G) required (or asset depending on your needs)
Ability to operate ATV, snowmobile, boat, and/or chainsaw (asset/training provided)
First Aid/CPR certification (required or must be obtained)
Criminal Record Check / Vulnerable Sector Check (as required)
Must be physically fit and able to work outdoors in all seasons

Working Conditions
Outdoor work in remote areas, all seasons.
May require travel, long days, and overnight trips.
Exposure to wildlife, weather, insects, and rugged terrain.

 Core Competencies
Strong cultural awareness and respect for land teachings
Responsibility and trustworthiness
Teamwork and community service mindset
Confidentiality and professionalism
Safety-first approach

Submit your cover letter, resume and three references, including details of your qualifications, clearly marked PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL

Human Resources

Apitipi Anicinapek Nation

310 Penatuche Road

Matheson ON P0K1N0

Tel: (705) 273 2055

Fax: (705) 273 2900

Email: hr@apitipi.ca