Xwchíyò:m (Cheam First Nation) is looking for a dedicated and community-focused Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Coordinator to lead and enhance the Nation’s emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Reporting to the Director of Operations, the EOC Coordinator will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining a comprehensive Emergency Management Program that reflects the unique needs, values, and governance of CheamThis role involves coordinating emergency planning activities, facilitating training and simulations, maintaining operational readiness of the EOC, and ensuring strong communication between internal departments and external response agencies. In the event of an emergency, the EOC Coordinator assumes a key leadership role in the EOC, supporting effective decision-making, resource coordination, and response strategies.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
• Assist with Community engagement and needs assessments.
• Review and provide recommendations to update Cheam’s Emergency Response Plan, All Hazards Plan, and Health plans, which align with Cheam’s Comprehensive Community Plan.
• Develop a community-focused EOC team.
• Coordinate training for EOC team members and staff for wildfire, evacuation, flooding, landslide, water safety and first aid, which includes tabletop exercises.
• EPC will take the lead on the Fire Smart Program with FNESS
• Develop Emergency Preparedness / Public Safety Education and Awareness information and training.
• Collaborate with external agencies for the development and creation of a hazard and risk mapping library
• Identifying areas of high capability and suitability for medical and traditional food supply
• Develop relationships with external agencies such as FNESS, EMCR, Stó:lō Nation Services Agency, District of Kent, City of Chilliwack, Popkum Village, Seabird Island Band, ISC, First Nation Health Authority, etc.
• Coordinate implementation of EOC, ensure EOC equipment and supplies are maintained, tested, and replenished as required.
• Assume the role of Director in the EOC or Emergency Social Services Director in the Community Reception Centre or representative Mainland Coast Salish – Up-River Reception Centre.
• Prepare and manage the annual budget based on the updated EM Plan.
• Promote capacity development & community development with education, economic development, and training to promote emergency management-related employment or contract opportunities for community members.
• This position is also responsible for giving presentations on the program to community members and other groups who may request such a presentation.
• Coordinate the purchase and tracking of all equipment, materials and supplies on behalf of the EM program.
• Maintain records of EM Program and activities, and related statistics for future planning and reporting.
• Conduct informal or formal debrief sessions of emergency response as needed.
• Assess the effectiveness of the overall Emergency Program
Job Requirements
• Grade 12 or equivalent, Certificate and experience in the Emergency Management System is preferred
• Certificates and/or training of benefit to include Occupational Safety & Health (OSH), Health Emergency Management, and First Aid Responder training
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills, with the ability to work under pressure in dynamic, high-stakes environments.
• Knowledge of Indigenous Services Canada, Emergency Management BC and FNHA.
• Demonstrated leadership skills: able to foster a team approach, be flexible and be adaptable to working effectively with EM Partners, Cheam First Nation Administrative Departments, and community, especially in an activated Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).
• Attention to detail and accuracy with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to balance competing priorities, multitask, and to work under pressure.
• Knowledge, respect and understanding of Stó:lō culture, traditions and language is considered an asset.
• In-depth understanding of EOC functions, structures, and emergency response protocols.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills, with the ability to work under pressure in dynamic, high-stakes environments.
• Sound judgment, situational awareness, and decision-making skills in time-sensitive contexts.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills, with the ability to work under pressure in dynamic, high-stakes environments.
• Valid BC Driver’s License, Class 5; access to reliable transportation.
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check.
Working Condition
• This role may be required to work extended hours, evenings, or weekends during emergency situations.
• Some travel may be required.
How to Apply
Apply by submitting your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role to [email protected].
Cheam First Nation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including Indigenous Peoples, women, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities. As an Indigenous organization, preference will be given to qualified Indigenous applicants (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit). All applicants are encouraged to voluntarily self-identify in their application if they are a member of an equity-deserving group.
Thank you for your interest in joining our team at Cheam. We appreciate the time and effort you have taken to apply for this role. Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. We thank all applicants for their interest and encourage you to apply for future opportunities that match your qualifications.
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