Title & Rights Researcher

Lilwat Nation; Mount Currie; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Lil'wat Nation in British Columbia seeks a Title & Rights Researcher to support assertion and protection of Aboriginal rights and title within Lil'wat traditional territory.

Reporting to the Project & Culture Manager, you will conduct strategic research, produce clear, defensible outputs, and collaborate with GIS and Cultural Research teams. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while supporting departmental priorities.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in Indigenous Studies, Political Science, Law, Geography, Environmental Studies, Public Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 3-5 years of research, policy analysis, or Indigenous governance experience.
• Understanding of Aboriginal rights and title in British Columbia.
• Experience with First Nations government is preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis related to Aboriginal rights, title, land use planning, and governance.
• Prepare written research briefs, referrals, and policy scans.
• Support leadership with briefs, memos, and recommendations for Chiefs and Council.
• Collaborate with GIS and Cultural Research staff to integrate findings with mapped data.
• Monitor legislative developments affecting First Nations rights and title.

Skills

Research skills

Analytical thinking

Written and verbal communication

Team collaboration

Time management

Microsoft Office proficiency

GIS knowledge

Education

Post-secondary education in Indigenous Studies or related field

Tools

GIS software

Job description

Title: Title & Rights Researcher

Department: k̓wezúsmin̓ Title & Rights

Status: Regular Full Time

Pay Grid: Salary Range 4 ($54,720.00 to $71,820.00 per year)

Reporting to: Project & Culture Manager

Summary of Duties:

Reporting to the Project & Culture Manager, the Title & Rights Researcher is responsible for conducting strategic research, analysis, and reporting to support the assertion and protection of Lil'wat Nation's Aboriginal rights, title, and interests throughout Lil'wat traditional territory.

The position supports departmental projects related to land use planning, consultation and referrals, governance development, and legal preparedness by producing clear, well-documented material for leadership. The Researcher works collaboratively within the Title & Rights Department, including land use planning, GIS and cultural data functions, to ensure research materials are synthesized into defensible and decision-ready outputs for leadership.

This position requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while supporting broader departmental priorities.

Key Deliverables and Expectations:

• Conduct research and analysis related to Aboriginal rights and title, land use planning, consultation processes, and governance matters.
• Review referral materials and identify potential impacts to asserted rights and title within Lil'wat traditional territory, including preparation of referral summaries and policy scans.
• Prepare written research briefs, reports, and recommendations for leadership and Chiefs and Council, such as research memos briefing notes, referrals summaries, policy scans
• Compile and organize research materials to support negotiations, regulatory processes, and potential litigation, ensuring records are well documented.
• Support implementation and ongoing review of the Lil'wat Land Use Plan and related land policies.
• Collaborate with GIS and Cultural Research staff to integrate research findings with mapped data and cultural information.
• Track cumulative impacts and maintain analytical records to support long-term planning and defensibility.
• Monitor legislative, regulatory, and policy developments affecting First Nations rights and title, and prepare summary updates or scans as required.
• Support preparation of materials for Steering Committees, Land Use Referral Committee, and other Boards as required.
• Assist in researching funding opportunities and preparing supporting documentation where applicable.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity of sensitive cultural and legal information.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Experience and Attributes:

• Post-secondary education in Indigenous Studies, Political Science, Law, Geography, Environmental Studies, Public Administration, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 3-5 years experience in research, policy analysis, or Indigenous governance.
• Demonstrated understanding of Aboriginal rights and title in British Columbia.
• Experience working for or with a First Nations government preferred.
• Strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare concise reports and recommendations.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize assignments, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and research tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge and understanding of Lil'wat Nation's culture, history, reserve lands, and traditional territory considered an asset.
• Understanding or knowledge of DRIPA/UNDRIP
• Works closely with Land Use Planning, GIS, and Cultural Research functions, and is expected to handle culturally, legally, and politically sensitive information with care.
• Understanding of Indigenous data governance, confidentiality principles, and ethical research practices to ensure information is used appropriately to support Nation decision making.
• Must be able to provide a clear Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector
• Valid Class 5 Driver's License and clean Driver's Abstract with access to a vehicle.