Job Opportunity

MARINE COORDINATOR

Full-time, Ongoing

Who we are

Pacheedaht First Nation - or “People of the Seafoam”- are a Nuu-chah-nulth people from the southwest coast of Vancouver Island.

We are the Pacheedaht First Nation - a resilient, thriving community rooted in our sacred lands and waters. Our home brings peace, safety, and belonging, connecting us to one another and to our ancestors.

Guided by our teachings, we steward our territory and exercise our rights, title, and jurisdiction with care, protecting the wildlife, clean air, waters, and forests that sustain current and future generations. Pacheedaht First Nation is a proud, progressive government focused on the health, safety, and self-reliance of our people while preserving our culture, values, and language. We hold four reserves (174 hectares) within our traditional territory in Port Renfrew, about 80 km from Victoria, with an estimated 286 members, including roughly 100 living on-reserve.

About the role

Reporting to the Band Manager, the Marine Coordinator oversees the planning, coordination, and day-to-day operations of the Seafoam Spirit vessel in support of the Southern Resident Killer Whale (SRKW) research program. This role ensures safe vessel operations, supports research activities, and upholds the Nation’s stewardship responsibilities on the water.

We are seeking someone who brings a background in marine operations, community stewardship, and respectful engagement with Indigenous values—demonstrating practical experience on the water, a commitment to environmental protection, and an understanding of the Pacheedaht First Nation’s cultural teachings and governance.

What you will do

As the Marine Coordinator for Pacheedaht First Nation, you will:

Marine Operations & Safety Stewardship

• Coordinate vessel scheduling, crew assignments, and research activities.
• Ensure compliance with marine safety, transport, and environmental regulations.
• Oversee vessel readiness, maintenance coordination, and safety equipment.
• Maintain voyage logs, permits, and reporting requirements.
• Support on-water research operations as needed.

Relationships, Collaboration & Cultural Protocols

• Liaise with researchers, partners, and regulatory agencies.
• Uphold cultural protocols and stewardship values during marine activities.

Lived and learned experience we are seeking

To be the successful candidate for this position, you will have/demonstrate:

• Skills grounded in lived experience: Experience in marine operations, coordination, or research support.
  • Strong knowledge of marine safety and coastal environments.
  • Ability to work flexible hours and in changing marine conditions. 
• Cultural grounding: Knowledge of Pacheedaht First Nation culture, history and local traditions. 
• People & relationships: Excellent communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills. 
• Indigenous experience: Indigenous lived experience and/or significant experience working with Indigenous communities is strongly valued. 
• Certifications & Checks: Valid marine certifications (or willingness to obtain). 
  • First Aid/Marine Emergency training considered an asset. 
  • Clear Criminal Record Check, including the vulnerable sector, as required.

What we offer

• An opportunity to work with like-minded people and do meaningful, community-focused work.
• A pay range of $28-$32 per hour. 
• Full-time, year-round employment.
• Additional paid time off over the festive season, plus generous sick and personal leave.
• Every other Friday off, and hybrid work arrangements, where applicable.
• An extended benefits plan and an employer-matched pension plan. 
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Participation in community events and festivities.