Public Works Manager
Job No:
294991
Location:
Bella Bella, BC
- Further your career with a world-class First Nations organization in beautiful Bella Bella!
- Enjoy a highly competitive starting annual salary of $85,000-$105,000, plus relocation assistance, housing, and fantastic benefits
- Lead with excellence in a dynamic, culturally vibrant community focused on financial integrity and sustainable development
About Heiltsuk Tribal Council
The Heiltsuk Nation, with a history spanning over 14,000 years, is a vibrant community deeply rooted in the traditions and values of our ancestors. Located in the stunning Great Bear Rainforest, we are dedicated to the sustainable management of our rich natural resources and the preservation of our cultural heritage. We aim to foster a deep understanding and appreciation of our heritage, promote sustainable practices, and advocate for the rights and well-being of our community. Our services, including fisheries management, cultural tourism, and economic development initiatives, reflect our commitment to these goals. Through meaningful engagement, education, and empowerment, we strive to build bridges of understanding, preserve our ancestral knowledge, and inspire positive change for current and future generations. Our strong governance, led by the Heiltsuk Tribal Council, ensures that we continue to thrive. Join us in celebrating our rich history and contributing to a sustainable future where tradition meets innovation.
For more information, please visit our website: www.heiltsuknation.ca/
Hear from Our Team
"As an HR Professional, I have worked in Bella Bella for several years and found it a very rewarding experience. If you love working with people, immersing with cultural values while surrounded by beautiful nature, this should be your next chapter. Bella Bella and the Heiltsuk Tribal Council are a very progressive community with the goal of building capacity of community members, and strive to be a workplace with respect and traditional values, while ensuring that the employees and manager strive to obtain teamwork, transparency, accountability, and respect." — Eleanor, HR Manager
About the Opportunity
Heiltsuk Tribal Council has an exciting opportunity for a full-time Public Works Manager to join our team in the breathtaking and remote community of Bella Bella, British Columbia.
Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, you will play a pivotal role in leading municipal infrastructure and operations while supporting community-wide safety and accessibility.
In this position, you will be primarily responsible for coordinating and supervising public works activities across road maintenance, seasonal services, and infrastructure preparation, while supporting water, wastewater, and dock operations through effective oversight and collaboration.
More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Overseeing day-to-day operations of road maintenance, snow removal, and seasonal community services
- Coordinating infrastructure activities with the Capital Department and Solid Waste Manager
- Supervising and mentoring team members across Public Works, Safe Water, Wastewater, and Dock operations
- Planning and managing lot infill projects and sewer system installations
- Ensuring tire repair and vehicle servicing logistics are addressed in a timely manner
- Monitoring and allocating resources for emergency preparedness and response (e.g. floods, storm cleanup)
- Developing capacity in heavy equipment and machinery operations
- Liaising with contractors and utility providers on community and housing infrastructure projects
To read the full position description, please click here.
About You
To qualify, you will need 5+ years of experience in municipal or operations management, including 3+ years supervising staff, ideally with a related post-secondary diploma or degree. A Class 5 driver’s license will also be required. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
Experience in a First Nations or Indigenous community organization is an asset but not required. We welcome candidates who are eager to learn and engage with the Heiltsuk Nation.
The following skills are essential to success in this role:
- Proven knowledge of road maintenance, sewer systems, seasonal public works, and heavy equipment operations
- Experience coordinating infrastructure projects and collaborating with contractors and capital teams
- Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills in remote or resource-limited settings
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams, resolve conflicts, and build strong working relationships
- Experience with budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation
- Cultural competency and willingness to learn about Heiltsuk traditions and First Nations governance
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to provide sound, confidential advice to leadership
- Certified Public Works Supervisor Level I or II (asset)
- Project management experience in capital or municipal works (asset)
As our ideal candidate, you will be proactive, responsive, and capable of anticipating infrastructure needs without being prompted. You will demonstrate strong organizational skills, the ability to multitask under pressure, and a hands-on leadership style that includes stepping in during emergencies when necessary.
You will also bring cultural sensitivity and respect for First Nations values, including an understanding of community-driven schedules, ceremonies, and protocols. Your flexibility, patience, and practical mindset will allow you to adapt to the realities of remote living while building strong working relationships across departments.
This is a vital leadership role for someone who combines operational expertise with cultural awareness, thrives in dynamic environments, and is ready to make a lasting impact within the Heiltsuk Nation.
About the Benefits
Compensation based on skills and experience is a competitive annual salary of $85,000 to $105,000, negotiable for exceptional candidates, and a host of excellent benefits including:
- Comprehensive Benefits Plan: extended health care, dental, vision, life and long-term disability, etc.
- Accomodation Provided/Rent Subsidy
- Relocation assistance - up to $5,000 for moving expenses
- Round-trip flights between Bella Bella and Vancouver
- Pension plan - 3% match
- Banked time off in lieu
- Access to K-12 schools
- Paid time off - 4 weeks plus 10 days at Christmas
- Sick days - 18 days
- Family responsibility time-off - 60 hours
- License and membership fee coverage
- Enjoy the beautiful region and immerse yourself in community events throughout the year!
If you tick all of these boxes and believe you will thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!