Forestry Manager

Department: Economic Development – Cheslatta Forestry

Reports To: General Manager

Employment Status: Full-Time, Permanent

Salary Range: $85,000 – $105,000 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience

The Forestry Manager is responsible for the overall planning, management, and operational oversight of Cheslatta Carrier Nation’s forestry program, including the Cheslatta Community Forest (COMFOR), timber harvesting and hauling operations, silviculture and reforestation activities, wildfire rehabilitation, and private land management. Reporting to the General Manager, this position leads a team of forestry staff and contractors, ensures compliance with all applicable provincial regulations and licensing requirements, and advances CCN’s long‑term vision of sustainable, community‑based forest stewardship.

The Forestry Manager plays a central role in maintaining and growing CCN’s approximately $1.2 million annual forestry revenue and upholding the Nation’s commitment to managing the forest for the benefit of current and future generations.

Forest Operations Management

Plan, direct, and coordinate all Cheslatta Forestry operations including harvesting, hauling, road construction and maintenance, and log marketing.

Oversee the Community Forest Agreement (COMFOR) across the approximately 40,000‑hectare licence area within the Lakes Timber Supply Area, ensuring operations remain within the annual allowable cut.

Manage all operational planning documents, cutting permits, road permits, and associated regulatory approvals with the BC Ministry of Forests.

Supervise and evaluate forestry staff, contractors, and equipment operators; coordinate scheduling and performance management.

Ensure all harvesting and hauling operations meet WorkSafeBC and CCN safety standards; conduct regular field safety assessments.

Maintain and oversee CCN’s harvesting equipment inventory; coordinate maintenance schedules and capital equipment needs with the General Manager.

Silviculture, Reforestation & Wildfire Rehabilitation

Plan and administer silviculture prescriptions, free‑to‑grow assessments, and reforestation programs, including the coordination of annual seedling planting programs (historically over one million seedlings per year).

Manage and advance ongoing rehabilitation of fire‑damaged stands from the 2018 wildfires, including fire guard rehabilitation and archaeological monitoring coordination.

Coordinate with the BC Forest Enhancement Society (FESBC), BCTS, and other funders for project grants supporting fibre recovery and stand rehabilitation.

Ensure compliance with stocking standards, species selection guidelines, and post‑harvest obligations under CCN’s licences.

Regulatory Compliance & Reporting

Ensure full compliance with the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA), Forest Act, Wildfire Act, and all applicable provincial regulations.

Prepare and submit annual reports required under the Community Forest Agreement and Forest and Range Stewardship Plans (FRSPs).

Maintain accurate records of timber cruise data, cut control, road management, and all statutory filings.

Liaise with BC Ministry of Forests district staff, BC Timber Sales, and other provincial agencies on operational and compliance matters.

Support audits and inspections, including Forest Practices Board reviews, as required.

Community & Stakeholder Relations

Advance CCN’s reconciliation and economic development goals through the forestry program, prioritizing employment and contracting opportunities for CCN members.

Coordinate with the Natural Resources Manager, Senior Policy Advisor, and General Manager on matters intersecting forestry operations with environmental stewardship, cultural heritage, and territorial rights.

Maintain effective relationships with the Ootsa Lake Sawmill joint venture partners (Cheslatta Forest Products, Carrier Lumber Ltd.) and regional mill operators.

Participate in regional forestry sector bodies, including the Chinook Community Forest and BC First Nations Forestry Council initiatives as applicable.

Communicate forestry plans, activities, and outcomes to Chief and Council through the General Manager,…