Principal Consultant, Strategic Engagement & Indigenous Interests Assessment

Principal Consultant, Strategic Engagement & Indigenous Interests Assessment – ERM

At ERM we’re not just consultants—we’re trusted partners driving sustainable solutions and fostering respectful relationships with Indigenous Nations. This role leads the Future of Indigenous Engagement and Strategic Impact, shaping meaningful change and influencing how organizations advance reconciliation in Canada.

As a Principal Consultant within ERM Canada’s Regulatory and Permitting Team, you directly support ERM’s Reconciliation Strategy and the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The role is about building trust, integrating Indigenous knowledge into decision‑making, and shaping projects that respect rights and deliver shared benefits.

• Drive strategic Indigenous engagement and consultation programs for major infrastructure, natural resources, and renewable energy projects.
• Lead Indigenous Interests Assessments and integrate Indigenous knowledge into environmental and social impact assessments.
• Advise clients and internal teams on culturally appropriate practices, regulatory frameworks, and reconciliation strategies.
• Mentor and inspire multidisciplinary teams while fostering collaboration with Indigenous Nations and stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Indigenous Studies, Environmental Sciences, Anthropology, Sociology, Geography, or a related field.
• 6+ years of experience in Indigenous engagement, consultation, and/or Indigenous interests assessment.
• Proven track record working with Indigenous Nations in BC and/or across Canada.
• Expertise in regulatory frameworks, including BC Environmental Assessment Office or BC Energy Regulator guidelines.
• Strong leadership, facilitation, and technical writing skills.
• Valid driver’s license and/or ability to operate a company vehicle; frequent travel across a large geographical area.
• Ability to travel within Canada (approx. 10%).

• 10+ years of experience in Indigenous engagement, consultation, and/or Indigenous interests assessment.
• Experience with Indigenous‑led or co‑developed assessment models.
• Familiarity with stakeholder engagement platforms (e.g., Jambo, Net Benefit, Stake Tracker, Borealis).
• Knowledge of federal and other provincial/territorial regulations (Alberta, Ontario, Yukon, NWT, Nunavut).

• Design and lead Indigenous engagement and consultation programs with clients, Indigenous Nations, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Conduct Indigenous Interests Assessments in compliance with Duty to Consult and FPIC.
• Support Indigenous Knowledge and Traditional Land Use studies, assess impacts on rights and interests, and develop mitigation strategies.
• Integrate Indigenous perspectives into environmental assessments and project design.
• Provide strategic regulatory leadership and prepare filings, engagement summaries, and technical reports.
• Mentor junior consultants and contribute to internal capacity building.
• Participate in business development through proposals and client engagement.
• Maintain expertise through ongoing training and stay current on regulatory changes.

Flexible within British Columbia (Vancouver, Smithers) or other Canadian offices (Whitehorse, Calgary, Saskatoon). Remote options available.

The anticipated annual base pay is $108,001–$131,050 (CAD). Actual pay will depend on factors such as education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs. This role may be eligible for bonus pay (fixed‑term/flex force employees are not bonus eligible). Bonuses, commissions, and other forms of additional compensation are not guaranteed and are subject to the discretion of ERM.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP, and other applicable benefits to eligible employees.

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