Operations Manager, Gitxsan Environmental Services (GES)

Operations Manager – Gitxsan Environmental Services (GES)

• Relevant Backgrounds: Environmental Manager | Environmental Program Lead | Senior Environmental Project Manager

• Location: Hazelton, Smithers, or Terrace, BC preferred (Flexible/hybrid options within BC available for the right candidate)

• Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

• Travel Required: Regular travel to regional office and occasional travel to project sites

About Us

At Gitxsan Environmental Services (GES), a subsidiary of Gitxsan Development Corporation (GDC), we are part of a shared vision for the Gitxsan Nation’s economic independence and long-term prosperity. Rooted in Gitxsan Ayookw (law) and guided by traditional governance, we blend cultural values with modern business to deliver community-driven work that supports local economic growth and creates quality jobs.

We are a fast-growing organization and welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our values of respect, hard work, and community.

Impact starts with us.

Position Summary

GES is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and knowledgeable Operations Manager to expand and lead our environmental operations across Northern BC.

This key leadership role is responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing field and office-based environmental projects, driving technical quality, mentoring teams, and supporting client and business development.

Who should apply? We are seeking an Operations Manager (also open to experienced Environmental Managers or Environmental Program Leads) to oversee field and office-based environmental projects across Northern BC. Based in Smithers, Hazelton, or Terrace, BC (with flexible BC options for the right candidate), this full-time leadership role bridges technical project execution, team mentorship, and client relations. We are seeking a seasoned environmental professional or an ambitious, highly organized leader ready to step into an operational role. Candidates should bring 5+ years of environmental consulting experience, familiarity with Northern Canadian resource sectors, and a commitment to Indigenous-led economic and environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership, Mentorship & Team Development

• Provide direct leadership, coaching, and direction to environmental consultants, technicians, field crews, and administrative staff.

• Support recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee professional development.

• Provide direct guidance, training, and support to project teams on technical challenges and industry best practices.

• Foster a collaborative, close-knit, safety-focused, and high-performance workplace culture.

Operational & Project Management

• Manage day-to-day project execution, including schedule adherence, risk management, technical quality, health and safety, and internal team coordination.

• Develop and optimize operational systems, workflows, resource allocation, and reporting processes.

• Ensure projects across Northern BC are delivered safely, efficiently, on time, and within budget.

• Coordinate office activities and manage logistics for remote field operations.

Technical Quality & Environmental Compliance

• Lead and oversee environmental monitoring, erosion control, aquatic/wildlife assessments, and terrestrial ecology projects.

• Prepare and rigorously review technical deliverables, including client updates, regulatory documentation, and formal submissions.

• Ensure full compliance with federal, provincial, and local environmental regulations, permits, and reporting standards.

Client Communication & Business Growth

• Serve as a primary point of contact between clients, project teams, and senior executives—keeping leadership updated on project performance and profitability.

• Represent GES at industry events, meetings, and conferences.

• Actively identify business growth opportunities, meet with clients, and support proposal development and bid submissions.

Health, Safety & Environmental Stewardship

• Champion a strong safety culture across all office and field activities.

• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety policies and conduct risk assessments.

• Promote environmental stewardship and integrate Gitxsan traditional knowledge into daily operations and project delivery.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Operational Safety & Compliance: Champion a strong safety culture across all field and office operations; ensure 100% compliance with field safety protocols and timely resolution of reported hazards.

• Operational Performance: Projects delivered on time, within approved budgets, and meeting client quality standards.

• Team Leadership & Retention: High team engagement, effective mentorship, and clear accountability.

• Financial & Business Growth: Active participation in bid submissions, client satisfaction, and project profitability tracking.

Qualifications

Required

• Experience: Minimum 5+ years of progressive experience in environmental consulting, including field work, data interpretation, technical writing, and reporting.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Biology, Forestry, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Knowledge: Strong understanding of Canadian and BC environmental regulations, permitting, compliance, and reporting requirements.

• Tech Capabilities: Proficiency with modern project management software tools, Microsoft 365, and operational technology.

• Licensing: Valid Class 5 Driver’s License.

Preferred / Assets

• Supervisory Experience: 3+ years in an environmental management or advisory role managing multiple complex projects and multidisciplinary teams.

• Industry Background: Demonstrated history of working in the BC oil & gas sector or northern Canadian resource sectors.

• Specialized Fields: Experience in environmental monitoring, erosion control, aquatic biology, wildlife biology, or terrestrial ecology.

• Professional Designations: Holding or eligible for professional credentials such as R.P.Bio., P.Biol., P.Ag., P.Eng., or CPESC (or PMP).

• Cultural Experience: Prior experience working within Indigenous-led organizations or alongside First Nations communities, hereditary chiefs, and local community members.

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive Package: Competitive compensation and comprehensive health/dental benefits.

• Meaningful Culture: A rewarding work experience alongside a close-knit team, working directly with Gitxsan community members and hereditary chiefs.

• Career Development: Clear opportunities for long-term professional growth and leadership advancement in an expanding organization.

• Location Flexibility: Regional base preference in Hazelton, Smithers, or Terrace, with flexible/hybrid working arrangements available.

You’ll join a supportive, inclusive, and purpose-driven team where your growth matters. We invest in our people through strong benefits, professional development, flexible work options, and opportunities for all experience levels.

We are committed to a respectful and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We believe diverse experiences and perspectives strengthen our organization and the communities we serve. We are committed to fair and equitable employment practices and a safe, supportive environment for all employees. We encourage applications from Gitxsan Community members and welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our values of respect, hard work, and community.