Public Relations and Communications Specialist

Who is High Bar First Nation?

High Bar First Nation is a First Nations government representing the Secwe̓pemc (Shuswap) Nation, situated in the Fraser Canyon-Cariboo region of British Columbia’s Central Interior. Established in the 1860s, we are one of four Secwépemc bands that remain independent from the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council and the Northern Shuswap Tribal Council. Known as the Llenllene̓y ̓ten, the High Bar people share historical and cultural connections with the Tsilhqot’in people and are also recognized as the Canyon Shuswap.

Job Summary:
As the Public Relations and Communications Specialist, you will report directly to the Band Administrator and be responsible for the communications and public relations strategies that promote the interests of High Bar First Nation (HBFN). Working across departments and with senior leadership, the role involves raising awareness of High Bar First Nations’ initiatives, fostering community engagement, managing media relations, and promoting positive relationships with community partners, government agencies, and other stakeholders. The Public Relations and Communication Specialist plays a key role in shaping how High Bar First Nation communicates with the community and external partners.
This role will require flexibility, with occasional extended hours to attend meetings or community events. You’ll be responsible for shaping the public image of HBFN, while managing a variety of communication platforms and initiatives.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
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Develop PR and Communication Strategies: Create and execute strategic communication plans that support HBFN’s goals, aligning with cultural values and organizational objectives
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Media Relations: Act as the media liaison, crafting press releases, media advisories, and statements. Build and maintain relationships with media outlets to promote positive coverage of HBFN activities.
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Digital Communication: Manage HBFN’s online presence, including social media platforms, website content, and digital campaigns to ensure consistent and effective communication.
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Community Engagement: Coordinate and facilitate community events and public forums to foster engagement and gather input from HBFN members and stakeholders. Plan, coordinate, and deliver internal and external communication initiatives.
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Public Awareness Campaigns: Develop and lead initiatives to increase awareness of HBFN projects, services, and cultural programs through multimedia content, advertising, and outreach.
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Crisis Communication: Manage communication efforts during emergencies or significant events, ensuring timely, accurate, and transparent information dissemination.
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Content Creation: Write, edit, and produce content for newsletters, reports, presentations, and other communications materials.
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Stakeholder Relations: Maintain positive working relationships with government agencies, external partners, and internal departments to ensure cohesive and consistent messaging.
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Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education:
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Degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Public or Business Administration, or related field
Experience:
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Minimum of 3-5 years experience in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications
Skills and Ability:
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Exceptional Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal skills, including proficiency in writing for various platforms (press releases, reports, social media) and experience with public speaking
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Media and Digital Proficiency: Expertise in managing digital communication tools, social media platforms, and content management systems. Experience in managing multimedia content (text, images, audio, video) is an asset
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Strategic Thinking: Proven ability to develop and implement public relations strategies that drive engagement and promote the organization’s mission
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Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding of Indigenous culture, values, and communication practices, with a focus on fostering respect and inclusion in all communications
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Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work effectively under pressure
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Interpersonal Skills: Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively with community members, media, government officials, and external partners
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and Adobe is an asset
Compensation:
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Salary Range: $62,500 – $83,000, based on skill set and experience
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Comprehensive extended benefits, including dental and vision care
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On-site parking

Working Conditions:
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Based out of Clinton, BC, HBFN Band Administration Office
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Full-time, typically, Monday to Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm
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May be required to work some non-standard hours
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Travel may be required and may include overnight stays
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Works independently and collaboratively inclusive of regular supervision
Conditions of Employment:
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Must obtain and maintain a Criminal Records Check
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Must obtain and maintain a valid class 5 BC Driver’s License
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Must have a vehicle in good operating condition and appropriate vehicle insurance to and from work
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Access to company vehicle will be provided when required to attend to HBFN business

As the Public Relations and Communications Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in amplifying High Bar First Nation’s voice, promoting community engagement, and supporting the cultural and economic development of the Nation. If you are passionate about making a direct impact on the public narrative and ensuring effective communication of HBFN’s values and goals to the broader community, this role is for you!

The duties listed are provided as examples of areas of responsibility and are not intended to create limits to responsibility but to help understand the scope of the position. All staff are expected to be team oriented and maintain confidentiality of all information gained while working with the High Bar First Nation.
If this exciting new opportunity appeals to you, please email your resume and cover letter with the following subject: “Public Relations and Communications Specialist” to but to help understand the scope of the position. All staff are expected to be team oriented and maintain confidentiality of all information gained while working with the High Bar First Nation.

If this exciting new opportunity appeals to you, please email your resume and cover letter with the following subject: “Public Relations and Communications Specialist” to Jobs.hbfn@gmail.com until filled.

ONLY EMAIL APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED