Internal Posting:  This is an internal posting only for the benefit of existing BCGEU members and is posted in accordance with the current collective agreement.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is currently recruiting for a temporary, full-time FireSmart Coordinator to join the Protective Services team. The FireSmart Coordinator provides critical administrative support, ensuring efficient coordination of emergency management events, fire service provision, and public safety initiatives. This position is responsible for maintaining accurate records, grants, managing communications, and assisting with departmental logistics and scheduling. The role supports program delivery by coordinating training sessions and facilitating internal and external correspondence. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential to help ensure timely and effective protective services operations. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leads in the development, implementation and improvement of FireSmart Programs such as, FireSmartBC Wildfire Mitigation Program  and FireSmart Community Recognition Programs throughout the Regional District.
• Leads Regional District and partnering Municipalities FireSmart funding by coordinating applications to the Community Resiliency Investment Program and other funding opportunities.
• Monitors and evaluates the delivery and effectiveness of the RDOS Community Wildfire Resiliency Plans.
• In accordance with RDOS policies and in consultation with Finance staff, coordinates contracts and grants for wildfire mitigation activities including all procurement and compliance requirements, ensuring contractors fulfill tendered projects.
• Resolves routine problems and escalates non-compliance issues to the Manager for contractual or operational deficiencies.
• Prepares public awareness campaigns including preparation and delivery of presentations on the RDOS wildfire prevention / mitigation program, FireSmart BC Wildfire Mitigation Program and FireSmart  Community Recognition Program to community groups, partners and elected officials as directed.
• Assists with planning, logistics and presentations for FireSmart-sponsored workshops, events and courses.
• Researches and makes recommendations to the RDOS FireSmart work plans.
• In coordination with Communications staff, supports updates for the RDOS FireSmart website and social media sites.
• Provides advice on emerging issues, trends and best practices in wildfire prevention and mitigation and acts as a resource for FireSmart information at a variety of meetings and presentations with partners and other interested parties.
• Collaborates with partners and other public sector agencies to achieve RDOS FireSmart objectives and provides input into the wildfire prevention and mitigation processes in the Okanagan-Similkameen.
• Coordinates meetings with the South Okanagan-Similkameen Wildfire Advisory Group (SOWAG) established to assist local authorities and land managers in developing and setting strategic direction for South Okanagan-Similkameen wildfire prevention and mitigation activities.
• Produces complex correspondence, reports, contracts, agreements, briefing notes, advertising, public notifications, newsletters, press releases, bulletins, media interviews, and spreadsheets potentially within short timeframes.
• Compiles and analyzes data for annual reports and budgets.
• Serves on or supports the emergency response team as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Certificate from a recognized post-secondary institution in a related field, supplemented by courses in wildfire fire prevention and mitigation, emergency preparedness and the FireSmart Program.
• Wildfire Mitigation Specialist certification.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a related position. A combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience in preparing and delivering public presentations and working effectively with a diverse range of partners.
• Demonstrated computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint). 
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the Board, Committees, and a variety of internal and external partners.
• Ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative research and perform cost-benefit analysis.
• Ability to prepare contracts and requests for proposals/quotes.
• Ability to work on a number of concurrent tasks with deadline pressures.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters with discretion and integrity.
• Ability to accurately and efficiently support documentation related to budgeting and reporting.
• Ability to work flexible work hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Valid First Aid Certificate.
• Valid BC Driver’s Licence with experience towing trailers.

This temporary, full-time position is included in the BCGEU bargaining unit.  The hourly wage for the position is $37.40, Paygrade 5, plus an attractive benefits package.

Application Deadline:  4:00 pm, Friday, October 10, 2025

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We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. 

This position is only open to those legally entitled to work in Canada.