Job Description

Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

Reporting directly to the Director of Capital Projects, Assets & Infrastructure, the Safety Officer will play an integral role in the work environment of the Public Works & Utilities (PW&U) departments. The Safety Officer will use their technical expertise and ability to form effective working relationships with all levels of management, staff, consultants, contractors, and regulatory agencies to promote and maintain the safety culture in Public Works & Utilities. The Safety Officer is embedded within Public Works & Utilities operations and is responsible for driving a proactive, field-focused safety culture. This role ensures safe work practices are consistently implemented, monitored, and enforced across all operational activities, with a strong presence in the field and direct engagement with crews.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Post secondary education in Occupational Health and Safety, Risk Management, Engineering or Public Works
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a dedicated Occupational Health and Safety role
• Occupational Health & Safety certification (e.g., CRSP or NCSO) is an asset
• Professional designation or membership such as Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP), Certified Health and Safety Consultant (CHSC), or Canadian Society of Safety Engineers (CSSE) would be an asset
• Accident/Incident Investigation and Prevention training preferred
• Risk management training preferred
• Experience working in Public Works, Utilities, construction, or heavy operations environments
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered

REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check with results acceptable to WFN
• Valid BC Drivers’ License Class 5
• First Aid Certification
• Must wear and use Personal Protective Equipment, which may include a respirator
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Attends the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee as a representative of Public Works & Utilities
• Participates in crew talks and safety meetings to reinforce safe work practices
• Issues stop-work orders where imminent hazards/unsafe work conditions are identified
• Provides information to the Director of Capital Projects, Assets and Infrastructure related to disciplinary investigations where safety investigations show employee(s) not adhering to policy, program, procedure or WorkSafe BC regulation
• Adheres to processes and practices established by the Health & Safety Department
• Conducts regular safety training/informational sessions with Public Works & Utilities staff
• Coordinates and implements safety training:
  • Evaluates safety training requirements; organize and coordinate a safety training calendar to ensure employees are being trained regularly on safety topics pertinent to their job position e.g., Confined space, Fall protection, etc.
  • Ensures compliance with the required number of designated First Aid attendants
  • Assist department in maintaining Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS 2015) controlled products inventories and online database of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
  • Develop and conduct in-house safety training as required and in conjunction with the Occupational Health & Safety Supervisor
• Conducts emergency response drills
• Assists the Director of Capital Projects, Assets and Infrastructure with the inspection of contractors for compliance with WorkSafeBC regulations
• Supports the Director of Capital Projects, Assets and Infrastructure with product research, evaluation, and recommendation for safety equipment purchases
• Leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of safe work procedures specific to Public Works and Utilities operations (e.g., confined space entry, trenching/excavation, traffic control, chemical handling, equipment operation)
• Maintains a strong and visible presence in the field, working directly with crews to reinforce safe work practices and address hazards in real time
• Conducts regular field inspections, safety audits, and hazard assessments, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and WFN safety standards
• Investigates incidents, near misses, and safety concerns, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions
• Works closely with PW&U leadership to embed safety accountability into daily operations, planning, and performance expectations
• Supports and guides supervisors and crew leads in fulfilling their safety responsibilities, including toolbox talks, job hazard analyses, and safe work planning
• Tracks and reports on safety performance metrics, trends, and areas for improvement to leadership
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies, standards, and procedures, and as assigned by the Director of Capital Projects, Assets and Infrastructure

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Working knowledge of the Worker’s Compensation Act, Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, Human Rights Code and any other legislation, regulations, or applicable laws

• Strong knowledge of WorkSafeBC regulations and safety requirements applicable to municipal or First Nation infrastructure operations

• Proficient in office technology, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook (MS Office Suite)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills including the ability to communicate and coordinate in a professional, clear, articulate and accurate manner, both verbally and in writing
• Sound judgment and problem-solving skills with an ability to think strategically

• Exceptional organizational and time management skills with an ability to work quickly, while prioritizing and multi-tasking

• Stay current with latest trends on workplace safety and applicable legislative Acts (e.g., and Standards as required
• Proven ability to research subject matter and to provide recommendations to ensure an effective and efficient local government service
• Demonstrates a high degree of confidentiality in interpersonal interaction
• Working knowledge of the history of colonization in Canada and its ongoing impact on modern issues affecting Indigenous Peoples
• Working knowledge in communicating with Indigenous Peoples, demonstrating sensitivity and empathy, and awareness of how language choices can influence and impact conversations.

The median salary for this position is $80,947.02

This is a term position set to end July 03, 2028.

Westbank First Nation offers a competitive and thoughtfully designed total rewards package that reflects our commitment to employee wellbeing and long-term success. In addition to a competitive base salary, employees are eligible to participate in the Municipal Pension Plan, a defined benefit pension plan with a 9.31% employer contribution following the eligibility period along with comprehensive extended health and dental coverage.

Our unique and generous flexible time-off provisions are designed to promote work–life–family balance and overall wellness. At WFN, we also prioritize continuous growth and leadership development by investing in meaningful education and professional development opportunities that support both individual advancement and organizational excellence.

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at https://www.wfn.ca

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday, July 05th, 2026

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.