Summary
Description
The Team
The Communications and Engagement team (Northwest Fire Centre) at BC Wildfire Service is an established and supportive team consisting of four members: a Community Engagement Specialist, a Communications Specialist, and two Communications Assistants. The team works closely with operations staff and all sections within the fire centre to keep the public informed during wildfire responses and represent BCWS to the public. Known for its friendly and cohesive atmosphere, the team values inclusivity, collaboration, and providing a supportive work environment, especially during the fast-paced wildfire response season.
The Role
As a Communications Assistant at BC Wildfire Service, you will play a key role in keeping both staff and the public informed by assisting with internal communications, writing for social media, and supporting external communications and public outreach efforts. Your work directly impacts the community by ensuring citizens and partners stay up to date on important fire-related information. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a great team, gain hands-on experience, and grow your career in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Qualifications:
Education and Experience Requirements
- Technical diploma in a field related to communications, public relations, journalism or equivalent knowledge; or
- Grade 12 and an equivalent combination of education, training and 2 years related experience in communications.
- Valid Class 5 driver licence.
Preference may be given to candidates with:
- Emergency response experience in natural resources
- Experience with Adobe products
- Experience using Microsoft Suite products such as Excel, Outlook and Word.
Willingness Statements:
- To be flexible regarding ongoing changes in responsibilities, assignments and corporate structures.
- To keep current on emerging issues.
- To take in-house training and certification as required.
- To fly in aircraft (fixed wing and rotary) as required.
- To work extended hours, including weekends, and be on standby with limited notice in accordance with the preparedness plan.
- To travel and overnight in remote locations where accommodations may vary as required.
- To participate in ICS positions as assigned.
- To work under adverse or stressful conditions, including smoke, extreme heat and mountainous terrain in remote and isolated conditions.
For questions regarding this position, please contact Casda.Thomas@gov.bc.ca.
About this Position:
This is an auxiliary opportunity until November 1, 2025.
Flexible work options are available; this position may be able to work up to 2 days at home per week subject to an approved telework agreement.
Flexible work options may not be available during emergency operations response periods.
An eligibility list may be established to fill future temporary and permanent vacancies.
Smithers: Smithers, on Highway 16, is home to activities like fishing, boating, camping, hiking, skiing, and shopping. The traditional territory of the Wet’suwet’en people, whose relationship with the land and strong traditions continue to this day, Smithers is a small but welcoming community.
A Criminal Record Check (CRC) will be required.
Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment.
Working for the BC Public Service:
The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our team and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.
We are committed to ensuring that reasonable accommodation is available throughout the hiring process, including the assessment and selection stages. Please email the individual or contact listed on the posting if you require an accommodation to fully participate in the hiring process.
The Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is available to Canadian Indigenous (First Nations [status or non-status], Métis, or Inuit) applicants. Indigenous applicants can contact this service for personalized guidance on the BC Public Service hiring process including job applications and interviews.
This is your opportunity to live in one of the most beautiful regions in British Columbia and work for the BC Public Service. We offer a healthy work/life balance, excellent benefits and much more.
How to Apply:
Your application must clearly demonstrate how you meet the job requirements listed above. Applicants who are selected to move forward in the hiring process may be assessed on their knowledge, skills, abilities, competencies and other position related requirements as outlined in the Job Profile at the bottom of the posting.
Cover Letter: NO – Please do not submit a cover letter as it will not be reviewed.
Resume: YES – Ensure your resume includes your educational accomplishments, employment history including start and end dates (month and year) of your employment, and any relevant information that relates to the job to which you are applying.
Questionnaire: YES – You will need to complete a basic questionnaire to demonstrate how you meet the job requirements.
Find more information on the recruitment process, including helpful tips and videos about the application process, visit the Your Job Application page of MyHR. Gain insights into the hiring journey by joining a Career Conversation. Applications will be accepted until 11:00 pm Pacific Time on the closing date of the competition. If you are experiencing technical difficulty applying, visit the Technical Assistance page of MyHR.
