Indigenous Relations Lead

Where Greatness Grows

The greatest achievements in history are borne from the greatness within people – where human potential meets vision, and passion fuels evolution. Unlocking this potential is the most important thing we do at Bird.

As a leader in Canadian construction for over 100 years, the impact of our team is etched deeply within the core of our legacy. Beyond Bird, this impact is felt in the fundamental aspects of our everyday lives. From the critical infrastructure we depend on, to the energy and resources that keep us moving - we are powering our communities and shaping Canada’s skylines coast-to-coast. Entrenched in the foundation of a culture built more than a century ago is an enduring quest to reimagine what is possible. Our impact is greater than ever, and we are looking for those who seek to redefine their story.

We are a dynamic team of over 5,000 with a range of professions, backgrounds, and areas of expertise. This breadth of diversity in people and opportunities is one of greatest aspects of building your career with Bird. Every trajectory looks different. At Bird, you hold the pen, and you write your story. As you unlock your potential, you are surrounded by a team that supports you every step of the way.

Be a part of our team, where we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the way we treat each other and our partners. You will build a career and long-lasting relationships based on respect, collaboration, and a solution-focused mindset. Bird is a place where you will unlock your potential and achieve your goals.

This role supports collaboration with Bird’s Business Development, Operations, project teams, and corporate functions, while working respectfully and meaningfully with Indigenous communities across Ontario as well as those outside of the province.

The successful candidate will support the implementation of Bird’s Indigenous Engagement Policy and related initiatives, contributing to reconciliation-focused outcomes aligned with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, particularly Call to Action #92 related to corporate responsibility and economic reconciliation.

The Indigenous Relations Lead, reporting to the Bird Indigenous Relations Director. The position is based out of Mississauga, while requiring travel to support projects, internal teams, and Indigenous community engagement activities as needed.

This role is based out of office in Mississauga, Ontario.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Support the implementation of Bird’s Indigenous Engagement Policy, ensuring alignment with corporate commitments, client requirements, and Indigenous community priorities.

• Assist in coaching and mentoring Operations and Management teams on Indigenous protocols, cultural awareness, and respectful engagement practices.

• Support relationship-building initiatives with Indigenous communities that contribute to Indigenous employment, training, and long-term capacity development.

• Assist with the development and administration of Indigenous employment, training, and community investment programs.

• Support Indigenous Relations Leadership team and partner communities with grant applications, reporting, and administration related to project and community development.

• Assist in developing and maintaining respectful, long-term partnerships with Indigenous communities, organizations, and businesses.

• Maintain accurate records, logs, and documentation to support project teams in implementing Indigenous engagement plans.

• Attend career fairs, job fairs, community events, and conferences on behalf of Bird, and provide insights on trends, opportunities, and community feedback.

• Participate in internal and external meetings related to Indigenous relations and community engagement.

• Support Indigenous Relations initiatives, including participation in working groups focused on advancing Indigenous employment, training, and business opportunities.

• Develop presentations and support community information sessions related to Bird’s involvement in current and upcoming projects.

• Support the administration of Bird and Stuart Olson Indigenous scholarship programs.

• Support Ontario-based Indigenous communities, including First Nations and Métis communities.

• Support Indigenous communities in other regions of Canada as required, reflecting Bird’s national footprint and project portfolio.

• Assist project teams with the preparation of Indigenous Engagement Plans (IEP), Indigenous Participation Plans (IPP), and Indigenous Benefits Plans (IBP).

• Administer tracking and reporting of Indigenous participation project goals in alignment with Bird Indigenous Engagement Policy metrics, client requirements, and Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) reporting standards.

• Support national Indigenous Relations initiatives, including participation on Indigenous Relations sub-committees and maintaining the Indigenous Vendor List.

• Coordinate Indigenous Relations-related events, calendars, and internal initiatives.

• Perform other duties as required to support Bird’s reconciliation and Indigenous engagement commitments.

What We're Looking For:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in Indigenous relations, community engagement, social performance, workforce development, or a related field.

• Demonstrated experience working respectfully with Indigenous communities, organizations, or leadership.

• Strong relationship-building, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to prepare clear written materials, including reports, summaries, presentations, and meeting minutes.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a hybrid work environment.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Willingness and ability to travel as required

• Lived experience as an Indigenous person, or significant professional experience working directly with First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit communities is an asset.

• Post-secondary education in Indigenous Studies, Social Sciences, Public Administration, Business, Planning, or a related field is an asset.

• Familiarity with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action, UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and principles of economic reconciliation is an asset.

• Experience supporting Indigenous employment, training, procurement, or community investment initiatives is an asset.

• Experience supporting or contributing to CCIB certification, reporting, or Indigenous procurement programs is an asset.

• Knowledge of Indigenous engagement practices within infrastructure, construction, or resource-based sectors is an asset.

• Experience working in cross-functional corporate environments involving Operations, Business Development, and project teams is an asset.

Communities of Interest

• Primary focus on Ontario-based Indigenous communities, including First Nations and Métis communities.

• Support for Indigenous communities in other regions of Canada as required, reflecting Bird’s national footprint and project portfolio.

Our Commitment

Bird Construction is committed to advancing reconciliation and fostering respectful, long-term relationships with Indigenous Peoples. We encourage applications from Indigenous candidates and from individuals who share our commitment to collaboration, respect, and meaningful community benefit.

We Put Safety First

A healthy and safe work environment is non-negotiable. We build a culture of operational and psychological safety through engagement, learning and leadership.

We Lead With Honesty

We speak and act with integrity, clarity and care so people can trust our word and our work. Being honest means we can deliver the best outcomes and consistent results.

We Are Stronger Together

Success is a team effort. Our inclusive workplace enables our combined expertise, humility and creativity to unlock our greater potential.

We Are Driven To Do Great Work

We built our name on quality. We have a passion for excellence in our work and relationships that honours our businesses and our industry.

We Create Opportunity

Rooted in a solid foundation, we adapt and grow to face the future. We are committed to elevating each other to chart the best path forward in an evolving world.

Bird is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). This is a core part of our culture and guides our actions and strategic priorities. We strive to create an inclusive environment where every employee can thrive and share their unique perspectives and talents. Our ongoing commitments focus on addressing inequities and promoting a better understanding of diversity to build an inclusive and fair culture. We recognize that diverse teams are more knowledgeable, perform better, and achieve greater success. As such, we are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and creating opportunities for all employees to grow and succeed.