News
NOTICE OF OPPORTUNITY
1-Year Contract for Project Management Services
Background
Hydro One Networks Inc. (Hydro One) is proposing to build the Waasigan Transmission Line Project, a new transmission line between Thunder Bay and Dryden (the “Project”). The Project is currently in the development stage with construction expected to start in 2024. The construction contractor has not been
selected yet. More information on the project can be found at www.hydroOne.com/waasigan.
The following 8 First Nations have formed a partnership called Gwayakocchigewin LP (“GLP”) to jointly
engage with Hydro One and participate in the ownership and development of the Project:
1. Eagle Lake First Nation
2. Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation
3. Lac La Croix First Nation
4. Fort William First Nation
5. Seine River First Nation
6. Lac Seul First Nation
7. Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation
8. Ojibway Nation of Saugeen
Description of Services
GLP is intends to enter a contract for the supply of project management services, with such service provider representing the GLP First Nations in oversight and development of the Project. Project development activities include environmental, permitting, Indigenous engagement, engineering, community readiness, and construction readiness. The service provider will work closely with Hydro One’s
Project Delivery Team, which has ultimate responsibility for the Project. This support position also provides an opportunity to build capacity and gain experience on a major project development. The specific responsibilities of the service provider will include:
• Participating in Hydro One Project Delivery Team meetings including (but not limited to):
-Project management
-Environmental and other permitting
-Project design & planning
-Construction readiness
-Community readiness
• Providing Hydro One Project Delivery Team continuous input on First Nations expectations and strategies to meet them
• Managing GLP Protection Committee meetings• Liaising between the GLP Protection Committee and Hydro One Project Delivery Team
• Liaising with the each of the GLP First Nation’s Community Engagement Coordinators (CECs)
• Facilitating the sharing of information between the Hydro One Project Delivery team, and GLP
• Monitoring and tracking Project activities, timelines, and issues
• Reporting to the GLP Board on Project activities, timelines, and ongoing issues that require resolution
• GLP document controls
• Supporting the GLP Implementation Officer on GLP legal/financial matters
Qualifications
• Post-secondary education
• Experience in project or program management
• Experience in environmental, engineering, or construction fields
• Multi-tasking and time management
• Excellent computer skills including MS Office programs
• Superior communication skills, both written and oral
• Strong understanding of First Nation history, culture, and protocols in the First Nations territories where the project is located
• Ability to speak Ojibway language considered an asset
• Knowledge of Manito Aki Inakonigaawin principles considered an asset
• Significant experience working in First Nation communities and with Indigenous peoples, particularly in the First Nations territories where the project is located.
• Located in Northwestern Ontario
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable, personal vehicle.
Contract Location
The Project location is from Thunder Bay to Dryden, with community engagement meetings expected throughout the area. Most project management meetings are expected to be held virtually, with some in person meetings in Thunder Bay and Toronto. GLP does not have staff or an office for the service provider to use. As an independent contractor, the service provider is expected to work from their own office.
Compensation
GLP will pay an annual fee of $80,000 in bi-weekly installments. Where the contract is terminated midyear, the fee payable to the service provider shall be pro-rated according to the number of months the service provider has worked in that year. The service provider is expected to provide their own computer, phone, software, and other hardware typical in providing professional services. GLP will reimburse all other reasonable expenses required to carry out the services including travel, meals, and accommodations. The service provider is responsible for all its statutory deductions for EI, CPP and tax.
Start Date and Term
The expected contract start date may be as soon as September 1, 2022. There will be a transition period where the service provider will work closely with the GLP Implementation Officer to integrate into the GLP team and Waasigan project structure. GLP expects the services to be required for the duration of the development and construction of the Project. As such, the contract will be reviewed prior to its annual expiration to discuss extending the term.
Application
Applications shall include a cover letter describing the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and interest in the contract. The application will also include a resume and references.
Applications can be sent to Ginny Michano: [email protected]
This position will remain open until filled.