Senior Administrative Officer
Town of Fort Smith, Northwest Territories
Status: Full-time Indeterminate
Closing Date: Open until filled, first review of applications on December 18,2025.
The Town of Fort Smith is seeking a forward-thinking municipal leader to serve as our next Senior Administrative Officer. This is a unique opportunity to lead a vibrant northern community with strong cultural roots, abundant recreational amenities, and a dedicated workforce that delivers essential public services with pride.
As the sole employee of Council, the SAO is accountable for the administration and delivery of all municipal operations. The role provides strategic leadership, trusted advice, and clear direction to support informed decision-making. The SAO ensures that Council’s decisions are implemented across the organization and that municipal programs and services are planned and delivered responsibly, sustainably, and in accordance with legislation, bylaws, policies, and Council direction.
About the Community
Fort Smith is a welcoming, culturally rich community located on the Slave River, surrounded by protected wilderness and directly bordering Wood Buffalo National Park. Although modest in size, Fort Smith offers amenities that surpass many larger northern centres, including full recreational facilities, extensive trails, Aurora College as a post-secondary campus, an active arts scene, and year-round opportunities for paddling, hiking, snow sports, and wildlife viewing. Residents enjoy a high quality of life supported by accessible services, community partnerships, and a shared commitment to learning, wellness, and sustainability.
About the Role
The SAO leads a highly committed senior management team, including the Directors of Municipal Services, Protective Services, Corporate Services, Community Services, and the Executive Secretary. Together with this team, the SAO oversees approximately 90 employees plus more than 30 trained Fire and EMS volunteers. The position manages annual operating and capital budgets exceeding $25 million, while ensuring financial accountability and transparent reporting to Council and the community.
The SAO represents the Town in intergovernmental and community relationships at the regional, territorial, and federal levels, and works with Indigenous governments, regulatory bodies, contractors, businesses, and local organizations. The role requires diplomacy, professionalism, confidentiality, and a commitment to ethical governance and responsible use of public resources.
Qualifications
Applicants are expected to have the following combination of skills, education, and experience:
• A master’s degree in public administration, business administration, management, or a related discipline, and at least seven years of progressive municipal or senior leadership experience; or an equivalent combination of education and senior-level experience
• Experience in municipal governance, administration, and public service delivery
• Knowledge of municipal legislation, bylaws, financial management, budgeting, public sector accounting, human resources, and project and contract management
• Understanding of northern governance, community dynamics, Indigenous relations, land claims, and municipal agreements
• Skill in communication, negotiation, community engagement, and conflict resolution
Applicants must already reside in Canada. A Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check will be required prior to employment.
Compensation and Benefits
• Salary range: $180,479 to $209,224, based on experience and qualifications
• Northern Allowance paid in addition to base salary
• Comprehensive benefits including extended health, dental, vision, life insurance, and paid leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Relocation allowance is available for the successful candidate
To Apply
Submit your resume and cover letter to humanresources@fortsmith.ca.
For more information about the community, please visit www.fortsmith.ca.
Job description available upon request.