Member, International Pacific Halibut Commission

The International Pacific Halibut Commission was established in 1923 by a Convention between the governments of Canada and the United States of America. Its mandate is to conduct research and to implement management practices to preserve the stocks of Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) within the Convention waters of both nations. The International Pacific Halibut Commission conducts biological research and monitoring to further the understanding of Pacific halibut biology and to collect information for stock assessment.

Commissioners represent Canada to the International Pacific Halibut Commission and recommend regulatory measures to governments in accordance with scientific advice in order to effectively manage halibut resources in the North Pacific Ocean.

Diversity and Official Languages

We are committed to providing a healthy and accessible workplace that supports one’s dignity, self-esteem and the ability to achieve one’s full potential. With this in mind, all appointees will be expected to take steps to promote and maintain a healthy, respectful, inclusive and harassment-free work environment.

Preference may be given to applicants who are members of one or more of the following groups: women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of a visible minority group.

The Government of Canada will consider bilingual proficiency and diversity in assessing applicants. You are therefore encouraged to include in your online profile your ability to speak and understand your second official language.

Education and Experience

• A combination of relevant education, job-related training and / or experience equivalent to that normally obtained through a university degree or a degree from a recognized university in a relevant field of study;


• Experience in bilateral and / or multilateral negotiations;


• Experience related to Pacific halibut and related fisheries such as:




• Conservation;


• Traditional ecological knowledge;


• Fisheries policy and management;


• Academic studies in science;


• Academic studies in environmental law.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Extensive current knowledge of the Canadian halibut fishery;


• Technical and / or traditional ecological knowledge associated with the halibut fishery;


• Demonstrated skills in diplomacy (e.g., respect for the interests and views of others including intercultural understanding);


• Ability to broadly represent the interests of Canada with respect to the halibut fishery;


• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;


• Ability to work efficiently, independently, as well as within a team; and


• Demonstrated ability to compromise to seek common solutions to complex issues.

Language Requirements

Proficiency in both official languages would be preferred.

• High ethical standards and integrity


• Sound judgment


• Impartiality


• Tact


• Discretion

Eligibility Factors and Conditions of Employment

• Appointees must comply with the Ethical and Political Activity Guidelines for Public Office Holders throughout their appointment as a term and condition of employment. The guidelines are available on the Governor in Council Appointments website, under Forms and reference material.


• All appointees will be subject to the Conflict of Interest Act. Public office holders appointed on a full-time basis must also submit to the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner, within 60 days of appointment, a confidential report in which they disclose all of their assets, liabilities and outside activities. For more information, please visit the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner's website.


• Appointees must uphold the highest standards of probity and are expected to demonstrate behaviors in the workplace that afford respect, equality and dignity, to everyone they interact with at work at all times. The Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector outlines the values and expected behaviors for public servants, including valuing diversity and creating workplaces free from harassment and discrimination. Governor in Council appointees are expected to uphold and respect these values and principles in a positive and active manner.


• Commissioners must have access to high-speed internet.

A link to this notice will be placed in the Canada Gazette to assist the Governor in Council in identifying qualified candidates. It is not, however, intended to be the sole means of recruitment.

A list of qualified candidates may be established and may be used for similar opportunities.

How to Apply

Review of applications (more information here) will begin on April 25, 2024. Candidates should apply online via the Governor in Council Appointments website. Candidates are strongly encouraged to submit their applications by this date. After this date, your application will be retained and may be considered up until an appointment to the position is made. Your cover letter should be addressed to the Director of Selection Processes, Senior Personnel Secretariat, Privy Council Office, and should be sent only through the online application.

Instructions on how to apply for an appointment opportunity can be found on the Governor in Council Appointments website.