Contract Position

Contract: Community Engagement and Learning Committee
Organization: Bras d'Or Lake Biosphere Region Association
Location: Eskasoni, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia / Hybrid

About the Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere

The Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere, comprising the lake and its watershed, is governed by the Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere Region Association (BLBRA). The BLB Biosphere was designated by UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Program (MAB) in 2011 and recertified in 2021. MAB is an intergovernmental program that aims to establish a scientific basis for the improvement of relationships between people and their environments. In our Biosphere region, we seek solutions which balance the conservation of the natural environment with its sustainable use. We are striving through education and community facilitation to make the Biosphere an international showcase for ‘how to do things right’. At present, the BLBRA, in collaboration with communities and organizations, is in a good position to develop a model of sustainability and community-based economic development in this special place called the Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere.

About the Contract

The Community Engagement and Learning Committee (CEAL) of the BLBRA is a very active committee focused on providing opportunities for education and land-based learning with the goal of engaging all peoples in the balanced and sustainable development of the exceptional cultural, social, environmental and economic assets within the Bras d’Or Lake watershed. Some of the projects that have been initiated include the development, distribution and facilitation of 24 teaching kits for three curriculum documents related to the Bras d’Or Lake, establishment of a water monitoring program for citizen scientists around the lake, installation of informative signage and Adventure Labs on trails in the region, distribution of species info graphics through digital channels, and facilitation of the interactive Bras d’Or Watch community events for participants to learn more about the lake ecology. It is activities like these that allow people of all ages around the Bras d’Or Lake, whether they are residents or visitors, to engage in observing, measuring, monitoring and learning more about the delicate ecology and characteristics of the Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere. The intent of this contract is to increase the frequency of engagement and extend the activities into more seasons throughout the year, thereby improving the awareness and appreciation for this special ecosystem.

About the Position

The individual hired for this 6-month contract starting in March, 2025 will be responsible for the organization and delivery of key deliverables as identified below in the scope of work. The facilitator will be expected to promote the activities and submit a report for each event with photos and metrics included. In addition to these deliverables, the individual may be asked to support other initiatives and expand on opportunities for engagement to keep moving forward with the BLBRA strategic plan.

Scope of Work (Minimum Deliverables)

1. Establish and support the start-up of 5 long-term water monitoring sites with volunteer citizen scientists who will take responsibility for monthly measurements in a chosen location in the Lake
2. Lead the Bras d’Or Watch sub-committee to organize at least 5 Bras d'Or Watch events by the end of August 2025 in collaboration with community volunteers
3. Develop a Bras d’Or Watch resource with guidelines and activities
4. Visit 8 or more schools and/or community groups/camps to facilitate sessions using the teaching kits
5. Support other initiatives related to community engagement and learning such as the Biosphere Expo, distribution of promotional materials, etc
6. Meet regularly with the Community Engagement and Learning Committee and provide monthly progress reports

Skills and Experience

• Ability to build relationships and respect different cultural contexts to engage inclusively with diverse populations
• Proficiency in both verbal and written communication, including public speaking, report writing, and social media management
• Strong organizational skills to plan and deliver events, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines
• Ability to devise plans that align with the organization's mission and benefit the community
• Familiarity with data collection and the use of tools for taking measurements
• Experience in creating educational materials and facilitating program delivery and workshops
• Ability to use digital channels to distribute information and promote events to engage with the community

Location of Work

The BLBRA office is located in Eskasoni, NS. Aspects of the work may be completed remotely, and exact terms can be negotiated, however in-person delivery is required for all activities and programs in the various communities in the Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere Region.

Education

The applicant must have a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree related to environmental sciences or equivalent experience.

Personal Suitability

• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Strong leadership skills and ability to collaborate with various communities
• Excellent organization, interpersonal, public speaking/ presentation, reporting and communication skills.

Terms of Contract

Reporting Relationship

The contractor communicates with the Chair of the Community Engagement and Learning Committee of the BLBRA.

Apply

To apply, please e-mail your resume and a brief covering letter to:
manager@blbra.ca
subject: Community Engagement and Learning

Applications will be accepted until 1159pm, February 16th, 2025. 

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