Summer jobs, Student jobs

Position: Protected Places Intern
Organization: Ontario Nature
Location: This position can work remotely within Ontario but must be willing to work from the Toronto office occasionally for team meetings and as requested.

[img1Position Overview

Ontario Nature is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated individual for the position of Protected Places Intern for a 10-month contract starting in May 2025. This position supports the delivery of Ontario Nature’s efforts to advance protection of Ontario’s lands and waters, in the spirit and practice of reconciliation. The Protected Places Intern will contribute to the short and long-term goals of the Protected Places Program by supporting spatial and policy analyses, research, development of communications materials and outreach on protected areas. The intern will work closely with the Conservation Policy and Campaigns Director, Protected Places Coordinators and the Protected Places Assessment Coordinator to advance objectives of our Protected Places Program.

The ideal candidate has excellent research and writing skills, demonstrates an ability to work well independently and with a team, and is committed to advancing nature protection and reconciliation among Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

About Ontario Nature

Ontario Nature is a charitable conservation organization that protects wild species and wild spaces across Ontario through conservation, education and public engagement. We represent 150 member groups, and more than 30,000 individual members and supporters throughout the province. We are there wherever and whenever nature needs us most. To learn more, visit: ontarionature.org.

Why Work with Ontario Nature

• Flexible work hours and location, in accordance with our Remote Work Policy
• Strong organizational values with commitment to upholding them at all levels of the organization
• Progressive workspace and membership perks at the Centre for Social Innovation in Toronto
• December office closure including 4 paid days off in addition to statutory holidays
• Paid personal leave days and sick days
• Fulfilling, purpose-driven work, alongside 30 passionate and committed colleagues
• An ongoing commitment to create an inclusive and equitable environment for employees, volunteers, members and supporters
• Opportunities for advancement, skill development and cross-sectoral collaboration
• Support for taking initiative and pursuing aligned personal interest projects
• Team building and social opportunities

Principal Responsibilities

• Undertake spatial analyses, mapping and mining assessments of candidate protected areas of interest and other spatial data related to forestry management, mining and land tenure.
• Assist with assessments of conservation lands, including their biodiversity values (habitats, species) to determine whether they meet criteria to be eligible to be included in Canada’s Protected and Conserved Areas Database. This will involve sharing information with land use managers, interpreting natural heritage policy, and using GIS to identify, measure and assess vegetation cover.
• Assist with organizing online meetings with Indigenous communities, provincial or municipal government staff, industry and local community groups to present opportunities for expanding protected areas.
• Assist with the preparation of communications tools to build understanding and support for expanding protected areas.
• Assist with responses to inquiries and requests for information about the opportunities for expanding protected areas.
• Contribute to staff discussions about communication strategies and means of raising broader public awareness and support for protected areas.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in progress or completed in a relevant field.
• Experience with ArcGIS, including spatial analyses and map creation.
• Excellent research and writing skills.
• Experience communicating to diverse audiences, on- and off-line.
• Experience with online research (accessing, reviewing, compiling and referencing information).
• Ability to prioritize work and manage several tasks with multiple deadlines.
• Ability to work as a team member and independently (with attention to detail), seeking assistance/input as required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs and social networking tools.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
• Demonstrated interest in conservation in Ontario.
• Meet requirements for Canada Summer Jobs funding:
  • Between the ages of 15-30 (inclusive) at the beginning of the employment period
  • Canadian citizen, permanent resident or person granted refugee status in Canada
  • Have a valid Social Insurance Number and be legally entitled to work in Canada

Desirable Assets

• Experience working or volunteering in northern Ontario or in the resource management sector.
• Experience with visual communications and design.
• Experience working on environmental campaigns.
• Experience working or volunteering in the non-profit sector.

Anticipated Start Date: May 2025

Type of Position: 10-month contract, full-time

Compensation: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour, commensurate with experience

Location: This position is based at Ontario Nature’s Head Office – 720 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON. This position can work remotely within Ontario in accordance with our Remote Work Policy. The selected candidate must be willing to work from the head office occasionally for team meetings and as requested.

Working Conditions: This position requires occasional travel across Ontario and may require weekend and evening work. Lieu time may be accrued for this. The role requires extensive sitting, typing and time spent viewing computer screens.

To Apply

• Include your resume, cover letter and three references in one PDF document, addressing your qualifications and experience
• Include “Protected Places Intern” in the email subject line
• Email your application to jobs@ontarionature.org
• Deadline for applications: April 29, 2025, 11:59 p.m.

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Although Ontario Nature appreciates the efforts of all those who apply for this position, we will contact only those selected for an interview. No unsolicited emails or phone calls please.

Ontario Nature is committed to employment equity, diversity and accessibility. Requests for disability-related accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should make their requirements known when contacted.