Communications Intern

Overview

Application Deadline: Ongoing, until position filled

Tentative Start Date: October 19 or November 2

Status: Full-time, Contract – 1 year (52 weeks total internship, 37.5 hours per week)

Are you a strong writer with an interest in learning new digital platform skills? If so, please read on.

The Invasive Species Centre (ISC) mobilizes action against invasive species that harm the environment, economy, and society. Incorporated as a not-for-profit in 2011 as a hub for collaboration and knowledge sharing, the ISC has grown into a respected collaborator and leader in invasive species knowledge and action. We rely on values of inclusion, innovation, stewardship, collaboration, and commitment to excellence to achieve our vision of a Canada where land and water are protected from invasive species.

If you are passionate about environmental protection, science communication, outreach and action, and enjoy working as part of an upbeat and fast-paced team, please follow the application instructions at the end of this posting.

Position Summary  

The Communications Intern’s objectives will be to amplify positive awareness of the ISC, its mandate and achievements, engage key partners, interested groups, and potential funders to help fuel ISC’s vision and mission, and facilitate evidence-based information sharing and information transfer about the important issue of invasive species with a strong emphasis on creating new website content, editing existing content, and overall optimizing of the Invasive Species Centre and project websites.

The intern will place valuable knowledge of invasive species into the hands of invasive species professionals and the public through written and multimedia content on the Invasive Species Centre and project websites, social media channels, in-person and digital events, and other publications. The intern will support the generation of external communications to engage new and existing audiences with credible, up-to-date information regarding invasive species issues and the Invasive Species Centre. The intern will also be well informed of science writing techniques and apply them to advance the Invasive Species Centre’s communications strategy.

Principal Accountabilities  

The communications intern will:

• Write accessible content for communications products such as media releases, blog posts, newsletters, social media, and reports
• Support the dissemination of communications products at in-person events, as well as through online platforms and email
• Support event planning for virtual, hybrid, and in-person events
• Validate communications products by researching, consolidating and analyzing policy, science, and technical information on invasive species
• Coordinate expert/peer review of communications products
• Identify new opportunities and opportunities to improve partner relationships
• Research and analyze key audiences, their information needs and opportunities for engagement
• Support the team with outreach inventory needs
• Monitor and evaluate external relations plans and activities using analytics and search engine optimization tools with predefined performance indicators to consolidate metrics and analyze results with respect to digital engagement, media contact, etc. and provide monthly reports
• Respond to or refer inquiries received by email and telephone
• Deliver outreach and/or education at events
• Other activities upon request

Minimum Qualifications 

The successful candidate will be a university or college graduate who has graduated within the last three years from an accredited college or university. The candidate must be a graduate of a post-secondary degree or diploma program. The position will be the first full-time employment in the candidate’s field of study.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Degree or diploma in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism and/or related education; and
• Bilingualism in either French, English or Indigenous languages and additional educational credentials and/or experience in natural or environmental sciences also considered assets.

Key Competencies  

• Excellent oral, written, and visual communication skills
• Understanding and experience in Canadian Press Style considered an asset
• Strong understanding of science writing
• Understanding of photography, videography, and web development and content management systems such as WordPresswould be considered an asset
• Understanding of digital technologies and emerging digital trends
• Strong computer proficiency and experience with Microsoft Office, social media platforms, email marketing applications and design/video software (i.e., Adobe Creative Cloud, Canva, etc.)
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Excited to learn and adapt quickly to new projects and tasks
• Ability to connect and communicate effectively with partners
• Demonstrate creativity, self-motivation and initiative
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and projects while producing high quality results

Other Requirements

• The candidate must be legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial legislation and regulations
• Candidates chosen for an interview may be asked to share a portfolio of past work
• The candidate may not have previously participated in an internship program and must be a recent graduate holding a diploma or degree from an accredited post-secondary institution
• Possess a valid Ontario driver’s license.  Access to a vehicle considered an asset as occasional travel may be required.
• The successful candidate will work from the Invasive Species Centre offices in Sault Ste. Marie. There is no opportunity for hybrid or remote work.

Instructions for Applicants 

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until position is filled.

Please submit your application package as a single PDF document. This document must include a cover letter (1 page maximum) and a resume describing your education and related work experience. Please submit via email to:

Lauren Rogers, Communications and Technology Coordinator

Invasive Species Centre, 1219 Queen Street East, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2E5

Email: careers@invasivespeciescentre.ca

No telephone calls please. Only candidates chosen for an interview will be contacted.

The Invasive Species Centre is an equal opportunity and accessible employer. The Invasive Species Centre will provide accommodation for candidates with disabilities during the recruitment process, upon request.

JOB PERKS: flex hours