Community Science Intern
Job Description
The Community Science Intern will work closely with Ontario Nature staff to support increased involvement of Indigenous and local communities and individuals in the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (Atlas-3), with a particular emphasis on increasing data collection in areas of conservation interest. This will involve developing and supporting partnerships among Atlas-3 partner organizations, regional coordinators, atlas surveyors, and Indigenous and local communities and organizations.
The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of wildlife and in particular breeding birds in Ontario. They work well independently and as part of a team and thrive in a fast-paced work environment where success requires close attention to detail, flexibility, strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to high quality outcomes. They show commitment 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 over 150 member groups and more than 30,000 individual members and supporters throughout the province. To learn more about Ontario Nature, visit: www.ontarionature.org.
Principal Responsibilities
- Assist with training and field work for the Community Science Program, with an emphasis on supporting bird surveys in areas of conservation interest.
- Assist with sharing Atlas-3 collection methods with Indigenous and local community volunteers.
- Support the delivery of Community Science field trips (in spring 2022, gathering restrictions permitting) to create diverse opportunities for volunteer involvement in bird education and volunteer surveys. Events will be held in several communities across northwestern Ontario, focusing on the Thunder Bay region and in collaboration with other local organizations.
- Organize data submitted to Atlas-3, as needed.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated interest in conservation in Ontario.
- Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science or a relevant field.
- Strong knowledge of breeding birds in Ontario and their identification.
- Experience with compiling information on conservation lands including natural features, threats, species at risk and invasive species.
- Experience with detailed notetaking, data collection and entry, and data quality assurance.
- Good verbal and written communications skills, including active listening.
- Ability to work well independently within a small team structure and collaboratively with partners.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in sometimes challenging conditions (e.g., high temperatures and humidity, heavy rain, dense bugs) and terrains.
- Valid class “G” driver’s license and ability to rent a vehicle in Ontario.
- Must live in Thunder Bay.
Ontario Nature requires that all employees are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to ensure the health and safety of our employees and the communities we operate in. The selected candidate must provide proof of vaccination at the time of hiring.
As a position funded by Colleges and Institutes Canada, applicants must also meet the following criteria:
- Post-secondary graduate
- No more than 30 years of age at the start of the internship
- Canadian citizens, permanent residents or persons granted refugee status in Canada
- Legally allowed to work according to the relevant provincial and Canadian legislation regulations
- Available to work for at least six months
- Cannot be a previous participant of a Science Horizon Internship
Desirable assets
- Experience conducting breeding bird surveys.
- Working knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software.
Anticipated start date: November 8, 2021
Duration of position: This is a full-time one-year contract position ending in November 2022
Payment: $16-$18/hr
Location: The position will be based at Ontario Nature’s Boreal Office – 10 Cumberland St N, Thunder Bay, ON, with flexibility to work remotely.
Working conditions: Responsibilities for this position require flexibility to accommodate occasional weekend and evening work for meetings and events.
To apply
- Include your resume, cover letter and three references in one document, addressing your qualifications and experience
- Include “Community Science Intern” in the subject line
- Submit your application by email to the attention of Julee Boan, Boreal Program Manager: jobs@ontarionature.org
- Deadline for applications: October 27, 2021
Although Ontario Nature appreciates the efforts of all those who apply for this position, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 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.
Bookmark Job
You must sign in to bookmark this listing.