Why Shoulder Seasons Are a Great Time to Apply for Conservation Jobs in Canada

Shoulder seasons, those transitional periods between peak hiring times, like spring and fall, are an often-overlooked opportunity for conservation job seekers. While most people think of January or September as prime months to start their job hunt, shoulder seasons offer unique advantages that can help you stand out in a less crowded market.

Here’s why applying for environmental jobs in Canada during these times of year can give you an edge:

1. Less Competition

During peak hiring seasons, job postings often attract a flood of applications, making it harder for yours to stand out. In shoulder seasons, however, fewer people are actively looking for jobs, which increases the likelihood of your application getting noticed.

2. Conservation Organizations Are Still Hiring

Although hiring may slow down slightly in shoulder seasons, businesses still have roles to fill. Often, these openings are for positions that weren’t filled during peak hiring or are the result of unforeseen needs. Conservation organizations may be eager to fill roles quickly, speeding up the hiring process.

3. A Strategic Time for Networking

Shoulder seasons provide a quieter period for networking. With fewer applicants flooding organizations’ inboxes, professionals in your industry may have more bandwidth to respond to inquiries and attend networking events. Building relationships during this time can help you bypass the formal application process.

4. Preparation for Busy Periods

Many conservation organizations use shoulder seasons to prepare for upcoming busy periods, such as the holiday rush or the start of a new fiscal year. This means they’re actively looking to onboard talent to ensure they’re fully staffed when things ramp up. Getting hired during this time positions you as part of the team before the workload intensifies. You’ll have time to settle into the role and make a positive impression.

5. It Shows Initiative

Applying during shoulder seasons demonstrates that you’re proactive and don’t follow the crowd. This can make a strong impression on hiring managers, who value candidates willing to think outside the box. Conservation organizations recognize and appreciate individuals who seize opportunities, regardless of timing.

6. Organizations Are More Accessible

Organizations and hiring managers often face fewer deadlines and less pressure during shoulder seasons. This can make them more responsive to inquiries and more willing to engage in meaningful conversations about your application. You’re more likely to receive thoughtful feedback or guidance. Organizations can focus more on finding the right fit rather than processing high volumes of applications.

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WorkCabin

Gregg McLachlan is the founder of WorkCabin. He's also a professional conservation videographer and photographer. Through his conservation-based digital content production company WorkCabin Creative, he has worked in the field since 2010 with some of Canada's leading conservation organizations to tell their stories of research, programs, and causes

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