Conservation Intern

Taking care of our environment has never been more important than it is today. The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is looking for a Conservation Technician to join a team committed to protecting our most important natural areas and the species they sustain.

Since 1962, NCC and its supporters have protected 15 million hectares of ecologically significant land across Canada. NCC takes a collaborative, science-based approach to achieve conservation success for the sake of nature and Canadians. With a national office in Toronto and local offices across the country, NCC delivers results you can walk on.

Purpose and General Description:

Are you passionate about conserving some of Ontario’s most important natural spaces? Do you want to have a positive, lasting impact on nature? Are you looking for a well-rounded position to kick-start your conservation career with hands on experience? We want to hear from you!

NCC is looking for two passionate individuals to join the Large Landscapes stewardship team as a Conservation Technician. Working closely with NCC’s Large Landscape Program Coordinator and Assistant Conservation Biologist, this internship position will help the stewardship team conduct fieldwork in the Central Ontario Corridors and Great Northern Clay Belt Natural Areas, process field data, and prepare reports. There are also opportunities to work closely with partner organizations, local stewards, and volunteers. This position is intended to provide an inspiring, learning-focused environment for a junior professional.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participate in a variety of fieldwork on NCC’s Hastings Wildlife Junction and Boreal Wildlands properties including:
  • Monitoring biodiversity targets (e.g. species at risk, vegetation communities) and threats (e.g. invasive species);
  • Removing invasive plant species using manual and chemical control methods
  • Conducting property inspections to check for natural disturbances, vandalism, trespassing, emerging threats, and risks and liabilities;
  • General property maintenance including trail monitoring and maintenance, sign and gate installation, and building inspections;
• Data entry, analysis, research and reporting using Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and an internal database system;
• Assist with volunteer and property steward management; engage with community members, volunteers and property users;
• Assist with fieldwork on other Large Landscape properties (or potential properties) across Ontario.
• Assist with volunteer and property steward management;

Required Skills and Attributes:

This posting is targeted to individuals possessing the following skills:

• Passionate about conserving nature;
• Love for being outdoors and the ability to work for extended periods in various weather conditions and over rough terrain;
• Willingness to learn and follow protocols;
• Comfort working remotely and self-motivated to work independently;
• Excellent organizational skills;
• Proficient with data management and spreadsheet software;
• Physical work will be required (e.g., strenuous hiking, carrying backpack sprayer, etc.);
• Valid class “G” driver’s license, ability to rent a vehicle and comfort driving on highways and rough roads.

The following additional skills and abilities would be assets in this position but are not required to apply. Training will be provided by NCC to further develop these skills:

• Basic knowledge of plants, wildlife and vegetation communities as well as experience using identification keys;
• Navigational skills including understanding of GPS devices or applications, compass, and air photo interpretation;
• Experience engaging with members of the public or volunteers;
• Standard First Aid - Level C CPR certification.

Terms of Employment:

• Subject to funding, this is a 23-week position from April 29, 2024 until October 4, 2024;
• Compensation: $20.70/hour;
• Position will be based out of Hastings County & area (e.g. Peterborough, Curve Lake, Bancroft, Belleville) with regular travel to Hastings County;
• Depending on where the intern is based, access to a personal vehicle may be required to travel to and from a daily meeting location when conducting field work.
• The position may require occasional weekend and evening work;
• Positions will include desk-based work that will be completed in a work from home setting.

To Apply:

NCC is an equal opportunity employer. If you are interested in joining our team, please submit your application through our Internship Program page in our Career Centre.