Forest Economics Intern

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.
We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.
Visit the OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.
We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?

Working within a team, you will support the Forest Economics Section of the Forest Economics and Business Branch to provide sound policy and economics analysis in matters affecting Ontario's forest industry and emerging forest bioeconomy by:
• Assisting in conducting research and analysis on topics related to social and economic aspects of the forest products sector and the emerging forest bioeconomy.
• Assisting in conducting environmental scanning regarding social, economic, environmental, and political trends and events at a variety of scales (local, regional, provincial, national, continental, and global.
• Assist with the Ministry's monitoring of international trade issues, such as the softwood lumber dispute.
• Assisting in the preparation of discussion papers, fact sheets, development of options and recommendations, presentation materials, briefing notes and correspondence.
• As a contributing member, participating on policy and program development teams, committees, and project working groups in the development of strategies, programs and procedures to meet MNRF objectives.
• Assisting in the drafting and review of technical guidelines, procedures and policies.
• Maintaining awareness of major social, economic, trends, issues and innovations affecting the forest sector in Ontario.
• Keeping abreast of new developments, technologies and government programs related to the forest products and forest bioproducts sector, canvassing other jurisdictions, and reviewing relevant legislation, regulation, policy and program delivery framework.
• Responding to information requests (e.g. outside stakeholders, clients, other government and non-government agencies, Freedom of Information etc.) by researching and synthesizing relevant source material (e.g., files, reports, program specialists within and beyond MNRF, etc.) and preparing written response;
• Organizing, manipulating, and analysing research data, such as statistical analyses to project trends and identify emerging issues and options to resolve issues.
• Supporting business services team by documenting internal policies and procedures related to invoicing and recording of revenues, receivables and cash receipts and disbursements from forestry trusts.
Managers have the right to assign additional duties.

How do I qualify?

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of and interest in economic theory with an emphasis on Forest Economics to be able to conduct analysis and evaluate policy initiatives.
• Knowledge of Ontario's forest industry, its economic significance and emerging trends would be an asset.
• Understanding of policy research methods.
• Knowledge of statistics and statistical software.
• Knowledge of analytical, information management, data modelling and problem-solving techniques to review available information and offer recommendations and advice.
• Proficiency in personal computers, Microsoft Office software and the internet to be able to search for information, prepare reports, and conduct analyses.
• Oral and written communication skills to prepare and present policy and program materials and reports for a diverse audience.
• Interpersonal skills to work and consult with others as part of a team.
• Flexibility to participate in a broad range of activities and manage own time effectively.

Eligibility:

• Proof of eligibility to work in Canada.
• Has graduated or will graduate from an approved or legally authorized college or university with a degree, diploma or postgraduate certificate within the last four years.
• Candidates are only eligible to participate in one MNRF 12-month placement and must not have participated in the MNRF internship program in the past.
• Are not a permanent employee in the OPS.

Additional Information:

Successful candidates may be required to undergo an employment screening check in accordance with the Ontario Employment Screening Checks Policy.