CONSERVATION INTERNS
REGION: Ontario
POSITION TITLE: Conservation Intern
NUMBER OF POSITIONS: 10 (funding dependent)
TYPE OF POSITION: Seasonal (4-6 months within April – September timeframe)
LOCATIONS: Peterborough/Kingston (3), Peterborough (3), Guelph (3), Port Rowan or London (1)
The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is a private, non-profit organization that prides itself on its entrepreneurial, science-based approach to achieving conservation success through direct action. Since 1962, NCC and its supporters have protected more than 2.6 million acres (1 million hectares) of ecologically significant land across Canada. NCC focuses on conservation through private action, and has a strong track record of partnering with individuals, corporations, community groups, conservation groups and government bodies to create win-win solutions that benefit nature.
PURPOSE AND GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Conservation Interns will work closely with NCC Coordinators- Conservation Biology across Ontario to support conservation programs. The Conservation Interns will assist in the implementation of the stewardship and management program for significant natural lands protected by NCC across Ontario, by working closely with NCC staff, partner organizations, local stewards and volunteers.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct baseline inventories and vegetation community classification for NCC properties;
- Conduct annual property inspections to ensure early detection and management of natural disturbances, vandalism, trespassing, emerging threats, and risks and liabilities;
- Monitor biodiversity targets (e.g. of conservation easements;
- Implement recommended stewardship and management actions on NCC properties, with a focus on invasive species monitoring and removal, assisting with volunteer events, developing communication materials, and installing property signs;
- Assist with developing and writing property management plans, conservation easement monitoring reports, effectiveness monitoring reports;
- Assist with data collection, data entry, analysis and reporting as required to develop and implement property management plans
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
This posting is targeted to individuals possessing the following skills:
- Demonstrated interest in conservation issues in Ontario
- Experience/knowledge in compiling information on natural areas, including land tenure, natural features, threats etc.;
- Ability to identify common Ontario plants, wildlife and vegetation communities as well as experience using dichotomous identification keys;
- Excellent written and oral communication skills;
- Highly motivated, analytical and detail oriented; creative, pro-active thinker;
- Ability to work well within team structure;
- Experience working with volunteers;
- Proficient with word processing, desktop publishing, and spreadsheet software;
- Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in various weather conditions (e.g. high summer temperatures and humidity, heavy rain) and on various terrain;
- Able to carry heavy equipment;
- Navigational skills including experience with field GPS unit, compass, and air photo interpretation;
- Valid class “G” driver’s license and ability to rent a vehicle in Ontario;
The following additional skills and abilities would be assets in these positions:
- Experience/knowledge of the Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario;
- Standard First Aid - Level C CPR first-aid certification;
- Pesticide exterminator license;
- Experience using chainsaws, brush cutters, farm utility vehicles, power tools, lawn tractors and other mechanized stewardship equipment; experience driving pick up trucks and utility trailers
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
- This is a full-time (35hrs/week), position within the period of Wednesday, April 1, 2015
– Wednesday, September 30, 2015 (with the possibility of extension)
· ~$16.00/hour
- Positions are based out of Ottawa or Peterborough (3 positions), Peterborough (3), Guelph (3), Port Rowan or London (1), but will involve travel to and from field sites including overnights away from the home office location. Some weekend and evening work will be required.
TO APPLY
Applications should be submitted to: ontario@natureconservancy.ca [1]
In your submission email, please include the following:
- Email subject: “2015 Conservation Intern Application”;
- If you are available to work out of any NCC office or which location(s) you are limited to (Peterborough/Kingston, Peterborough, Guelph, Port Rowan or London);
- The dates you are available to work (e.g. May 1 – Aug 30; Apr 1 – Sept 30)
- One document with your cover letter and resume
Application Deadline: Friday, February 15, 2015
Late applications will not be considered.
No telephone calls please. We thank everyone who applies for their interest in the Nature Conservancy of Canada; however only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.