Position Overview
Ontario Nature is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated individual for the position of Wetland Conservation Intern for an 8-month contract starting in July, 2024. The Wetland Conservation Intern will support research, communications and outreach on wetland conservation with a primary focus on identifying and promoting policies and practices that will enhance wetland protection while raising awareness of the biodiversity and climate change mitigation benefits of wetlands. They will work closely with the Conservation Planning Coordinator and the communications team who will provide guidance and mentorship.
The ideal candidate has strong communications skills and a keen interest in biodiversity conservation. The ability to work well as part of a small team, as well as independently, is required.
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: ontarionature.org.
Why Work with Ontario Nature
- Flexible work hours and location, in accordance with our Remote Work Policy
- Strong organizational values with commitment to upholding them at all levels of the organization
- Progressive workspace and membership perks at the Centre for Social Innovation in Toronto
- 2 paid personal leave days, 1 paid sick day per month and 4 paid days off in addition to statutory holidays during our office closure in late December
- Fulfilling, purpose-driven work, alongside 30 passionate and committed colleagues
- An ongoing commitment to create an inclusive and equitable environment for employees, volunteers, members, and supporters
- Opportunities for advancement, skill development and cross-sectoral collaboration
- Support for taking initiative and pursuing aligned personal interest projects
- Team building and social opportunities
Principal Responsibilities
- Assist with online research and the preparation of a report about municipal and Conservation Authority policies and practices in Ontario that could serve as best practice examples to conserve wetlands. 
- Develop online communications materials (e.g., blogs, social media posts, infographics, e-newsletters) to promote the report and raise awareness of the biodiversity, climate and economic benefits of wetland conservation.
- Assist with the preparation and delivery of interactive online sessions for community groups and municipal staff and leaders to present and discuss the report.
- Support collaborations with other environmental organizations and community groups working on wetland policy and conservation issues.
- Assist with responses to inquiries and requests for information about wetland conservation.
- Contribute to team discussions about communications strategies and raising broader public awareness of and support for wetland conservation.
Qualifications
- Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- Interest in and familiarity with environmental policy.
- Excellent research skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
- Experience communicating with diverse audiences, on-and off-line.
- Ability to work well independently and within a small team.
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to the conservation and protection of Ontario’s wild species and wild spaces.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
- Must meet requirements for ECO Canada:
- Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
- Valid Social Insurance Number and be legally entitled to work in Canada.
- Between 15 and 30 years of age.
- Post-secondary graduate.
Desirable Assets
- Experience with visual communications and design, including with the Canva graphic design platform.
- Working knowledge of ArcGIS.
- Experience working or volunteering for the non-profit sector.
Anticipated Start Date: July 2, 2024
Type of Position: 8-month contract, full-time
Compensation: $21.00/hour
Location: This position is based out of Ontario Nature’s Head Office – 720 Bathurst Street, Toronto, ON. This position can work remotely within Ontario in accordance with our operational Remote Work Policy, however the selected candidate must be willing to work from the head office occasionally for team meetings and as requested.
To Apply
- Include your resume, cover letter and three references in one PDF document, addressing your qualifications and experience
- Include “Wetland Conservation Intern” in the subject line
- Email your application to jobs@ontarionature.org
- Deadline for applications: May 22, 2024
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.
