Full job description
The River Institute is seeking dynamic team member as a Science Communications & Technical Assistant for an existing vacant position.
Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract: Full-time contract to Dec 31st, 2026 (possible extension upon confirmation of program funding).
Anticipated start date: May 1st, 2026
Hourly wage: Range $24.98 – $27.30 per hour (including mandatory employment benefits)
Location / work arrangement: On-site preferred (2 St. Lawrence Drive, Cornwall, Ontario)
How to Apply:Interested candidates should send a cover letter outlining their interests and relevant experience, along with their resume to: resume@riverinstitute.ca
Closing Date: April 24, 2026
Please note, applicants must currently be legally entitled to work in Canada. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
River Institute Background:
Located in Cornwall, Ontario, the River Institute is a not-for-profit, charitable organization dedicated to research, education, and community outreach focused on protecting and conserving the St. Lawrence River and other freshwater ecosystems. Our team is energetic and collaborative, fostering a supportive environment for staff and partners. Learn more about our work at riverinstitute.ca.
Job Description:
The Science Communications & Technical Assistant plays an integral role in supporting scientific and communications activities at the River Institute and translating science for public-facing programs. This position is responsible for distilling complex scientific and technical information into clear, engaging, and accessible materials for a wide range of audiences, including community members, Indigenous partners, decision‑makers, and the media.
The position contributes primarily to the St. Lawrence River (Cornwall/Akwesasne) Area of Concern Remedial Action Plan (RAP) program and supports the compilation of technical information to assess restoration goals and its effective translation into newsletters, presentations, website content, media materials, and public outreach initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
1. Support the St. Lawrence River RAP Program
Working closely with the RAP Coordinator, the successful candidate will:
· Provide research and analytical support related to the status of Beneficial Use Impairments (BUIs) in the St. Lawrence River Area of Concern, including collecting, organizing and summarizing data and information generated by agencies and partner organizations;
· Assist in preparing technical reports related to various BUIs, and support the translation of those reports into plain‑language summaries and public‑facing materials;
· Participate in RAP working groups and committees to provide technical and communications advice;
· Lead the development of RAP communications by translating scientific and technical content into accessible formats, including newsletters, newspaper spreads, website updates, videos, presentations, press releases, radio advertisements, and social media content;
· Support outreach and engagement activities, including participating in community meetings and delivering clear, audience‑appropriate presentations on RAP progress and outcomes;
· Work collaboratively with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Environment Program to support the exchange of western science and Traditional Ecological Knowledge related to the St. Lawrence River (Cornwall/Akwesasne) RAP;
· Support engagement with the Akwesasne community, including the development of Akwesasne‑focused communications materials;
· Maintain and develop content for the RAP website (https://stlawrenceriverrap.ca/);
· Coordinate RAP‑related community outreach activities and events, including special events, displays, fairs, festivals, and presentations; and
· Support communication activities related to the Cornwall Sediment Strategy, including preparing updates and reports for project partners, the public, property owners, and other stakeholders.
2. Research Support
· Assist with research and communications‑related activities across the organization as required.
3. Other Duties Perform other related duties as assigned.
Who Should Apply?
This position is ideal for someone who combines scientific understanding with strong communication and relationship-building skills. You may be an early- to mid-career professional who enjoys working with technical information and is equally interested in translating science into clear, engaging presentations and communication materials that support public understanding and informed dialogue.
You are a strong fit if you:
Enjoy distilling complex scientific findings into accessible newsletters, presentations, media content, and visual materials;
Are comfortable working within collaborative, multi‑partner processes where progress can be iterative and includes receiving and responding to diverse feedback;
Value respectful engagement, careful listening, and clear communication as essential tools for advancing environmental protection and restoration; and
Are motivated by applied science with real‑world impact and long‑term ecosystem and community outcomes.
Qualifications
· The ideal candidate will hold a college diploma or university degree in biological, environmental science or other relevant discipline.
· Strong communication and scientific report writing skills are essential for both technical and public-oriented audiences
· The candidate should possess a high degree of computer literacy, including broad knowledge of software programs for word-processing, spreadsheets and communication.
· Previous experience with working with First Nations an asset.
· Knowledge of R and ArcGIS is an asset.
· Knowledge of Adobe Illustrator is an asset.
· A valid driver’s license is required.
Reports to: Program Lead for Research and Community Engagement with work planning and day-to-day guidance provided by the Remedial Action Plan Program Coordinator.
Equity and Accessibility
The St. Lawrence River Institute is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and diverse workplace where all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. We believe that diversity strengthens innovation, enhances scientific excellence, and deepens our connection to the communities we serve.
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, members of LGBTQ2S+ communities, and others who may contribute to the diversification of our organization.
The River Institute is dedicated to providing an accessible recruitment process. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates participating in all stages of the selection process. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@riverinstitute.ca
Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 8 months
Pay: $24.98-$27.30 per hour
Expected hours: 35 per week
Work Location: In person
