Nature Reserves GIS Intern

The Nature Reserves GIS Intern will assist with our Nature Reserve Program, which aims to protect and conserve imperiled and vulnerable habitats across Ontario. This program protects 26 nature reserves and 3 conservation easements stretching from Pelee Island to Deep River, Ontario. The intern will contribute to short and long-term goals of the Nature Reserves program by developing cartographic products for management plans for these properties. This will include management of spatial and tabular data for biodiversity targets (e.g. species at risk, rare habitats) and stewardship actions to mitigate threats (e.g. climate change, invasive species) for each property. These data will be used to develop stewardship and management actions. In addition, the intern will be responsible for setting up the Nature Reserves database. This will involve researching and selecting an appropriate land management database to manage files, contacts, history of stewardship activities, maps and images associated with each nature reserve. Having this database will enable quick and efficient access to information on each property.

The ideal candidate has excellent GIS digital mapping and analysis skills and is well versed in database organization and management. They work well independently and as part of a team, being able to problem solve and take initiative to produce high quality products in a timely manner.

Principal Responsibilities

• Assist with property management plans through the creation of cartographic products using spatial data.
• Support the maintenance and organization of geospatial and digital files, ensuring easy access for file users.
• Assist with the creation of a land management database including selection of software, transfer of files and supporting Nature Reserve staff usage.
• Assist with communications for the Nature Reserves Program including contributing to social media, biogs and webpage updates.
• Regularly report to supervisor and team members to seek guidance as needed and ensure work is on track.
• Document and record metadata for existing and newly developed datasets.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated interest in conservation in Ontario;
• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in geography, conservation biology or related field;
• 1-2 years working experience with GIS, specifically with ESRI products (ArcGIS Pro 2.7.1) and database management;
• Previous experience with obtaining and interpreting GPS data, KML data, and remotely sensed imagery;
• Experience with displaying natural features, threats, species at risk and invasive species in cartographic products following communications guidelines or a template;
• Good verbal and written communications skills, including active listening.
• Ability to work independently, as a team member, and self-motivate and prioritize work;
• Meticulous attention to detail with strong organizational skills;
• Familiar with land management documentation and file structure;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

As a position funded by Colleges and Institutes Canada, applicants must also meet the following criteria:

• Post-secondary graduate
• No more than 30 years of age at the start of the internship
• Canadian citizens, permanent residents or persons granted refugee status in Canada
• Legally allowed to work according to the relevant provincial and Canadian legislation regulations
• Available to work for at least six months
• Cannot be a previous participant of a Science Horizon Internship

Desirable Assets

• Valid class “G” driver’s license and ability to rent a vehicle in Ontario.
• Experience with GIS based conservation planning, landscape ecology, spatial statistics or community planning projects.
• Previous experience setting up a land management database.

Anticipated start date: November 8, 2021

Duration of position: This is a full-time 26-week contract position ending in May 2022

Payment: $16 to $18/hr

Location: The position will be based at Ontario Nature’s Toronto Office – 214 King St W, Toronto, ON. Flexibility to work remotely while COVID-19 restrictions are in place.

To Apply

• Include your resume, cover letter and three references in one document, addressing your qualifications and experience
  • Include “Nature Reserves GIS Intern” in the subject line
  • Submit your application by email to the attention of Smera Sukumar, Nature Reserves Manager: smeras@ontarionature.org
  • Deadline for applications: October 20, 2021

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.