Overview

CPAWS is committed to improving diversity, equity, inclusion and decolonization within our organization and all aspects of our work. Preference will be given to applications from individuals who self-identify as members of underrepresented and underserved groups.

Ideal Candidate:

CPAWS is seeking an Ocean Conservation Advisor to support our ongoing engagement on various ocean conservation initiatives in Nunatsiavut and Labrador. This role will report to a project steering committee comprising representatives from CPAWS National Ocean Program and CPAWS Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter.

Primary responsibilities will include project coordination, government relations and community outreach, and undertaking ecological and socioeconomic analyses to inform various planning processes that are underway. A major aspect of this role will be working with the Nunatsiavut Government and Inuit and coastal communities in the region.

The ideal candidate is based in Labrador or has strong ties to the region and experience working closely with Indigenous communities and an understanding of Indigenous Knowledge.

Experience working with Indigenous communities — especially Inuit communities — is essential, along with a working knowledge of the local marine and coastal environment, including ecology, socioeconomic activities, and cultural values. Experience in government relations, communications, and community outreach, and research/analysis are considered assets.

Why Work for CPAWS?

CPAWS is a national charitable organization with 13 chapters across Canada, almost 100 staff, and hundreds of volunteers who have helped to protect over half a million square kilometres of Canada’s public land and water, since 1963. Canada has promised to protect 30% by 2030 and CPAWS is working hard to ensure that target is reached.

CPAWS advocates for the effective, long-term protection of ecologically- and culturally-significant land, freshwater and ocean areas in Canada. Working in a way that respects the sovereignty and leadership of Indigenous nations, we achieve our mission through knowledge-based advocacy, and public education and engagement, underpinned by collaboration and partnership. Our vision is that at least half of land, freshwater and ocean in Canada is permanently protected to sustain nature and people for current and future generations.

We value each employee’s creativity and innovation and offer a collegial work environment and competitive benefits.

Responsibilities:

  • Developing organizational strategy and campaign plan for marine protection and planning in Nunatsiavut and Labrador ;
  • Building strong relationships with Nunatsiavut Government and indigenous communities in Labrador ;
  • Liaising with Sustainable Nunatsiavut Futures research teams, attending regular calls and meetings as needed, identify and act on key opportunities and priorities for CPAWS engagement;
  • Undertaking ecological and socioeconomic analyses to support protected area planning initiatives and identify and map values and opportunities to build a strong conservation case for Indigenous-led and co-governed protected areas throughout the Labrador Coast and Labrador Sea;
  • Providing policy recommendations, advice, and support to Nunatsiavut Government and federal government in feasibility study and subsequent steps for Torngat NMCA, and future AOIs ;
  • Creating communications materials, and planning and hosting community outreach events and workshops to explore the benefits of marine protection.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • 2-4 years’ experience working with Indigenous communities and people and relevant educational experience in biology, conservation, resource management or public policy or equivalent related experience and education;
  • Knowledge of federal & provincial policy and legislation that impact Indigenous communities and People in areas of marine science, climate change and fisheries;
  • Excellent communication and written skills (ability to articulate and present);
  • A high level of analytical, research, organizational and problem-solving skills;
  • Ability to work independently on a wide range of issues simultaneously and or as a team member.

Apply

We strive to create a safe and equitable hiring process and encourage you to self-identify if you are Indigenous, Black, racialized, or face other barriers to employment. You can use your covering letter to tell your story and share any information about yourself that you think is important for your proposal. Preference will be given to applications from individuals who self-identify as members of underrepresented and underserved groups.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis from the date of posting.