NCC is the nation’s leading not-for-profit, private land conservation organization. Since 1962, NCC and its supporters have protected 14 million hectares (more than 35 million acres) of ecologically significant land across Canada. NCC takes a collaborative, science-based approach to achieve conservation success for the sake of nature and Canadians. With a national office in Toronto and local offices across the country, NCC delivers results you can walk on.

Purpose and General Description:

The Conservation Technician/Intern will work closely with NCC Coordinators of Conservation Biology to support conservation programs in our Natural Areas. The Conservation Technician/Intern will assist with on the ground conservation management 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. species at risk, vegetation communities) and threats (e.g. invasive species);
• Invasive species removal, trail maintenance and visitor outreach, developing communication materials and installing property signs;
• Data collection, data entry, analysis, research and reporting as required to develop and implement property management plans and effectiveness monitoring reports;
• Assist with compliance monitoring of conservation easements;
• Note: Conservation Technicians working in Happy Valley Forest (King City location) will primarily focus on education and outreach to trail users, trail monitoring and trail maintenance, with opportunities to assist with other stewardship work.

Required Skills and Attributes:

This posting is targeted to individuals possessing the following skills:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• 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;
• Physical work will be required (e.g. planting trees, carrying backpack sprayer, etc.)
• Valid class “G” driver’s license and comfort driving on highways and rough roads.

The following additional skills and abilities would be assets in these positions:

• Basic knowledge of plants, wildlife and vegetation communities as well as experience using identification keys;
• Navigational skills including understanding of GPS devices or applications, compass, and air photo interpretation;
• Experience engaging with members of the public or volunteers
• Standard First Aid – Level C CPR certification

Terms of Employment:

• These are full-time positions (16 -23 weeks) within the period of April 2021 – November 2021.
• Positions are based out of Elgin (Frontenac Arch), Napanee, Roseneath, Orillia or Kawartha Lakes, Barrie, King City, Lion’s Head, Goderich, Pelee Island, and Walsingham. Some positions will involve travel to and from field sites including overnights (up to two weeks) away from the office location. Many positions will require some weekend and evening work.
• Positions will include some “office work” that will be completed in a work from home setting. The use of NCC offices in Elgin, Roseneath, Lion’s Head and Walsingham will be dependent on COVID-19 safety guidance and best practices.
• Funding restrictions for some of these positions require that applicants meet the following criteria;
  • Must have been registered as a full-time student in the previous academic year and intend to return to school on a full-time basis in the next academic year OR graduated from school in the semester directly before the work term (i.e. completed school in April 2021). This restriction does not apply to all positions;
  • Must be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of employment. This restriction does not apply to all positions;
  • Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of employment;
  • Must have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations