CPAWS National is based on the unceded and unsurrendered lands of the Anishinabe Algonquin Nation and works in both unceded and treaty lands of First Nations, Métis and Inuit throughout the country known as Canada. CPAWS is committed to operating in a way that upholds justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI). Our goal is to create an inclusive place for people from diverse backgrounds.

About the Role

CPAWS National is hiring a Conservation Program Assistant for our conservation team to assist in addressing the conservation challenges and policy questions faced by the organization with respect to its work on protected and conserved areas. We are seeking someone with a proven interest and understanding of nature protection, including Indigenous-led conservation. You should also have strong writing skills and some experience supporting the delivery of projects.

With the support of the conservation team, you will have the opportunity to design a project that you will complete during your time with CPAWS. You will also support the Program Manager, or other staff at CPAWS National Office, to deliver larger and ongoing pieces of work. Because we are a small team, you will take on a range of activities in support of land, freshwater and ocean conservation across Canada. On any given day, that means you could be writing content for a report or working with a small group to develop a campaign strategy.

Responsibilities:

1.     Project Development and Execution (40%)

A.     With the support of the Program Manager and Conservation Director, identify a relevant project of interest, establish milestones and deliverables, and present this completed work in its appropriate format at the end of the four-month term.

B.     This could include undertaking research related to protected area establishment, management and acceptance in Canada. E.g. policy review, jurisdictional scan and/or case studies of best practices in freshwater and/or wetland conservation efforts; effective invasive species management; integration of species at risk and protected area development; health and wellbeing benefits of protected areas; effective promotion of conservation practices within industry; etc.

C.     This may also include other agreed-up approaches to topics associated with conservation and protection of nature in Canada.

2.     Program Support (40%)

A.     Assisting the Program Manager and other Terrestrial Conservation team members with the delivery of projects and campaigns and other discreet pieces of work.

B.     Supporting CPAWS Chapters across Canada, as they work to protect 30% of Canada by 2030, including communications and attending or organizing meetings.

C.     Providing memos, write ups and information in relation to protected areas addressing specific questions arising during CPAWS’ work, including supporting the development of resources showing the value of conservation to Canada’s economy and people’s health;

D.     Participating with Communications staff in the development of materials, including media releases, blogs, print documents, direct mail, E-newsletters, etc., relating to projects led by the conservation team. 

E.     Collaborating with Ocean Program staff on common projects and work with other national conservation staff to assist with projects as needed.

3.     Other Administration & Duties (20%)

A.     Assisting with meetings of the national conservation team, chapters, and coalitions as required. This may include scheduling, agenda development, note-taking, and facilitation.

B.     Participating in CPAWS staff, coalition, and project meetings as required.

C.     Supporting organizational efforts to advance Indigenous-led conservation, decolonization/ reconciliation, and justice, diversity, equity and inclusivity. 

D.     Keeping personal and project work plans up to date to ensure timely collaboration. 

Essential Assets 

•       Eligibility to work in Canada (citizenship, permanent residence, or a valid work permit). 

•       Be between the ages of 15 to 30 years, as required by Canada Summer Jobs

•       Demonstrable knowledge and interest for nature, conservation and the environment in a Canadian context. 

•       Experience supporting or participating in projects.

•       Excellent organizational skills and an eye for detail, with sharp written and verbal communications skills.

•       An inclusive, collegial, and collaborative work ethic with strong teamwork skills. 

•       An appreciation of Indigenous leadership on issues like conservation, and a commitment to working in a way that uplifts the central role of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit.

•       A commitment to decolonization and anti-racism.  

You may have

•       Experience working or volunteering in non-profit / charitable sector. 

•       Relevant educational experience (a lack of formal education should not be a barrier to application, as we will always consider relevant work experience). 

•       Experience working in or leading campaigns and projects in a non-profit or other setting.

•       An understanding of concepts like Ethical Space and experience working with Indigenous Peoples and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. 

•       Experience presenting complex information in understandable ways for the public and decision makers.

•       Fluency in English and French.