Preferred location: Halifax, NS

Period: April 3 to August 31, 2023, temporary full-time

Reports to: Director of Science and Marine Scientist

Summary

Oceana Canada is an independent charity committed to rebuilding Canada’s oceans by winning science-based policy victories that increase biodiversity and abundance. Oceana Canada is part of the largest international advocacy group dedicated solely to ocean conservation.

Oceana Canada seeks a Habitat Protection Research Assistant to play a key role in support of its campaigns. This temporary position will provide science and campaigning support linked to the goals of the Habitat Protection Campaign to advance protected areas designation in Canada. The Habitat Protection Research Assistant will assist with the analysis and report writing for the conservation case and socio-economic consequences of protecting offshore submarine canyon and seamount habitats in Atlantic Canada, and provide technical and research design support to the planning of a 2024 oceanographic expedition.

Principal duties and Responsibilities   

1. Synthesize information, through literature searches, government and industry reports, and spatial data sources on the ecology, marine space use and conservation value of offshore habitats in Atlantic Canada.
2. Write and edit reports, including producing maps and figures, with meticulous attention to detail.
3. Provide technical support to the planning of a 2024 oceanographic expedition to survey benthic communities in submarine canyon and seamount habitats in Atlantic Canada.
4. Provide additional research support related to marine conservation and fisheries to inform and support the goals and strategies of Oceana Canada's campaigns, as needed and assigned.

Requirements

• University degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline with practical and relevant experience.
• Strong knowledge of marine ecology, ocean management and marine conservation issues in Canada.
• Proficiency with basic analysis and map production using GIS software is required.
• Excellent writing, editing, communication and research skills is required.
• The successful candidate must be available for full-time work in Canada.

Oceana Canada is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with Nova Scotia Accessibility Act, support will be provided in the recruitment process and accommodations for disabilities will be provided on request wherever appropriate.  All offers of employment are conditional upon the successful completion of reference checks and a criminal background check.

While we thank all candidates for their interest, only those short-listed will be contacted.