Ecological Monitoring and Data Analysis Intern Wanted

Job Title: Ecological Monitoring and Data Analysis Intern

Application Deadline: Nov 22nd

This project’s work takes place in a forested watershed with both Coastal Douglas fir and Western Hemlock biogeoclimatic systems. The lake within this protected watershed provides drinking water to nearly ½ the population on Salt Spring Island. Our work focuses on restoring resilience following a 120-year history of intensive forestry and wetland modification, made worse by atmospheric rivers, heat domes and other climate-related changes. Our objective is to reduce vulnerability to fire through ecological restoration of wetlands and forest ‘health’ (biodiversity). Part of our work focuses on developing and testing new approaches that can be used on other islands within the Salish Sea. Learn more about our work here.

Work Description:

We are looking for a passionate, self-motivated young professional on a path to a career in forest ecology and/or restoration to join our dynamic team. 

This position supports project operations through hands-on ecological monitoring, environmental data collection, data analysis, and geospatial mapping and analysis. In the field, the technician will work as part of a technical team collecting hydrological, vegetation, soil, and weather data from across the watershed. Some experience with biological monitoring, database management/analysis, and familiarity with ArcGIS/QGIS is required. This position offers opportunities to gain and apply skills through a mentorship position. The technician will be supported by highly qualified members of our team, including opportunities to expand and broaden skills and experience in data analysis, vegetation surveys, hydrological monitoring, and the use of forestry metrics. Interest and experience in the application of Cloudpoint/other LiDAR software, as well as RStudio, is required. 

The position includes contributing to restoration science, educational programming (with local schools), and working with volunteers. The field-based component of this work takes place in conditions of inclement weather (rain) and uneven, vegetated terrain. About 60% of the work will be analytical and computer-based, so hybrid work is possible in this position. We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace that welcomes people of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences – including those who are underrepresented, non-conforming, or those who identify as members of employment equity groups.

Qualifications/Pay/Logistics:

An understanding of ecological concepts, biological principles, and plant identification are required. Previous job experience in forest ecology is not necessary, but some experience in the field is preferred. Similarly, experience in the use of Cloudpoint and other Geospatial analytical tools, familiarity in the use of statistical software, R-, Java- or other programming languages  and interest in the use and preparation of LiDAR and other geospatial data is required. Training will be provided where needed. 

The field components of this work are scheduled by season; as such, this position may require relocation for those outside the Salt Spring Island/Saanich immediate area for periods of the contract. As housing on Salt Spring Island can be challenging to find, we are happy to help with your accommodation search.

Intern Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for the Internship Program, interns must:

• Be between 15 and 30 years old at the start of the internship;
• Be legally entitled to work in Canada;
• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee with legal status;
• Not be receiving Employment Insurance (EI) during the internship;
• Not be currently enrolled in school; and
• Be a graduate of a degree or diploma program from a university, college, technical institute, or CEGEP (in Québec).

Please include a cover letter and up-to-date resume, along with 2-3 professional references.

Timing and Duration: This four-month position has some flexibility in the start and end date, with work commencing by December 1st, 2025 and lasting four months. This is a contract position with an hourly rate of $25 and an average workweek of 30 hours over the four months. There is potential for an extension of this position, funding dependent. 

NOTE: A vehicle is required for this position, as the fieldwork includes travel to parts of the island where public transportation is unavailable.

For further questions, please feel free to contact Keegan Thomas, Project Coordinator and Experimental lead.