Job opportunity: Coastal Carnivore and Carbon Project Intern

Salary and details  

Job Type: Contract
Anticipated hours: 35 hours per week for 13 weeks. 
Salary range: $23.55/hour.
Location: Remote but located in the Lower Mainland, Gulf Islands, or Vancouver Island, BC.
Anticipated start date: April 1 2023 (negotiable).

Application deadline

March 10^th 2023 at 11:59 PM (PST).

Eligibility 

• In accordance with funding requirements, the successful applicant must be an enrolled student at University of Victoria, University of British Columbia, University of North British Columbia, or Simon Fraser University (international students are eligible participants);
• 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.

Overview

In collaboration with project partners, the objective of the Coastal Carnivore and Carbon (CCC) project is to explore the role salmon abundance and large carnivore foraging activities play in carbon sequestration in coastal ecosystems in British Columbia. Soil sampling will be undertaken in two areas: 1) a tributary of the Fraser River where wolves, bears, and cougars are present, and 2) two pilot sites on North Pender Island where apex predators have been extirpated. Soil samples will be analyzed to better understand the indirect role predators play in carbon sequestration. This project will improve understanding of how interruptions in the trophic cascade can impact carbon sequestration potential and efficacy of climate change adaptation strategies. 

The successful candidate will undertake desk-based research, conducting a review of available literature focused on topics such as carbon sequestration, trophic cascades, and climate change adaptation. They will also assist in the design of a methodological approach for each study site based on best practice as demonstrated in available literature. There may also be an opportunity to visit the sampling sites to assist with field research and data collection. 

Please note that this will be a remote position. The successful candidate must have access to their own computer, a reliable internet connection, and an adequate place to work throughout the day.

Desired skills and qualifications

• Environmental or biological sciences, Indigenous studies or related post-secondary education preferred;
• Experience conducting literature reviews and synthesizing findings into reports;
• Strong understanding of research methodologies and sampling design;
• Proficiency undertaking basic statistical analysis;
• Working understanding of carbon sequestration and nature-based solutions
• Ability to work independently and problem-solve;
• Organized and resourceful with a demonstrated ability to time-manage and appropriately prioritize tasks;
• Experience or willingness to work with people from diverse backgrounds;
• Someone with extensive knowledge of Indigenous communities in the Fraser River and Salish Sea region an asset;
• Knowledge of BC wildlife, habitats, and conservation issues is considered an asset.

About Raincoast 

Raincoast is a team of conservationists and scientists empowered by our research to protect the lands, waters and wildlife of coastal British Columbia. We use rigorous, peer-reviewed science and community engagement to further our conservation objectives. We call this approach informed advocacy.

Since 1990, Raincoast has been making progress toward our habitat and wildlife protection goals. Our on-the-ground presence has given us a deep-rooted understanding of BC’s vast coastline. We work in partnership with scientists, First Nations, local communities and NGOs to build support for decisions that protect marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitat on BC’s coast.

How to apply

Please send your resume and cover letter to jobs@raincoast.org.

Email applications with ”Coastal Carnivores and Carbon Project Intern” in the subject line. Attach a single PDF file for your cover letter and resume – name it your first and last name (e.g. Cecile Santana.pdf)

We thank all applicants but only those receiving an interview will be contacted. Funding support for this position is provided by the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) at the University of Victoria. 

Raincoast welcomes applications from all interested and qualified candidates. Our organization is the product of diverse visions and perspectives and we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring. Raincoast is committed to fostering and maintaining a workplace culture that is inclusive and does not tolerate or accept discrimination or harassment.