Internship Position (Volunteer)

Role: Environmental Health & Consumer Safety Specialist
Type: unpaid / volunteer
Organization: Harms and Humans Inc.
Location: Ottawa / Hybrid / Remote

Commitment: 4–6 hours per week | Flexible schedule
Duration: 3 months (extension possible)

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About Harms and Humans

Harms and Humans Inc. is Canada’s first social enterprise focused on protecting consumers and households from exposure to heavy metals. Using handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technology, we test consumer products, home interiors, soil, and small business facilities for lead, mercury, cadmium, antimony, and other hazardous elements. The organization conducts inspections, education, and public outreach to improve chemical safety and promote transparency. We also advocate for clean brands and support informed consumer choices.

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About the Role

As an Environmental Health & Consumer Safety Specialist, you will conduct independent research and create public awareness materials that educate families and promote safer choices. You will contribute to technical research and communication activities, working closely with the CEO, marketing, and technical specialists, and may engage in client- and partner-facing outreach.

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Key Responsibilities

• Research toxicology and chemical safety topics relevant to consumer products, housing, family and environmental protection
• Review and summarize scientific literature and public data (e.g., Health Canada, EPA, EU REACH)
• Write educational posts and short articles for our website and social media
• Support campaigns on safe household products, clean playgrounds, and child safety
• Optionally participate in community events and outreach programs
• Offer technical and strategic advice regarding services, outreach, and development.

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What You Bring

• Background in toxicology, chemistry, environmental science, biochemistry, public health, or science
• Strong writing and research skills; ability to simplify scientific concepts for the public
• Curious, reliable, and motivated to learn about chemical safety and sustainability
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a small mission-driven team

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Skills and Advantages You Will Gain

• Understanding of modern heavy-metal regulations in Canada and internationally
• Practical knowledge of consumer product testing and safety assessment
• Familiarity with XRF technology and principles of radiation safety
• Proficiency in science communication and technical writing
• Insight into public education and health promotion strategies
• Exposure to operations of a social enterprise promoting sustainability
• Basic principles of marketing campaigns and outreach
• Measurable impact on Canadian families and community safety

• BONUS: free home inspection/mail-in testing to identify heavy metals in your kitchen environment

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How to Apply

Please email your CV and cover letter to:
contact@harmsandhumans.com

Disclaimer: This is a voluntary unpaid position intended to provide learning experience and community service exposure. This role is best suited for graduates and students pursuing careers in environmental health, public policy, research, or corporate sustainability and for the community ambassadors looking to improve wellbeing of Canadian families.

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