Conservation Science, Community Science

Position: Conservation Science Coordinator
Organization: Ontario Nature
Location: Toronto ON (or remotely within 2-hour commuting distance, see below)
Type: 1 year contract

Position Overview

Ontario Nature is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated individual for a 1-year contract in the role of Conservation Science Coordinator.

The coordinator is responsible for planning and delivering community science and conservation projects, contributing to the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (Atlas-3), and coordinating outreach and volunteer engagement. The role also provides assistance to the Nature Reserves Program and works closely with conservation staff under the guidance of the Acting Conservation Science and Stewardship Director.

This is a newly created contract position established to support program needs during a period of internal staffing shifts associated with a maternity leave. Ontario Nature may hire for this position at either the Level 2 or Level 3 band based on the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate, with responsibilities adjusted accordingly.

The ideal candidate has demonstrated experience coordinating complex projects and leading and motivating field teams. They have a strong ability to work collaboratively with researchers, Indigenous communities, conservation organizations, governments and other partners to advance conservation goals and shared interests.

About Ontario Nature

Ontario Nature is a charitable conservation organization that protects wild species and wild spaces across Ontario through conservation, education and public engagement. We represent 9,500 members, 130,000 supporters and 150 member groups throughout the province. We are there wherever and whenever nature needs us most. To learn more, visit: ontarionature.org.

Why Work with Ontario Nature

• Flexible work hours and location, in accordance with our Remote Work Policy
• Strong organizational values with commitment to upholding them at all levels of the organization
• Progressive workspace and membership perks at the Centre for Social Innovation in Toronto
• Vacation leave starting at 15 days, plus 4 paid days off that are coupled with statutory holidays during our office closure in late December
• 3 paid personal leave days, 12 paid sick days per year
• Fulfilling, purpose-driven work, alongside 35 passionate and committed colleagues
• An ongoing commitment to create an inclusive and equitable environment for employees, volunteers, members and supporters
• Opportunities for advancement, skill development and cross-sectoral collaboration
• Support for taking initiative and pursuing aligned personal interest projects
• Team building and social opportunities

Principle Responsibilities

DATA, PROJECT AND EVENT MANAGEMENT 

• Coordinate data collection, analysis and management for the Conservation Science Program, ensuring data is well-organized and meets high data quality and strict confidentiality standards. 
• Share results and data with conservation partners, researchers, and the broader scientific community. 
• Support data management for the Nature Reserves Program, as directed. 
• Plan and deliver conservation and community science projects, including field work and outreach events.  
• Contribute to field work on nature reserves, including monitoring, annual inspections, ecological land classification and coordination of research projects.  

COMMUNICATIONS AND OUTREACH 

• Respond to inquiries related to the Conservation Science Program, Atlas-3 and other community science initiatives. 
• Support webpage updates and contribute to the development of print and online outreach materials to build public understanding and engagement. 
• Promote program events and successes through social media, webpages, e-newsletters, ON Nature Magazine, blog posts, press releases, media interviews, etc. 

 PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION 

• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with researchers, organizations, volunteers, and Indigenous communities and organizations to advance shared conservation goals. 
• Coordinate engagement with interested parties, rights holders and partners for Atlas-3 and other projects, as required. Represent Ontario Nature on Atlas-3 committees, supporting the development of the Atlas-3 publication. 
• Collaborate with Nature Reserve stewards to support conservation and community science projects as required. 

 FUNDRAISING, BUDGETING AND EVALUATION 

• Collaborate with Development staff and the Acting Conservation Science and Stewardship Director to develop funding proposals, cases for support, and funding reports. 
• Coordinate budget planning, tracking and financial monitoring for Conservation Science Program events and projects.  
• Contribute to monthly staff reports and quarterly reports for the Board of Directors. 
• Assist in evaluating program projects, events and activities with staff, partners and participants.  

 INTERN AND VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND SUPERVISION 

• Assist with the hiring and supervision of Conservation Science staff and contractors, as required. 
• Ensure program volunteers and interns are effectively trained and supervised to help deliver program objectives. 
• Support safety and confidentiality training for community science volunteers, where necessary. 

OTHER 

• Adhere to Ontario Nature’s confidentiality standards for sensitive data. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences, ecology, or a relevant field. 
• Minimum five years relevant work experience or experience gained through an advanced degree. 
• Sound knowledge of Ontario’s breeding bird species and ecology.  
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Access and PowerPoint); working knowledge of ArcGIS and database software. 
• Relevant experience planning and conducting field research. 
• Experience working collaboratively with Indigenous communities on conservation initiatives.  
• Experience conducting statistical analyses and managing databases using R or other statistical software. 
• Sound navigational skills including use of field GPS units, compass, and air photo interpretation.  
• Proficiency with using data collection devices such as tablets and smart phone applications.  
• Demonstrated ability to convene diverse partners and navigate differing opinions, resulting in consensus-based decision making. 
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills including active listening. 
• Demonstrated ability to work well independently within a small team structure and collaboratively with partners.   
• Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment and self-reliance. 
• Knowledge of Ontario’s flora and fauna, with sound field identification skills. 
• Current first aid and CPR certification.  
• Valid class “G” driver’s license and ability to rent a vehicle in Ontario. 

 Desirable Assets 

• Experience bird monitoring, including participation in Atlas-3 or other breeding bird atlas projects. 
• Experience with Ecological Land Classification and/or Vegetation Sampling Protocol. 
• Experience capturing and handling reptiles and amphibians, including PIT-tagging wild-caught reptiles. 
• Experience handling sensitive species data and knowledge. Experience using ArcGIS StoryMaps. 
• Experience leading outreach events such as guided hikes or presentations. 

 Anticipated Start Date: February 2026

Type of Position: 1-year contract

Compensation: Level 2 ($49,849-$61,177) or Level 3 ($58,912-$74,773); compensation to be commensurate with experience

Existing Vacancy: No

Location: This position is based at Ontario Nature’s Head Office – 192 Spadina Ave, Suite 110, Toronto, ON. This position can work remotely in accordance with our Remote Work Policy, within a two-hour commuting distance from Toronto. The selected candidate must be willing to travel across Ontario for field work and events, and work from the head office occasionally for team meetings and as requested.

Working Conditions: This job requires frequent travel across Ontario and frequent weekend and evening work. During these trips staff often camp or stay in rustic accommodations. The position requires the ability to work outdoors for extended periods in various weather conditions (e.g. high summer temperatures and humidity, heavy rain) and terrains. The job can be physically demanding, including hiking, tree-planting, hole-digging, camping in uncomfortable conditions and lifting heavy objects (up to 40 lbs). The position also requires extensive sitting, typing and time spent viewing computer screens.

Direct Reports: None.

To Apply

• Include your resume, cover letter and three references in one PDF document, addressing your qualifications and experience

• Include “Conservation Science Coordinator” in the email subject line

• Email your application to jobs@ontarionature.org

• Deadline for applications: 11:59 pm January 4, 2026

Ontario Nature is committed to workplace equity and welcomes applications from individuals who reflect the diversity of communities we serve. We encourage applications from people who are Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, women, persons with disabilities and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities.

Ontario Nature thanks all applicants in advance. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No unsolicited emails or phone calls please. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment, selection processes and work environments in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Requests for disability-related accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process.

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