Nature Reserves, Biodiversity Conservation

Position: Nature Reserves GIS Technician
Organization: Ontario Nature
Location: Toronto ON / Hybrid / Remote (see below)

Position Overview

Ontario Nature is seeking a Nature Reserves GIS Technician to join our team starting in April 2026.

The technician will provide technical and administrative support to the Nature Reserves Program through the development and maintenance of geospatial data, cartographic products and land management records.

Working with the Nature Reserves Manager and GIS Coordinator, the technician contributes to property management planning, biodiversity tracking and stewardship documentation by supporting spatial analysis, data organization and database maintenance. The role supports program implementation through accurate data management and cartographic production.

The ideal candidate has experience using GIS tools such as ArcGIS, strong attention to detail and an interest in conservation. Familiarity with species at risk, invasive species and field-based ecological work in Ontario will be valuable. This role is well suited to someone who enjoys combining technical GIS work with practical conservation support while working both independently and as part of a small, collaborative team.

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 over 150 member groups and more than 30,000 individual members and supporters throughout the province. To learn more about Ontario Nature, visit: http://www.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
• 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

Principal Responsibilities

GIS and Data Support

• Assist in the development of cartographic products and spatial analyses to support property management plans, easement compliance reporting and stewardship initiatives.
• Support the maintenance, organization and quality control of geospatial and associated digital files, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
• Document and maintain metadata for new and existing spatial datasets in accordance with program standards.
• Assist with the setup, modification and maintenance of field-based spatial data collection systems and applications.

Land Management Database Support

• Support the maintenance and accuracy of the land management database (Landscape), including data entry, file organization and record updates.
• Contribute to the development and updating of database guidance materials and support staff and volunteer stewards in effective system use.
• Liaise with database support staff, as directed, to resolve technical issues.

Program Communications and Reporting Support

• Contribute to communications materials related to the Nature Reserves Program, including webpage updates, blogs and social media content.
• Provide regular updates to the Nature Reserves Manager and team members to ensure alignment with program priorities and timelines.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in geography, conservation biology or related field.  
• 1-2 years of experience using GIS software, particularly ESRI products (ArcGIS Pro 3.3.0) and supporting database management.
• Experience working with GPS data, KML files and remotely sensed imagery.
• Experience preparing cartographic products that accurately represent natural features, threats, species at risk and invasive species using established templates or communications guidelines. 
• Good verbal and written communications skills, including active listening.   
• Ability to work independently within defined guidance, while contributing effectively as part of a team.  
• Meticulous attention to detail with strong organizational skills. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.  
• Commitment to the conservation and protection of Ontario’s wild species and spaces.

Desirable Assets

• Valid class “G” driver’s license and ability to rent a vehicle in Ontario.  
• Experience with GIS based conservation planning, landscape ecology, spatial statistics or community planning projects. 
• Experience setting up and using a land management database. 
• Familiarity with land management documentation and file structure.
• Experience conducting biological inventory fieldwork.

Anticipated Start Date: April 2026
Type of Position: Full-time contract until February 28, 2027
Compensation: $40,000 - $50,000 per year
Existing Vacancy: Yes

Location: This position is based out of Ontario Nature’s Head Office – 192 Spadina Ave, Suite 110, Toronto, ON. This position can work remotely within Ontario in accordance with our Remote Work Policy, however the selected candidate must be willing to work from the head office occasionally for team meetings and as requested.

Working Conditions: This position requires limited evening and weekend work. Any overtime worked will be compensated for through lieu time. The position requires extensive sitting, clicking, typing and time spent viewing computer screens.

To Apply 

Include your resume and cover letter addressing your qualifications and experience. Submit your application at https://ontarionature.applytojobs.ca

Please mention you saw this at GoodWork.ca.

Deadline for applications: March 23, 2026, 9:00 A.M.

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.