Climate Change Adaptation, Nature-based Solutions

Position: Engagement and Operations Manager
Organization: TransCoastal Adaptations/Saint Mary's University
Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia

TransCoastal Adaptations: Centre for Nature-Based Solutions (TCA) at Saint Mary’s University (SMU) is seeking a full-time Engagement and Operations Manager, who will work closely with the TCA Executive Director, Finance, Research and Project Managers to oversee the day-to-day operation of TCA, support staff in reaching their full potential, provide human resources support as well as administration of funded projects, communication and engagement with external partners. Time will be divided between internal and external engagement and a variety of projects depending on requirements, timelines and urgency for action. The Engagement and Operations Manager will be an employee of SMU and a member of the core executive team where collaborative decision-making, integrity and shared passion for enhancing sustainability of coastal ecosystems and communities are paramount. We offer a dynamic, flexible work environment with opportunities to get your hands dirty on applied projects in the field.

Position Title: Engagement and Operations Manager

Start date: As soon as possible
Salary: $69,000 - $71,000 plus benefits

Status: Full-time (35 hrs a week)

Duration: 3-year position with possibility of renewal

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia

TCA is a Centre of Expertise for nature-based adaptation approaches to climate change, at SMU in Halifax, Nova Scotia. TCA aims to create and foster expertise, disseminate knowledge, and build capacity around nature-based coastal solutions in our region to establish these as effective and accessible climate adaptation strategies. We generate expertise through cutting-edge field and laboratory research in coastal environments and share research findings through outreach and engagement with the public, partner organizations, academia, and government entities. We build capacity around nature-based solutions through training highly qualified personnel (HQP) by employing students at various levels of study, including postgraduate interns, and we apply our knowledge by implementing nature-based infrastructure projects throughout Atlantic Canada and beyond. Nature-based solutions are needed now and for the future, and TCA is the foremost organization in Canada working to establish and advance these approaches.

The Engagement and Operations Manager will be based at SMU, report to the Executive Director, work closely with the Manager of Accounting and Financial Wellness, and share responsibility for managing Centre activities and staff. They will join a dynamic, passionate and energetic team at TCA who are committed to applying innovative, nature-based climate change adaptation solutions on the ground.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assisting the Executive Director with the operation of TCA, striving to support the long-term sustainability of the research centre including staff retention and implementation of our 2025-2030 strategic plan.
• Coordinating the day-to-day operation of TCA including coordinating meetings, creating meeting agendas, booking rooms, maintaining records and files, ordering catering, taking and distributing meeting minutes (including Centre TCA Board of Director meetings), among other duties.
• Supporting staff in reaching their full potential by fostering a positive work environment including work life balance, supporting staff to balance overtime hours and project deliverables for time in lieu, coordinating vacations among TCA team, coordinating team building activities, encourage/promote professional development and volunteer opportunities, and serve as an advocate and liaison with SMU Human Resources regarding benefits and wellness supports.
• Managing administrative tasks of externally funding projects including contribution agreements, tracking of deliverables and reporting of minor projects, file management and supporting major project administration with project managers. Mentor and empower junior staff in project management processes. Lead coordination of annual report to SMU Senate.
• Supervising and supporting the TCA Communications and Engagement Officer in developing and implementing strategic communication and engagement plans.
• Managing external engagement with project partners, collaborators and external agencies including coordinating and tracking TCA involvement in advisory boards, committees and policy reviews.
• Reporting; providing support to the Principal Investigators (PIs), Research and Project Managers, including gathering and compiling information to assist with the development of reports and tracking project milestones.
• Coordinating logistics for team meetings, workshops, and community/stakeholder meetings as necessary including notification, venue, facilitation and follow-up; Coordinate logistics for field and conference travel (with the TCA Research Operations Manager).
• Managing staff and intern recruitment, including drafting job postings, interviewing, contacting references and hiring staff and students/interns as required; leading and coordinating onboarding for new staff and interns.
• Supporting grant and other funding proposals, including project funding opportunities, and internal and external wage subsidy programs; proofreading/editing material for accuracy.
• Performs other duties related to the administration of multiple multi-year projects as required by the PIs, Research and Project Managers.

PROFILE

We are looking to hire an organized, dedicated and flexible professional who will thrive in a dynamic, academic environment. The Engagement and Operations Manager will strive to support the success of TCA, projects and the research team, while following procedures and policies outlined by SMU.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Minimum 3 years experience in large project delivery, including reporting and financial management;
• Valid PMP certification or proof of other project management training;
• Completion of post-graduate education in Management, Leadership, Business, Geography, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies or related field
• Awareness of the impacts of climate change in coastal communities and adaptation options
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 Suite of programs and project management software
• Proficiency in file organization and data management
• Strong conflict resolution, problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Demonstrated ability to communicate with diverse stakeholders and rightsholders including NGOs, rural landowners, planners, scientists, First Nations communities and decision makers;
• Must have strong written and oral communication skills;
• Must have strong organizational and time management skills;
• Must be highly motivated, independent and hard-working;
• Must be a Canadian citizen or legally entitled to work in Canada;
• Bilingualism (French and English) will be considered an asset;

STARTING BENEFITS and PERKS

• Extended Health/Dental program and Employee and Family Assistance Program
• Paid vacation time and personal days in addition to periods where University is closed (e.g. Christmas to New Years)
• Additional benefits after 12 and 24 months of consecutive service including tuition discount & enrollment in pension plan
• Annual professional development allowance
• Paid volunteer hours
• Discounted Halifax transit Xpass

APPLICATION

To apply: If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter describing your background and fit to the position, along with a resumé or CV and list of references, merged into one document, via email to Nancy Anningson (Project Manager) at Nancy.Anningson@smu.ca

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Application deadline: Open until filled. We will begin reviewing applications July 25, 2025. We thank all applicants, however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

At SMU, equity and diversity are integral to excellence and enrich our community. As an institution committed to fostering an environment of inclusion and respect, we welcome applications from women, Indigenous peoples, racialized persons/visible minorities, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientation or gender identity and others who might contribute to the growth and enrichment of our community. Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact Dr. Danika van Proosdij at dvanproo@smu.ca .