Location: Desbarats, Ontario
Anticipated Start Date: May 4, 2026
Tentative Contract Length: 16 weeks
Positions Available: 2
Compensation: $18.50/hour (35 hours/week)

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Monitor protected areas for disturbance and ecological health

  • Complete regular patrols using set routes.

  • Identify, document, and map issues like dumping, unauthorized vehicle use, tree cutting, erosion, invasive species, or wildlife harassment.

  • Record habitat condition, regeneration, and wildlife signs with photos and GPS.

  • Report urgent concerns quickly and log all observations for follow-up.

• Collect flora and fauna presence data

  • Conduct surveys using approved methods (transects, point counts, quadrats, camera traps, track/sign, incidental sightings).

  • Identify species to protocol standards and note confidence level.

  • Record location, date, time, weather, habitat, behaviour, and phenology.

  • Flag rare, at-risk, or invasive species immediately.

• Conduct water quality monitoring

  • Sample designated waterbodies on schedule.

  • Measure field parameters (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, turbidity, clarity).

  • Note anomalies such as blooms, sediment, odours, or erosion.

  • Calibrate, clean, and maintain equipment.

• Compile, quality-check, and submit data

  • Enter field data promptly into digital systems.

  • Verify completeness and accuracy; correct obvious errors and flag uncertainties.

  • Organize photos, GPS tracks, and files with clear naming and storage conventions.

  • Submit records to internal systems and relevant external databases (partner portals, citizen-science platforms).

  • Assist with short summaries, maps, and visuals as needed.

• Basic trail maintenance and stewardship

  • Clear small hazards, brush, and blowdowns; improve drainage where trained.

  • Install or repair signage and minor infrastructure (markers, steps, boardwalk sections).

  • Monitor visitor impacts and trail wear, documenting areas needing larger work.

  • Follow safety procedures, PPE use, and tool protocols.

  • Log work completed.

• Assist with acoustic bat research

  • Deploy, check, and retrieve detectors correctly, following site protocols.

  • Record site metadata (habitat, coordinates, settings, weather).

  • Manage batteries and memory cards to avoid data loss.

  • Upload and organize recordings; support basic processing.

• Support guided tours and outreach events

  • Help plan and set up walks, stewardship days, and public events.

  • Support group safety, manage gear, and model low-impact site use.

  • Share approved ecological and cultural information suited to the audience.

  • Collect attendance and feedback for evaluation.

• Support community education, especially youth

  • Assist with school programs, youth field days, workshops, and community science.

  • Set up activities and learning stations with strong safety and inclusion practices.

  • Adapt communication to age and learning needs, encouraging curiosity and respect for nature.

  • Help clean up, store materials, and document participation and outcomes.

Qualifications and Skills Required

• completed, or currently completing, a diploma or degree in a field related to biology or natural resources

• identification of local flora and fauna species, including invasive species

• knowledge of local ecosystems and how they function

• experience working outdoors in all weather conditions

• exceptional outdoor navigation skills

• the ability to work both independently and as a team

• valid drivers license

• valid pleasure craft operators card

Candidate Eligibility

• must be a youth between the ages of 15 and 30 and a permanent resident of Canada

• available for some evening and weekend work

• must complete a vulnerable sector check

How to Apply

To apply, please send your cover letter and resume in one document via email to employment@calt.ca with the subject line Assistant Field Technician Application by March 30, 2026. Early applications are encouraged as interviews may begin on a rolling basis. We thank everyone who applies for this position. Only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted.

At the Central Algoma Land Trust, we believe conservation benefits from a variety of perspectives, skills, and lived experiences. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.