Planning, Research and Development Intern

Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services provides forest fire management services for the province including fire management policies and strategies, fire prevention and detection, and the basic resources for managing forest fires; aviation flight and maintenance crews and equipment in support of forest fire and natural resources management, and other specialized aviation services, including non-scheduled air transport to all government ministries and agencies; and emergency management in response to forest fires, floods, drought/low water, dam failures, erosion, soil and bedrock instability, crude oil and natural gas exploration, natural gas and hydrocarbon underground storage, and salt solution mining emergencies. Effective January 1st, 2024 the salary range for this position is $1,001.92 to $1,207.03 per (hour/week) in compliance with OPSEU Unified Bargaining Unit collective agreement provisions. The new rates, effective retroactive to January 1, 2024, were recently confirmed and dates for implementation of the new salary rates are still to be determined.

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace. We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions. Visit the  OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the  OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service. We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's  Human Rights Code . Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?

As part of the Planning, Research and Development Unit you will provide professional, and technical assistance to support the development of strategies, policies and practices for wildland fire management in Ontario. This may include: • Assisting in and coordinating research and knowledge exchange of science that addresses key ministry priorities.
• Supporting collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders and partners.
• Participating on various committees and working/project groups.
• Traveling to locations not accessible by public transit.

How do I qualify?

Eligibility:

• Proof of eligibility to work in Canada;
• Has graduated or will graduate from an approved or legally authorized college or university with a diploma or an equivalent degree or postgraduate certificate within the last four years;
• Candidates are only eligible to participate in one MNRF 12-month placement and must not have participated in the MNRF internship program in the past.
• Not a permanent employee in the Ontario Public Service.

Knowledge, skills and experience:

Technical knowledge:
• Understanding of wildland fire and natural resources legislation and policies.
• Knowledge of global, national and provincial climate change issues.
• Knowledge of human dimensions of wildland fire management.
• Understanding of wildland fire management practices. Analytical and research skills:
• Knowledge of policy research and analysis techniques, environmental scanning and modelling and trends forecasting to gather, summarize and interpret information.
• Ability to research, analyze, assess and report on complex and diverse issues with attention to detail. Interpersonal & teamwork skills:
• Well-developed interpersonal skills to build relationships and communicate with internal and external partners.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team, or independently with limited supervision. Communication skills:
• Strong interpersonal and communication (oral and written) skills to prepare scientific and technical reports, presentations, briefing and communications materials. Planning and organizational skills:
• Strong planning, organizational, and time management skills to manage multiple tasks and projects with competing deadlines. Computer skills:
• Proficient in common software applications such as word processing, presentation and spreadsheet applications.
• Ability to conduct analysis and perform research using tools such as R or GIS.