Student Research Assistant, Centre for Boreal Research - Extension and Education (Casual)

Ready to start your next chapter with NAIT?

At NAIT, we’re passionate about building a team of talented, dedicated professionals who share our commitment to excellence and innovation. Your skills and experience can shape the future of education and make a real impact in our community.

If this opportunity feels like the right fit for you, we encourage you to apply and join us in creating a brighter future – together.

Important Application Deadline Notice

Please note that Workday closes job postings at 11:59pm MST on the day before the posting end date listed above.

To ensure your application is received, submit no later than 11:59pm MST the day prior to the posting end date.

Internal NAIT Employees

Current NAIT employees are welcome to apply for this opportunity. To be considered, please submit your application through the NAIT Jobs Hub rather than the external career site.

Please note: This position is a casual opportunity located in Peace River, Alberta requiring field, laboratory and greenhouse-based work. This position begins in July 2026 and the end date will be December 31, 2026.

The NAIT Centre for Boreal Research is recruiting science-minded students to work at the Plant and Seed Technology Access Centre (TAC) in the Peace River area. The Plant and Seed TAC develops strategies and techniques to harvest, enhance and deliver native plants and seeds for land reclamation and reforestation. Students will assist with seed collection, extraction and testing of native seeds in the Peace Region. In addition, the student research assistant will take part in tree planting. 

NOTE: This position will require relocation to Peace River, Alberta.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct seed collection in the field across northern Alberta.

• Conduct seed extraction, storage and germination testing in the lab.

• Tree planting with Indigenous communities.

• Assist researchers with greenhouse activities (plant propagation, watering, fertilizing).

• Assist with capacity building and training activities.

• Data entry.

• Other duties as required.

Skills & Abilities:

• Keen interest in native boreal plants and seeds.

• Basic plant identification skills.

• Basic knowledge of nurseries and/or gardening.

• Ability to work in a team as well as independently when required.

• Be physically fit for fieldwork such as seeds collection, tree planting, and vegetation survey.

• Willingness to work under various field conditions (e.g., rain, heat).

• Willingness to travel.

• Ability to follow instructions.

Qualifications:

• Must be able to work full-time Monday to Friday from July 2026 - December 31, 2026.

• Must be a current college or undergraduate university student enrolled in a Biological Sciences, Ecology, Land Reclamation, or Environmental Science related program.

• College or polytechnic post-secondary students are prioritized, but university students in an undergraduate program will also be considered.

• All applicants must possess a valid Class 5 driver’s license with 2 years driving experience. A clean drivers abstract must be provided at time of hiring.

• Experience driving a pick-up truck is an asset.

Remuneration:  Refer to salary range noted on this posting, plus 12% in lieu of statutory holidays and vacation pay. We offer a Northern Living Allowance ($325 bi-weekly) to assist with accommodation.

NAIT is committed to a transparent, fair, and human-centered hiring experience. All candidates are assessed directly by our recruitment and hiring teams.

About NAIT

We are known as one of Alberta’s top employers. Being part of a community that makes a difference in the lives of students, staff, industry clients and partners, NAIT’s culture reflects our shared values of respect, collaboration, celebration, creativity, and accountability.

People are what make NAIT great, and we prioritize the employee experience. For eligible positions, we offer benefits and unique perks focusing on health and wellness, work-life balance, recognition, and professional and personal growth. In addition to excellent vacation time, eligible employees receive paid time off between Christmas and New Year’s.

NAIT supports a flexible work environment, enabling staff to request approval for on-campus, off-site, or hybrid work arrangements based on the nature of the role. Please note that remote positions require employees to reside within Canada.

NAIT is committed to fostering a safe environment that supports equity and cultivates inclusion through our Centre for Community and Belonging (CCB) and our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy. We are a proud partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion. While we encourage all qualified applicants to apply, only those being considered will be contacted. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please connect with us at [email protected].

Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this opportunity.