ISAP Project Specialist – Essex
Providing Hands on experience with the ISAP program
ISAP Project Specialist – Essex
* Please Note: These positions are dependent upon external funding, yet to be received by the OFAH Foundation*
Location: Essex Region Conservation Authority, Essex, Ontario
Job Length: May 2026 between 8-16 weeks, specific date and duration to be determined (pending funding approval)
Job Term: 1 full-time seasonal contract position, usually 35 hours per week, specific hours to be determined (pending funding approval)
Salary: $25.11 per hour + 4% vacation pay
Application Deadline: March 29, 2026 (11:59 PM)
About the Opportunity
The Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters Foundation (OFAH Foundation) and Essex Region Conservation Authority is seeking a knowledgeable and motivated ISAP Project Specialist to support and advance the Invading Species Awareness Program (ISAP). This role plays a key leadership function in conducting surveillance, mapping, and management of invasive species in the Essex Region. Other responsibilities include speaking and conducting seminars, workshops, and/or presentations on invasive species.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced conservation professional who is passionate about invasive species prevention, applied conservation, and community education.
Our People & Culture
Rooted in the values of our community, we share a deep passion for conservation, fishing, and hunting.
We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplace where employees are empowered to thrive.
We invest in professional growth and teamwork, ensuring our employees feel valued, supported, and united in our mission to protect Ontario’s fish and wildlife.
What You’ll Be Doing
You will lead and support ISAP initiatives across Ontario, working closely with internal teams, partners, volunteers, and the public.
Conservation, Field Work & Stewardship:
- Lead and support invasive species monitoring, surveillance, and control activities, including inventory, removal, and data collection for priority species
- Coordinate and supervise field teams and community stewardship groups to ensure safe, accurate, and effective field operations
- Assist with the planning and implementation of invasive species management projects on conservation lands and public and/or private properties
- Apply best practices for field work, including accurate data recording, use of technical equipment, record keeping, and entry of observations into EDDMapS
- Support program safety planning and field logistics
- Work outdoors in varying weather conditions while adhering to health and safety protocols
- Develop knowledge of the biology, identification, and environmental impacts of priority invasive species
Education, Outreach & Public Engagement:
- Represent the ISAP at community events, meetings, and public outreach initiatives
- Deliver invasive species presentations and training sessions virtually and in person for community organizations, volunteers, and partners
- Respond to public inquiries and engage with diverse audiences at events such as festivals, fishing derbies, lake association meetings, and educational programs
- Support stewardship outreach, awareness campaigns, and habitat protection initiatives through public speaking and community engagement
Communications & Program Support:
- Respond to internal and external requests for information related to invasive species
- Support the ISAP leadership team in implementing the annual communications plan
- Assist with the development and maintenance of digital content, including website updates, social media posts, education videos, and promotional materials
- Utilize and further develop computer skills using tools such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, Google Drive, and EDDMapS
What We’re Looking For
Eligibility (as per the requirements of the Canada Summer Jobs Program):
- Be between 15 and 30 years of age at the beginning of the employment period
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of employment
- Have a valid Social Insurance Number and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations
Education:
You must:
- Have completed or enrolled in post-secondary education in Biology, Ecology, Fish & Wildlife, Environmental Science, Natural Resources Management, a related field of study or equivalent relevant work experience
- Have a minimum three (3) years of experience in aquatic monitoring, invasive species outreach, or a related field
Skills & Experience:
You bring:
- Strong knowledge of invasive species and field work principles, including accurate data collection, use of technical equipment, and record keeping
- Experience leading or supervising work and engaging volunteers, community groups, and the public in stewardship, awareness, and outreach initiatives
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public presentations and development of outreach materials
- Advanced proficiency with computer and database management tools (e.g., MS Office, Outlook, Teams, internet-based platforms)
- Strong organizational, problem solving, and attention to detail skills
- Ability to work independently or as part of a team, with minimal supervision, and flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, and in field settings
Assets (nice to have):
- Personal interest in hunting, fishing, and conservation
How You’ll Succeed:
This role is best suited to someone who demonstrates the following core competencies:
- Adaptability – able to work across field, office, and outreach settings, adjust to changing priorities, schedules, weather conditions, and operational needs while serving as a team lead
- Collaboration – works effectively with colleagues, partners, volunteers, and the public
- Communication – confident sharing information clearly and confidently with the teams, volunteers, and the public through presentations and one-on-one engagement
- Initiative – takes ownership of responsibilities for self and team members, works proactively with minimal supervision
- Service-Oriented – committed to supporting OFAH members, partners, communities, and the public through responsive service, education, and conservation stewardship
Work Environment & Requirements
This role includes both office and outdoor field work. You should be comfortable with:
- Working outdoors in all weather (heat, cold, rain, snow)
- Working on water while operating/maneuvering a small boat and/or canoe
- Regular to occasional travel and field work
- Sitting for extended periods while completing computer-based tasks
- Lifting 100-150 lbs with assistance
You must have or be able to obtain:
- Valid Class G driver’s licence (Class G2 is not sufficient)
- Clean driver’s abstract
- Pleasure Craft Operator Card
- OFAH membership (required at time of hire)
- Criminal record check (required every three years)
Why Work With OFAH Foundation
You’ll gain:
- A leadership role in Ontario’s invasive species prevention and aquatic conservation efforts
- Hands-on experience supporting invasive species monitoring, management, and stewardship
- Public education and outreach experience in diverse community settings
- Professional development alongside conservation professionals and partner organizations
- A strong professional network within Ontario’s conservation and natural resources sector
How to Apply
Please submit:
- A cover letter explaining how your skills and experience match this role and your résumé
- ISAP Project Specialist Application Form
Send to:
Emma Rupprecht, ISAP Administrator
OFAH Foundation
isap@ofah.org
PO Box 2800, Peterborough, ON K9J 8L5
Deadline: March 29, 2026 at 11:59 pm
Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Equity & Accessibility
OFAH Foundation is an equal opportunity and accessible employer. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Julie Young at aodafeedback@ofah.org.
OFAH is for all Ontarians
Connecting the Hunting Community
The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters is committed to providing inclusive and educational hunting programs that foster a strong, united community of conservation-minded hunters.