Conservation Intern (summer job)

We will give extra consideration to people who self-identify as First Nations, Métis or Inuit.

About CPAWS Yukon

Based in Whitehorse on the traditional territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, CPAWS Yukon aims to conserve the Yukon’s ecologically and culturally important lands and waters for all. We advocate for protection of wild spaces in a manner grounded in respect for both traditional knowledge and western science and believe that this can only be achieved through collaboration, and reconciliation with the Indigenous peoples of this land. We represent the views of many Yukoners who want the Yukon to be an example of how people can live well with the natural world that we depend upon and aim to work “in a good way” that recognizes the agency that First Nations and Indigenous People have in being key decision makers and stewards of the land and water.

Working with CPAWS Yukon means you have the amazing opportunity to live, work, and grow in one of the most beautiful places in Canada, while working with a committed and passionate team of environmental advocates. You’ll be respected for your unique contributions and supported in your unique needs. Our office is located in a bright, modern space in downtown Whitehorse next to a city park and close to the Yukon River. This welcoming place is dog-friendly, accessible, and includes a kitchenette, and bike storage.

About the role

Do you have a passion for nature and the environment? CPAWS Yukon is seeking a Conservation Intern to work with us during the summer of 2026. We have a lot of flexibility with this position and encourage individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and with varied interests to apply.

As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work on a project of your choice that aligns with your own interests and our organization’s mission. We will provide one-on-one mentorship, include you in all staff meetings, and invite you to campaign team meetings. Our goal is to provide an employment opportunity where you can flourish and develop skills to meet your career objectives while learning about the workings of our non-profit organization. In addition to this project, you will help arrange conservation focused events in the Yukon.

Much of the work requires you to take initiative and be self-directed, while our team is always available to answer any questions and assist you with the project and outreach activities.

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Conservation Intern will perform the following major duties:

Personal Project (60%)

Work with the Operations Manager and campaign staff to develop a project to be completed over the course of the internship. To ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from this summer employment, we will work with you to tailor this project to an area of your interest and/or study. The project needs to have a clear benefit to our organization and our current campaigns but is very flexible otherwise.
CPAWS Yukon will choose the best mentor for your project once you have decided on the topic. This could be a member of our Conservation team, Outreach team, or Communications team.
A project that benefits our organization and aligns with your interests is generally acceptable. Possible projects include, but are not limited to:
desktop research, policy analysis or GIS work
a brochure or story map highlighting a conservation issue
creative endeavors such as photography, videography, or art
involving the community in our campaigns.
Work with the Communications Coordinator to write a blog post about your project.
*Note that the project isn’t an academic research project, nor does it usually involve any fieldwork.

Community Outreach (30%)

Work with the Communications, Conservation, and Outreach teams to prepare and facilitate community outreach activities & events and communicate with the public about our campaigns. While events most often take place in or around Whitehorse, we also hope to give you the opportunity to work on, and attend, a community-based event outside of Whitehorse.
General (10%)

Attend weekly staff meetings
Attend other CPAWS Yukon meetings to learn more about our current campaigns and how we work as a non-profit organization.
Eligibility

The wage subsidy program we use to help pay for this position requires candidates to meet all three criteria:

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 the employment.
have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada.
Employment period: Employment must be for a minimum of 12 weeks, can’t exceed 16 weeks, and must occur between May 5 and August 30, 2026.

Hiring process

Interviews will be scheduled between February and March 2026. Interviews will take approximately 45-60 minutes and can be in person at our office or online.
We aim to offer the position to the successful candidate by mid-March.