Opportunity

Come join a dynamic department helping BC organizations tackle real-world problems through evidence-based decisions. Be a part of the movement to prepare communities to tackle the growing risk of wildfire. Under the supervision of the Lead Researcher and geographic information systems (GIS) specialists at Selkirk Innovates, the intern will conduct GIS-based research and development to support the City of Nelson in its wildfire risk mitigation initiatives. This includes:

• Conducting a structure density study for built-up areas within the municipality; and
• Updating a City-maintained map of FireSmart assessments.

The ideal candidate is a career-oriented individual who is looking to gain valuable work experience in geospatial research and with local government.

This Mitacs internship will be based at Selkirk Innovates, Selkirk College’s department that focuses on applied research and innovation. In addition to fulfilling their research responsibilities, the intern will support the department’s operations and/or interdepartmental collaborations.

An internship experience at Selkirk Innovates brings many career development benefits. Interns work with their supervisors to develop a customized learning plan which can facilitate training, networking, mentoring, and other career development activities over the course of the position. The successful applicant will be required to enroll in the Selkirk Innovates applied research internship training program, which does not have a fee.

Select applicants may be offered a position on an eligibility list to fill similar positions if available.

Position is only open to residents of British Columbia.

Responsibilities:

• Undertake a literature review to identify best practices/options for structure density analyses in relation to wildfire risk
• Co-develop objectives for the structure density analysis in collaboration with Selkirk Innovates researchers and City of Nelson staff
• Conduct a structure density analysis and present results in a series of maps and data tables
• Update a City-maintained FireSmart Assessment map and produce a related PDF and/or web map

Qualifications:

• Well-developed GIS research skills. Includes:
  • Experience collecting and working with geospatial datasets
  • Experience with GIS-based data analysis using the latest GIS software
  • Ability to visualize geospatial research results using a variety of methods, including web-based mapping
• Enrolled in, or recently graduated from, a recognized post-secondary program in geographic information systems or another acceptable combination of education and work experience with GIS. Please note that this position requires an in-depth understanding of GIS techniques and is therefore not a good fit for candidates who have only completed an introductory GIS course with no additional skill development through work experience.
• Interest in and knowledge of wildfire risk management
• Strong communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal, time management, and task management skills
• High level of professionalism and experience working with external clients
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Access to a personal computer with Microsoft Office programs and a suitable home workspace. Access to a computer with geospatial software is an asset and a requirement for candidates who wish to work remotely

Submit resume and cover letter as attachments to lrethoret@selkirk.ca with the subject: Wildfire Risk Mapping Intern.

Posting will remain open until filled.