[Hiring] Policy Research Assistant @Wildlife Conservation Society Canada

Role Description

WCS Canada is seeking a Policy Research Assistant to support applied research and policy analysis related to environmental law, policy, impact assessment, and the impacts of major infrastructure and industrial development on nature. This is a contract position averaging 15 hours per week for roughly seven months, from early/mid-December to late June or early July (exact dates to be set with the successful candidate). The position is well suited to a Master’s or PhD student or recent graduate, but applicants from other backgrounds are welcome.

Working closely with the Public Policy Specialist, the Policy Research Assistant will:

• Conduct literature reviews
• Analyze legislation and policy documents
• Review environmental assessment and regulatory records
• Synthesize research findings to inform policy recommendations and organizational priorities

Initial research will focus on how Canadian laws and regulatory processes address impacts to nature, including how cumulative effects associated with major infrastructure projects are assessed and managed.

The position is ideal for an individual with a strong interest in environmental policy, conservation, and applied research. The role offers an opportunity to contribute to evidence-based policy development and support WCS Canada's efforts to advance conservation outcomes across Canada.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in or has completed a Master's degree or PhD program in a related field (e.g., Public Policy, Environmental Policy, Environmental Law, Environmental Studies, Political Science, Biology) or has equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated experience conducting academic or applied research, including literature reviews and synthesis of complex information.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to interpret policy, legal, scientific, and technical documents.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a remote work environment.
• Demonstrated interest in environmental conservation, biodiversity, climate policy, or related issues.

Requirements

• Knowledge of Canada's federal impact assessment framework and environmental regulatory systems.
• Familiarity with major infrastructure development processes and related policy issues.
• Experience reviewing legislation, regulations, government policies, or environmental assessment documentation.
• Experience with qualitative research methods and qualitative analysis software such as NVivo.
• Knowledge of biodiversity conservation, cumulative effects assessment, the mitigation hierarchy, or natural resource management.
• Understanding of Indigenous rights, governance, and participation in environmental decision-making processes.

Benefits

• Vacation pay
• Paid sick and personal emergency leave
• Self-care days
• DEIJA Team
• Weekly Wellness sessions
• Mentorship program

How to apply

Please submit your resume with a cover letter explaining your interest in this position and relevant skills and experience.

For questions regarding the position, please contact Victoria Goodday at [email protected].

For questions regarding the application process, please contact Okechukwu Ezibe at [email protected].

Application closing date: 27 November 2026.

Accessibility and inclusivity

WCS Canada is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible work environment. We are dedicated to providing accommodations throughout the hiring process, in accordance with applicable accessibility and human rights legislation.

If you require accommodations at any stage of the recruitment or selection process, please contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone at 437-770-2776. We will work with you to meet your needs in a timely and respectful manner.

We recognize that strong candidates may hesitate to apply if they do not meet every listed qualification. If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity and believe you have relevant experience and skills, we encourage you to apply.