Job Status: Permanent full-time
Compensation: $39.13 (starting) – $47.62/hour
Number of Positions: 1 vacancy
Hours of Work: 35 hours per week
Benefits: Comprehensive Group Benefits, Pension Plan (OMERS) and Vacation package; Free access to UTRCA Conservation Areas (Fanshawe, Pittock and Wildwood)
Location: Wildwood Conservation Area, with travel within Perth County and area and to UTRCA Watershed Conservation Centre, London
Application Closing Date: April 30, 2026
Who Are We?
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s (UTRCA) mission is to conserve and protect the watershed through science, education, policy, action, and experiences in nature. The 17 municipalities within the Upper Thames River watershed appoint representatives to the UTRCA’s Board of Directors who represent the local urban and rural communities, deciding policies and programs that will lead to a healthy watershed. Our programs and services focus on five key areas:
- Protecting people and property and supporting safe development
- Delivering landowner stewardship
- Providing natural spaces and recreational opportunities
- Making science-based decisions
- Empowering communities and youth
The Upper Thames River watershed encompasses an area of 3,421 square kilometers and is mainly rural but includes the urban centres of London, Stratford, and Woodstock. The UTRCA serves a total population of approximately 539,500 residents.
Who Are You?
As a member of the UTRCA team, you will contribute to the mission of conserving and protecting the environment through your skill and expertise, but also through your passion for the environment and calling to support change and make an impact. You will collaborate with like-minded colleagues to facilitate innovative approaches to the work you do in a supportive, friendly, and connected environment. The UTRCA embraces togetherness – you will know your colleagues, have a great time working together, and feel like you belong here. If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you!
Role Summary
The Community Partnership Specialist is responsible for promoting environmental health and the role of the Authority within the Upper Thames Watershed by creating partnerships and collaborations among the UTRCA and watershed communities, organizations and individuals in the northern portion of the watershed.
Responsibilities
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with community groups, agencies, and stakeholders to identify environmental priorities and deliver watershed restoration projects, education programs, and public events.
- Support individuals and watershed organizations by coordinating project implementation, preparing funding applications, and developing promotional and engagement materials.
- Lead and participate in community education initiatives that promote watershed health and increase awareness of the Authority’s role, including major public events and outreach programs.
- Secure funding for subwatershed initiatives by researching opportunities, preparing grant proposals, and engaging government, corporate, and community funders.
- Plan, track, and report on subwatershed projects, ensuring accurate activity reporting, financial records, and compliance with funding requirements.
- Participate in and, where required, coordinate technical and community committees supporting watershed planning and implementation.
- Communicate project progress and outcomes to internal and external stakeholders, including the Board of Directors, staff, and funders; maintain up‑to‑date project web content.
- Act as an internal resource on local environmental issues, community initiatives, and watershed trends.
- Lead and support public involvement and community action programs across the watershed, including monitoring, education, restoration, and community forestry initiatives.
Qualifications
- A degree from a recognized university in geography, biology, environmental science or resources management;
- A minimum of three years’ experience in a related resource management, communications or teaching role;
- Demonstrated understanding of the educational system and familiarity with the stakeholders of the UTRCA;
- A strong natural history knowledge base;
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills;
- Ability to work well as a member of a team;
- Good organizational skills and ability to work with limited supervision.
Certifications, Memberships, Licenses
- Valid Ontario Driver’s License.
Background Check Requirements
- Successful candidates will be required to provide a satisfactory Vulnerable Persons Screening police check prior to commencement of employment.
Apply Now!
Qualified candidates are invited to apply by April 30, 2026 to be considered for this opportunity. Please submit your cover letter and resume to the UTRCA, in confidence, via:
E-mail:jobs@thamesriver.ca
Mail:1424 Clarke Road, London, ON, N5V 5B9
Please indicate the position title in the subject line of your email. We thank all individuals who expressed interest in this role. Please note, only those selected to move forward in the interview process will be contacted.
We are committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment that is free from discrimination and fosters belonging. We encourage and welcome applications from qualified members of the four designated groups, and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
Accommodation is available and will be provided in all aspects of the hiring process as required under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation and as request by applicants. Should you require accommodation in making an application, please contact UTRCA by phone at 519-451-2800 or at the email address above.
Personal information collected in relation to the recruitment process is collected under the authority outlined in the Conservation Authorities Act R.S.O. 1990, c. C.27, s. 18 (1) and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. Questions about this collection of personal information should be directed to: General Manager, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, 1424 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 5B9, 519-451-2800.