Youth Intern

Summer Fisheries Youth Intern (1-2 Positions)

PROGRAM

The Summer Fisheries Youth Internship Program is an initiative created by the Fisheries department.

The Fisheries department is responsible for the stewardship of the Tsawout First Nation's (TFN) aquatic resources and habitats. The Department provides vital services for TFN including a productive and sustainable fishery, safe sources of seafood, the recovery and conservation of protected resources to maintain healthy ecosystems. The Department is key to the scientific understanding and management of, not only the TFN’s fisheries, but also its waterways in general. By monitoring the health and population of the fish and other residents of the TFN territorial oceans, and nearshore habitats, the Department develops an understanding of the overall condition of Tsawout waters.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The main purpose of this seasonal position is to train and equip future stewards of Tsawout marine territorial waters and fisheries. The Summer Fisheries Intern will assist the Fisheries Program in all aspects of domestic fisheries, fish habitat restoration, and enhancement. The intern will also work to increase community participation in fisheries related activities. Overall, as a participant in the Summer Fisheries Youth Intern Program, you’ll have the chance to develop valuable skills, knowledge, and connections while making a positive impact on the health of local fisheries and aquatic ecosystems.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

The Fisheries Youth Intern operates under the supervision of the Tsawout Marine Use Planner, Tsawout Fisheries Biologist and Research partner (UBC Centre for Indigenous Fisheries MSc Student: Nicole Jung).

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

The Fisheries Intern does not supervise staff.

POSITION START AND END DATES

• The start date for these positions is as soon as interns are available (April or May). Position start date can be flexible to the youth intern candidates’ potential schooling schedules but must be discussed with the position supervisors.
• The end date for these positions is end of August, with potential for extension.

SALARY & Hours

• $25 per hour
• 20-35 hours per week (average 20 hours/3 days per week)
• Hours will fluctuate between weeks and hires will be expected to help co-create their own schedules with their supervisors. Youth intern candidates must be willing and able to work ~1-2 hours on each weekend.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participating in educational workshops and training sessions to learn about fisheries biology, ecology, and conservation principles.
• Assisting with field research activities, such as fish population surveys, habitat assessments, and water quality monitoring.
• Learning traditional fishing techniques and cultural practices from Indigenous elders and community members.
• Participating in fisheries-related field trips, excursions, and outdoor activities to gain practical experience and knowledge.
• Contributing to community-based fisheries monitoring programs by collecting and analyzing data on fish populations, habitat conditions, and environmental factors.
• Engaging in habitat restoration projects, river clean-up efforts, and other conservation initiatives to improve the health of aquatic ecosystems.
• Collaborating with peers and implement outreach and education campaigns to raise awareness about sustainable fishing practices and environmental stewardship.
• Networking with professionals in the field of fisheries management and conservation to explore potential career pathways and opportunities for further education and training.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

The Fisheries Intern does not have financial responsibility.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Applicants between 16-30 years old are welcome to apply
• Preference will be given to Tsawout members and secondarily other W̱SÁNEĆ/Indigenous youth
• No previous experience required, as training will be provided for activities described above.
• Experience in keyboarding, word processing, excel spreadsheets and other standard computer applications an asset. Clean criminal record check required, if above 19yo.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Computer skills in MS Office an asset;
• Ability to perform fieldwork under strenuous conditions during all weather conditions;
• Ability to work early morning, late night hours and weekends or other fishery needs;
• Ability to establish and maintain respectful, cooperative and productive working relationships with a variety of individuals to complete work assignments;  
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and to exercise sound judgment and discretion when dealing with sensitive issues;
• Ability to deal effectively and efficiently with occasionally aggressive or demanding individuals to provide or obtain information to clarify or resolve issues;
• Ability to effectively communicate and respond to routine requests or inquiries from TFN staff, members and stakeholders;
• Strong work ethic including the ability to take initiative; to attend work on a regular and consistent basis, and to demonstrate a collaborative approach to problem solving.
• Adheres to departmental policies and procedures, and all other policies, bylaws and laws adopted by Council as well as legislated policies;
• Promotes a safe work place; ensures that all established safety procedures are followed;
• Ensures that service quality standards are maintained and consistently delivered in all areas of responsibility;
• Presents a professional, positive and helpful attitude at all times when interacting with clients, families, community and co-workers;

OTHER FACTORS
Culture/Language
Respect for and working knowledge of the Tsawout culture is required.

Personal Attributes

The Fisheries Youth Intern maintains strict confidentiality in performing their duties and demonstrates the following personal attributes: Respect, Empathy, Strenght, Pride and Equality.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical Demands

• Extended periods of extensive fieldwork strenuous conditions during all weather conditions;

• Lifting (approximately 50 lbs);
• Bending or stooping;
• Flexibility in scheduling which includes weekends;
• Potential for conflict from employees, the public or Nation members;
• May be required to attend meetings and community events outside of normal office hours and may be required to travel out of town to attend activities such as meetings, conferences, or workshops.

Tools/Equipment

• Office tools and equipment such as computers, laptops, scanners, photocopiers, calculators, telephone system, and sets-up audio-visual equipment for presentation purposes;
• Computer applications such as electronic mail, spreadsheets, and word processing.
• Training will be provided to operate various types of fishing gear, boats, motors, aquatic equipment, and navigation aids and software such as marine radio, GPS, sonar, radar and navigation chart software; communications devices including two-way radio.