Job Title: Indigenous Engagement Intern

Reports to: Green Energy Engagement Coordinator

Job Scope: Island-wide

Position Type: Full-time

Duration of Term: 15 weeks

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated intern to join our team at the Cape Breton Partnership to work with the Green Energy Engagement Coordinator on creating strategies for Indigenous Community engagement regarding the energy transition in Unama’ki – Cape Breton. This role is an excellent opportunity for an Indigenous student interested in community development, renewable energy, and Indigenous relations.

·       Gain first-hand experience in community engagement and be part of an inclusive energy transition.

·       Develop valuable skills in research, strategy development, and relationship building.

·       Contribute to meaningful projects that support sustainable development and community empowerment.

·       In collaboration with the Green Energy Engagement Coordinator, identify community leaders within each Indigenous Community in Unama’ki – Cape Breton and create an advisory group to help inform a community needs assessment.

·       Through the advisory group, identify community needs with respect to information sharing and participation in the energy transition, particularly with respect to renewable energy.

·       Assist in developing community-centered engagement strategies that reflect the identified needs and priorities.

·       Establish and maintain strong relationships with community leaders and other key stakeholders.

·       Actively participate in community meetings, workshops, and other engagement activities.

·       Conduct research on successful engagement models used in Indigenous Communities across Canada, particularly in the energy sector, and other relevant sectors.

·       Prepare reports and presentations to summarize engagement work that will be shared with communities, partners, and government.

·       Additional duties as required.

·       Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, a post-secondary program (e.g., Environmental Studies, Indigenous Studies, Community Development, or related fields).

·       Working knowledge of the energy sector, legislation and policy, and renewable energy technologies.

·       Excellent English written and verbal communication skills.

·       Effective presentation skills with an ability to create and deliver engaging content.

·       Skilled relationship builder who is able to build rapport and trust with communities.

·       Research and analytic skills, with an ability to summarize findings into accessible content.  

·       Strong problem solving, time management, and planning skills.

·       Ability to take initiative and accountability.

·       Ability to work effectively and efficiently with minimal supervision.

·       Must be a team-player with a positive attitude and proven interpersonal skills.

·       Must be tactful and able to exercise sound judgement and discretion when working or interacting with community leaders, diverse community groups, and all levels of government.

·       Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.) 

·       A valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation, as frequent travel throughout the Island, between Indigenous Communities, will likely be required to fulfill the duties of this role.

Nice-to-have Skills and Qualifications: 

·       Familiarity with Mi’kmaw communities will be considered a strong asset.

·       Knowledge of Mi’kmaw experiences and culture will be considered a strong asset.

·       Working week is Monday-Friday, 40 hours, in a hybrid environment that will include travel to Indigenous Communities across Unama’ki – Cape Breton. Remote work will require a strong and reliable internet connection. Laptop will be provided.

·       Frequent sitting or standing while using a computer is required.

·       Flexibility in working hours required as some work may happen outside of regular hours.

Please submit your resume and cover letter.

About the Cape Breton Partnership: 

The Cape Breton Partnership is Unama’ki – Cape Breton’s private sector-led economic development organization that supports companies and entrepreneurs by promoting our island as a great place to live, work, and invest; growing a culture that values and celebrates creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship; and connecting entrepreneurs and companies to the resources they need to succeed.

 

The Cape Breton Partnership runs a number of programs and initiatives Island-wide, and administers the Cape Breton Regional Enterprise Network (CB REN) and the Cape Breton Regional Municipality Regional Enterprise Network (CBRM REN). With approximately 25 staff located across Unama’ki – Cape Breton, the Cape Breton Partnership works with all levels of government, and private and non-profit groups to help foster inclusive economic growth on the Island.