Stewardship Outreach Specialist

 Job Status: Contract, Full-Time (15 month contract starting ASAP) 

Compensation: Grade 7: $39.13 to $47.62 per hour  

Number of Vacancies: 1 existing 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: UTRCA, 1424 Clarke Road, London, Ontario 

Application Closing Date: October 30, 2026 

At the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA), our mission is Communities engaged in a healthy, resilient environment. We work in partnership with the 17 municipalities within the Upper Thames River watershed, whose appointed representatives bring both urban and rural perspective to our Board of Directors. Together, we shape policies and programs that reflect the needs of our communities and support the long-term health of our watershed. 

We 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 spans approximately 3,421 square kilometers and includes predominately rural landscapes, as well as the urban centers of London, Stratford, and Woodstock. We serve a diverse population of approximately 600,000 residents. Our Conservation Areas offer outdoor recreational opportunities that welcome people of all ages and backgrounds, helping to educate visitors and share conservation messages that support the health of our watershed.

As a member of our team, you will support our mission by contributing your skills, knowledge, and experience to meaningful work. We believe diverse perspectives make us stronger and are committed to creating a collaborative, inclusive environment where people feel supported, respected, and encouraged to do their best work together. If this opportunity aligns with your experience and interests, we invite you to apply.

Summary 

The Stewardship Outreach Specialist will develop and initiate the implementation of a Stewardship Outreach and Engagement Plan, with a focus on agricultural stewardship. The plan will be designed to:

•  increase awareness of the issue of excess phosphorus in the Thames River and its tributaries;  
• promote uptake of beneficial management practices (BMPs) that reduce phosphorus losses, and;  
• encourage maintenance of phosphorus reduction efforts.  

Components of the project will include the development and implementation of a communication and marketing plan including targeted messaging, products, events, and in-person and on-line engagement. The Outreach and Engagement Plan is intended to be an integral component of the UTRCA’s Stewardship Services Program and will support broad efforts to implement agricultural BMPs. This position works continuously in collaboration with staff from other UTRCA divisions and units.

Qualifications:

• University Degree or college diploma from an accredited post-secondary institution in Communications and/or Marketing.  
• Three (3) years of demonstrated knowledge and experience working in Communications and/or Marketing role. 
• Additional experience to include: 
• website applications including WordPress; 
• social media including Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, and others; 
• organizing and promoting events; 
• digital media and video production, and; 
• Adobe Creative Suite including InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop. 
• Strong understanding of agricultural systems, environmental pressures, and stewardship practices. 
• Detailed knowledge of the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of communication plans and products that meet accessibility standards. 
• Excellent communication skills to engage with staff and diverse stakeholder groups. 
• Excellent project management and time management skills.   
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, Teams, as well as other database and information management software.

Certifications, Memberships, Licenses 

• Valid Ontario Driver’s License (G class)

Apply Now! 

To be considered, 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 with 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.