Natural Heritage Planning Student

Summer student applications are now being accepted for the position of Natural Heritage Student in the Planning & Urban Design Department, Development Services Commission. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter online by January 11, 2026.

Join us and make a lasting difference!

Summary:

The successful candidate will be responsible for independently and accurately completing ecological field surveys and site visits to confirm and describe common ecosystems, vegetation communities and plants within city-owned natural areas. The focus for this student position will be the mapping of invasive plant species and the monitoring of restoration projects throughout Markham.  A significant amount of time will be spent in the field. The student may also be involved in research on environmental planning topics, review of environmental impact studies, ecological restoration planning and other duties as assigned.  

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Independently undertaking vegetation field surveys on city-owned natural areas
• Collecting and digitizing field data and observations in a safe, accurate and well-organized manner
• Preparing natural heritage inventory reports and maps to describe vegetation communities and invasive species, and to provide recommendations for management and stewardship 
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a University program in Ecology, Biology, Geography, Forestry, Environmental Planning or related field
• Demonstrated experience or course work in the identification of common plants and ecosystems in Southern Ontario in the field and through air photo interpretation is required
• Knowledge of natural heritage planning and landscape ecology principles
• Certification in Ontario Wetland Evaluation System (OWES) or Ecological Land Classification System (ELC) would be an asset
• Experience with GIS mapping or analysis would be an asset
• Experience in conducting wildlife surveys would be an asset
• Must be highly motivated and have good communication skills
• Must be able to contribute positively to a respectful professional environment
• Valid G Drivers license. Access to a private vehicle is preferred.  

Duration and Hours: 

• Beginning of May to August 2026
• Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm, 35 hours per week (excluding Holidays)

Location: On-site at the City of Markham office located at 101 Town Centre Boulevard, Markham, ON

CORE BEHAVIOURS 

• Service Excellence: Meets or exceeds service standards when interacting with customers in the community and in the organization.
• Change & Innovation: Responds positively and professionally to change and helps others through change.
• Teamwork & Relationship Building: Interacts with others in an inclusive, collaborative and respectful way that creates effective working relationships.
• Communication: Communicates in a clear, professional and respectful way; demonstrates active listening.
• Accountable & Results Oriented: Demonstrates ethical behavior and accountability, aligns with City values, and abides by relevant policies and legislation.
• Management & Leadership: Demonstrates self-management, professionalism and engagement; leads by example 

The City of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible and barrier free employment practices and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve. Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier free hiring process.  

Please respect our scent free area by not wearing scented products when visiting the office.