The ClimateSense Professional Internship Program is designed to build climate change adaptation capacity in recent post-secondary graduates as well as host organizations within the public and private sectors. Interns will complete two internship placements: one with a provincial government department or agency and one with a non-governmental organization, business, industry association, or other external organization. Interns will work with mentors within the host organization to complete a sector-specific adaptation project, and will also take part in the ClimateSense Training and Professional Development Program.

The successful intern will have the opportunity to explore climate change adaptation in both the public and private sectors during their placement, garnering valuable experience that will enhance future work opportunities.

This internship involves placement with the PEI Department of Transportation, Infrastructure and Energy (PEI Energy Corporation) and an external placement with a yet to be confirmed partner organization in the community. As the ClimateSense Intern you will work closely with mentors at the PEI Energy Corporation and at the assigned external partner organization, for a period of six months each.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Evaluate risks and risk mitigation opportunities associated with the changing climate and PEI Energy Corp's properties and assets  

 including:

• 73 MW of wind energy generation (four wind farms)
• 30 MW of proposed wind energy (for 2020 commissioning)
• Substations, collector and transmission lines
• Submarine cable between PEI and NB

• Develop an adaptation strategy for these existing assets and future development which considers the expected effects of climate change
• Work with external organization on an asset inventory, risk assessment and adaptation strategy
• Participate in the ClimateSense Training and Professional Development Program, as well as other training opportunities provided by the mentoring organization
• Participate in monitoring and evaluation activities throughout the duration of the internship
• Support the integration of climate change considerations into the work environment

QUALIFICATIONS:

Successful applicants will possess the following qualifications:

• Graduate of a post-secondary institution between January 2018 to May 2020
• Applicants must have successfully completed a Bachelor of  Science degree; Engineering or similar relevant degree, or equivalent technical diploma;
• Knowledge of climate change and adaptation techniques will be considered an asset
• Knowledge of energy sector and renewable energy systems will be considered an asset
• Demonstrable background knowledge and/or education in another relevant environmental science
• Knowledge of climate science and experience with wind energy will be considered an asset
• Prior tertiary level course work or climate related training will be considered an asset
• Self-motivated candidate with a proven ability to work independently with minimum supervision
• Strong organizational skills
• Experience with personal computers and a proficiency in the use of word processing & spreadsheets
• Must be able to work independently and take initiative where appropriate
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to speak persuasively and to write quickly, effectively, and concisely
• Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic skills and the ability to effectively lead or participate on teams in a multi-disciplinary environment   
• Must be adaptable and flexible within a variety of situations
• Ability to work outdoors
• The successful candidate must have their own transportation, a valid driver’s license and the ability to work at various locations across PEI
• The successful applicant will be required to provide proof of an acceptable criminal records check
• Additional relevant education, experience and Indigenous knowledge will be considered an asset