Photo: Flickr

Young people with an interest in environmental management and conservation will now have further opportunity to gain experience and skills.

The new government program offers work experience with BC Parks and the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) through the fall and the winter months. 

The $1.8-million Youth Employment Program (YEP) incorporates direct mentoring from experienced park rangers and conservation officers, and will focus strongly on diversity and inclusion of selected candidates. 

Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy George Heyman says the new positions will provide young people with opportunities, and reflects the government's commitment to a diverse and inclusive workforce.

"Creating job opportunities now and providing building blocks for future careers are our priorities as we build back a better and more secure future for young British Columbians, whose jobs have been hardest hit by COVID-19. We all benefit from enhancements to BC Parks and stewardship of our natural environment."

Duties will range from facility and trail maintenance, to public outreach, education and invasive species removal. Some applicants will also have the option of undertaking project work in Smithers and in Victoria. 

COS will offer 18 YEP positions, and an existing candidates list will be used to select these individuals, with the possibility of a second hiring phase in late August. 

BC Parks will have 25 new YEP positions made available by mid-August. 

"More boots on the ground will help ensure nature is safeguarded and that British Columbians can continue to enjoy outdoor places that are becoming increasingly popular destinations to visit," says Bruce Passmore, executive director, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society - British Columbia.

"We applaud this new initiative to hire young people into conservation jobs as part of B.C.'s economic recovery."

For more information on YEP positions in BC Parks, visit the website. For information regarding the CO service, visit the Facebook page.