Position Description 

Student Energy is a global charity building the next generation of energy leaders. We are a hard-working, fast-paced team devoted to youth empowerment in the world of energy. We develop innovative programs, meaningful international partnerships, and serve our community of young energy changemakers. Check out our theory of change to see what we do and why.

Our Research and Youth Engagement team conducts original research projects, leads youth advisory councils, and develops data and evidence based initiatives to put young people’s voices at the forefront of the energy transition. We work with organizations, governments, companies, and communities to more meaningfully engage young people as collaborators and partners, and to support youth-led initiatives that contribute to a just and sustainable energy future.

The Research and Youth Engagement Assistant will support the research and development process for Student Energy’s ongoing research projects, including conducting literature reviews, community engagement, youth interviews, partner outreach, report writing, and presentations of findings. The role is available at an Assistant or Coordinator level depending on level of experience. ‘Assistant’ positions are shorter term full time or part-time roles designed for students or new graduates seeking to build experience. ‘Coordinator’ positions are designed for candidates with existing professional experience relevant to the role, and/or equivalent knowledge and experience of a university or college degree.

About the Research Project

Student Energy is currently leading a research project entitled “Addressing Youth Green Skills Gaps for Canada’s Net Zero Economy” , which identifies obstacles and opportunities for young people to participate in the clean energy transition, and the critical skills that will be required in the clean energy system of the future. Findings from this research will be published alongside Action Toolkits which engage youth and relevant stakeholders. A strong interest and demonstrated knowledge of climate and energy issues in Canada and national or international net-zero or decarbonization policies is necessary for the role.

Goals:

1. Conduct research on young people’s ability to access jobs that directly or indirectly contribute to achieving Canada’s climate plans and emissions reductions targets, by hearing from young people around the country.
2. Develop and disseminate toolkits that build awareness among young people about the opportunities to work on climate and clean energy in diverse sectors.
3. Provide recommendations to public and private sectors on recruitment, retention, and workforce development programs and policies that address the real and perceived barriers for young people accessing green jobs.

While this is the primary research project the Assistant or Coordinator will focus on, Student Energy has numerous concurrent research and other youth-focused projects that the role will interface with, including the ‘Net Zero in our Neighbourhood’ youth engagement research project, and other internationally focused projects.