Indigenous Housing Research & Partnerships Intern

We believe that great leaders build great cities—and that addressing housing challenges requires diverse perspectives, lived experience, and meaningful collaboration. Join our dynamic team at CivicAction and contribute to research and engagement activities that will help strengthen our understanding of Indigenous approaches to housing, community well-being, and economic development. 

Position Details 

Reports to: VP, Strategic Policy & Partnerships 

Compensation: $20.00 per hour 

Location: Flexible, preferably based in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) 

Duration: October 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027 

Employment Type: Part-Time (14 hr/per week), contract 

Level: Internship 

Website: https://www.civicaction.ca/ 

Position Purpose 

The Indigenous Housing Research & Partnerships Intern will support CivicAction’s efforts to build interest in and support for CivicAction’s Workforce Housing Affordability Playbook for Action, identifying promising practices in Indigenous-led housing affordability initiatives and their application to the successful delivery of GTHA housing affordability for middle-income workers “squeezed-out” of the region due to high unaffordability. Through research and partnership engagement, the intern will explore Indigenous-grounded solutions to the problem of housing the workers who power the GTHA region at speed and scale, as connected to community liveability and prosperity, integrating issues like procurement, construction innovation, and partnerships that unlock better outcomes. The intern will work with colleagues and partners for research activities, convening, knowledge-sharing, and partnership development. 

Key Accountabilities 

• Develop a plan and conduct topical research using multiple methods, alongside a scan of relevant cases, data, and promising practices 
• Conduct conversations/interviews with partners doing relevant work to integrate into a compelling research overview 
• Assist with stakeholder mapping and partnership development activities involving Indigenous organizations, housing providers, governments, community leaders, and industry partners 
• Support planning and coordination of meetings, roundtables, workshops, and engagement sessions 
• Assist with preparing briefing notes, presentations, summaries, and other key documents 
• Assist with communications and outreach activities related to project initiatives and partnerships 
• Contribute to recommendations, resources, and knowledge-sharing materials connected to CivicAction's housing affordability goals 
• Provide project coordination and administrative support, as required 

Qualifications and Skills 

Required Education, Certification and Experience 

• Current postsecondary student or recent graduate in Indigenous Studies, Community Development, Public Policy, Urban Planning, Social Sciences, Housing Studies, Business, Economics, Geography, Architecture, or a related field. 
• Demonstrated interest in housing, community development, partnership building, research, or civic engagement. 

Demonstrated Skills and Behaviours 

• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a flexible work environment. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and virtual collaboration tools. 
• Curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn. 
• Knowledge of Indigenous housing, community development, housing affordability, or related issues is considered an asset. 
• Lived experience, community leadership, volunteer experience, and community knowledge are valued alongside formal education and employment experience. 

About CivicAction 

CivicAction's purpose is to elevate civic engagement that builds livable, inclusive cities in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). For over two decades, we have been mobilizing leaders and changemakers to champion innovative solutions, accelerate the alignment of actions, and invest in the leadership of tomorrow. 

Our housing work brings together leaders from across sectors to advance practical solutions that improve housing affordability and strengthen communities. Through research, partnerships, convenings, and leadership development, CivicAction works to address some of the region's most pressing housing challenges. 

Our Commitment to Inclusive Recruitment

CivicAction is committed to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and ways of knowing are valued. This internship is a targeted opportunity funded through an Indigenous youth employment initiative. As a result, eligibility for this position is limited to applicants who identify as First Nations, Inuit, or Métis and meet the program's eligibility requirements.

We recognize that many people underestimate whether they meet every qualification listed in a job posting. If you are an eligible Indigenous applicant who is excited about this opportunity but do not meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. We value lived experience, community leadership, cultural knowledge, curiosity, and a willingness to learn alongside formal education and work experience.

Accommodations are available for candidates participating in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process. Please let us know if you require accommodation, and we will work with you to the best of our abilities to meet your needs.

HERE'S HOW TO APPLY 

Apply with your résumé and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in housing, community development, and partnership building by August 10, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST. 

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.