Project Specialist (Independent Contractor) - Eastern Ontario Rail Trail Loop (EORTL)
- Posted By:
- Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization (RTO11)
- Date posted:
- 16 Jul 2026
- Salary range:
- TBA
- Closing date:
- Friday, August 7, 2026
- Location:
- Ontario’s Highlands Region (Remote, plus travel within region required)
How To Apply
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a brief proposal that includes:
- experience executing similar projects
- familiarity with the region and the EORTL project
- compensation expectations, including hourly rate
Proposals may be submitted to theloop@ohto.ca. Only successful candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We thank all applicants for their interest in the position.
Application Deadline: Friday, August 7, 2026 at 4:00 PM EST.
Company Vision
Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO), in collaboration with the Eastern Ontario Rail Trail Loop (EORTL) Project Partnership, is seeking an experienced and highly collaborative Project Specialist (Independent Contractor) to lead the coordination and implementation of the EORTL tourism product and destination development initiative.
This role will assume key project coordination responsibilities currently led by OHTO, supporting a multi-partner initiative focused on developing a 320-kilometre, export-ready signature cycling experience by 2030.
The Project Specialist will play a critical leadership role in advancing the EORTL 5-Year Roadmap, aligning partner investments and priorities, and establishing a sustainable model for partnership growth and project delivery.
Position Overview
This role is central to transitioning the EORTL from planning to execution and supports the Partnership’s 2030 vision to achieve ongoing coordinated sustainable investment, growing the partnership, and positioning the Loop as one of Canada’s premier cycling tourism experiences.
The Project Specialist will report to the Director of Industry Development, Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO), and to the Eastern Ontario Rail Trail Loop Project Partnership (collectively). This role operates within a shared governance model, requiring close collaboration with municipal, regional, and industry partners.
Key Objectives
- Coordinate and deliver the EORTL Partnership Workplan (2026–2027)
- Advance implementation of the EORTL 5-Year Roadmap, Community Engagement Plan, and Marketing & Communications Needs Assessment
- Strengthen the partnership through active recruitment of new municipal partners
- Establish a sustainable, partner-funded project delivery model
- Increase visibility and positioning of the Loop through funding, recognition, and awards
Qualifications & Experience
- Proven experience in multi-stakeholder project management and/or partnership or consortium-led initiatives
- Experience in cycling tourism, trail development, or destination product development
- Strong facilitation and relationship management skills
- Experience managing complex, multi-jurisdictional projects
- Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, workplans, and reporting
- Grant writing and funding program experience
- Familiarity with Ontario municipal structures
Contract Terms
Contract term: September 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027 with possible option to renew
Contract extension is contingent on:
- Contractor performance review and ability to meet KPIs
- Approval of annual financial contribution from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming (April 1, 2027)
- Available financial contributions from project partners
Learn more about this role, including its responsibilities, deliverables and key performance indicators, here.