This internship opportunity is presented as part of the “Digital Skills for Youth” program coordinated by the Independent Media Arts Alliance and funded by the Department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.

This is an opportunity for under-employed or unemployed Canadian youth (15 – 30 years old) to learn web app development, geospatial, and project management skills.

Windsor Hackforge is looking to fill the role of Web App Developer for a short-term contract. In this position, you’ll maintain and enhance WindsorEssexCycling.ca — a cyclist-focused routing tool that uses open data to provide bike-friendly directions across Windsor and Essex County. The application, built with Java and React, offers turn-by-turn navigation and supports trips with multiple destinations.

You’ll work closely with experienced developers and community contributors, gaining hands-on experience with:

  • OpenStreetMap and other open-source geospatial tools like GraphHopper or OSRM
  • Routing engines
  • UI/UX best practices
  • Agile development workflows, version control, and code reviews
  • Engaging with real community feedback to improve a public-facing application

This project provides a real-world opportunity to contribute to an open-source tool that promotes sustainable transportation and community health.

Our ideal candidate will have recent training in web development, software engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with Java, React, and Git is preferred, but a strong willingness to learn and adapt is equally valued. Hackforge supports learning through mentorship, self-guided exploration, and collaborative problem-solving

The position is hybrid and flexible, with most work done remotely. Occasional in-person meetings at Hackforge’s Downtown Windsor office are required.

This internship offers meaningful mentorship, portfolio-quality experience, and networking with local professionals and community advocates in technology and active transportation.

This internship is a chance to build real-world experience across the entire software development lifecycle — from project scoping to deployment — while contributing to a meaningful, community-driven initiative.

Required Competencies: English (both written and spoken), JavaScript, React.js, DNS, HTTP, Git, HTML, CSS

Desired Experience: Training or experience as a software developer, communicator or project manager in the software industry. This is an entry level position, so training alone is acceptable. 

Contract Length: 25 weeks (late September 2025 to late March, 2026)

Hours: 20/week, flexible

Pay: $30/hour

Location: Downtown Windsor, Ontario, Canada (most work can be done remote, but some in-person time is ideal)

Educational Background: be enrolled in or have completed education in computer science, web development, app development, or a related field.

Funding Requirements:

  • Be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of the internship;
  • Be legally entitled to work in Canada (either a citizen, permanent resident or person with refugee status – work permits are not eligible);
  • Self-identify as underemployed (i.e. employed below their level of education, holding part-time employment, or in emerging fields with few jobs)

Interviews will be held on September 22nd and 23rd, and will include a practical component.

⭐Please apply through our online application form by Tuesday, September 16, 2025.⭐

Windsor Hackforge’s hiring practices reflect the diverse communities we serve. As such, we strongly encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and abilities to apply.