About the Role
AARES* is seeking an Intermediate Wetland Ecologist to join our team at our Sunalta, Calgary office. Working under the general direction of experienced leads or senior management, this position will be responsible for participating in fish and wildlife related project field and office work and will provide an opportunity for the right candidates to learn much and grow professionally and personally. We are currently searching for an intermediate wetlands and vegetation ecologist to join our team. The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic, practical and personable individual that enjoys working in a dynamic and challenging environment.
Job Responsibilities:
• Scoping, designing and conducting appropriate vegetation and wetlands assessments, according to project-specific details and applicable regulatory requirements;
• Liaising with Project managers, senior vegetation specialists, regulators, and clients regarding vegetation and wetlands issues and proposed developments;
• Identifying, classifying and delineating wetlands according to applicable documents and directives published under the Alberta Wetland Policy;
• Conducting vegetation assessments, including pre-construction inventories for vegetation of concern (e.g., rare plants, rare ecological communities, weeds) and wetlands, post-construction monitoring, and ongoing wetlands monitoring programs;
• Preparing and submitting technical reports and contributing to regulatory applications;
• Preparing mitigation recommendations for environmental features of concern;
• Working in a team setting with other biologists (both experienced and new);
• Working in remote locations for up to 3 weeks at a time, sometimes on short notice; and,
• Mentorship and team-building.
The ability to participate in other discipline field programs, contribute to proposals, or initiate business development is considered an asset.
Requirements
PREFERENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:
· A University Degree in biological sciences (biology, ecology, botany) from a recognized institution
· A designation with a professional association such as the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB), or qualification for such designation
· A minimum 3 years' experience conducting vegetation and wetlands surveys; experience as an environmental consultant in western Canada is preferred
· A strong background in vascular plant identification and taxonomy, including willows, grasses, sedges and rushes
· A thorough understanding of applicable federal and provincial regulations and policies, including the Wildlife Act, Species at Risk Act, Water Act, and the Alberta Wetland Policy and its continued implementation
· Experience designing and conducting vegetation and wetlands field assessments, preparing regulatory applications and associated reporting (e.g., WAIFs, WAIRs), and writing technical reports (including mitigations)
· Experience leading surveys for vegetation of concern, including rare plants, rare ecological communities, and weeds
· A familiarity with driving 4X4 trucks, towing, and using field equipment such as ATVs, ARGOs, and GPS
· Ability to record, interpret and manage data and write well technically
· The ability to work collaboratively with a variety of other professionals in a small organization
· A passion for working outdoors in all weather conditions
Offers of employment for safety-sensitive positions involving fieldwork are contingent upon candidates being able to perform key physical tasks of the job as described in the job posting and interview. This may include the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions (e.g., remote or isolated areas, active construction sites, established facilities), perform heavy lifting, hiking long distances through challenging terrain, working alone, and in inclement weather (within safe and reasonable limits). Successful candidates will also be required to meet client requirements regarding drug and alcohol testing.
HOW TO APPLY:
We offer a competitive wage, benefits and vacation packages. Please submit cover letter and resume to vlukasik@aares.ca. Only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
About the Company
AAR Environmental Services (a division of Applied Aquatic Research Ltd.) is a Canadian full-service environmental consulting company based in Calgary, Alberta. Our talented teams provide a diverse suite of services, including aquatic and terrestrial biology, agronomy, hydrology, project management, archaeology, and environmental planning. We are always on the lookout for enthusiastic candidates who have a positive attitude, enjoy working in a dynamic and challenging team environment, and are interested in developing a professional career in the environmental sector.