Avian Biologist

Natural Resource Solutions Inc; Southwestern Ontario; Hybrid; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A biological consulting firm is seeking an Avian Biologist to conduct breeding bird surveys and other avian assessments across Ontario. Responsibilities include detailed fieldwork, effective communication with teams, and adherence to health and safety requirements. Candidates are expected to have a relevant educational background and strong bird identification skills. The firm values a healthy work-life balance and offers competitive pay along with opportunities for career growth.

Benefits

Competitive hourly wage

Career growth opportunities

Healthy work-life balance

Qualifications

• Strong visual and auditory identification skills for Ontario breeding birds.
• Proven experience with point counts, area searches, and documenting breeding evidence.
• Experience in technical report writing and data analysis with high accuracy.
• Familiarity with ecological surveys beyond birds is preferred.
• Must hold a valid Standard First Aid and CPR Certificate.

Responsibilities

• Conduct avian surveys using applicable bird survey protocols.
• Travel to remote locations for field surveys across Ontario.
• Take well-organized and detailed field notes.
• Communicate with project managers and clients as necessary.
• Assist with other ecological field surveys and related tasks.

Skills

Bird Identification

Survey Methodologies

Data & Reporting

Additional Ecology Experience

Work Style

Safety

Software

Education

Post-secondary degree or diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Overview

Natural Resource Solutions Inc. (NRSI) is proud to provide high quality and cost-effective natural environment consulting solutions to our clients across Canada. We are a highly respected niche biological consulting firm with offices in Waterloo, Ontario and Calgary, Alberta. Our team of skilled ecologists provide expertise in the identification and management of significant and sensitive natural species and their habitats.

Why Us?

At NRSI we value our people and strive to provide a healthy work-life balance and a safe work environment. We offer a competitive hourly wage, the opportunity to work with other highly experienced staff, and career growth opportunities by promoting from within our organization.

Your Contribution to NRSI

NRSI is looking for one or more qualified and experienced Avian Biologists to join NRSI’s team. The primary focus of this position will be the completion of breeding bird surveys, as well as other avian surveys (migration, behavior, etc.) at a variety of project sites across Ontario. The biologist(s) will also assist with other field and office projects work, including other ecological field surveys. There may be other opportunities throughout the contract to lead and/or assist with other survey types if the applicant demonstrates skills in the completion of other biological surveys. The primary duties and responsibilities for this role include:

• Conducting avian surveys across Ontario using the applicable bird survey protocols and methodologies,
• Traveling to remote locations in Ontario to conduct field surveys, several multi-week trips may be required for this role,
• Taking well-organized and detailed field notes,
• Communicating frequently and as required with project managers, other field staff, and clients,
• Following all applicable Health and Safety requirements,
• Occasional assistance with other field- or office-related tasks.

Your Education

• A post-secondary degree or diploma, or high school diploma.

Key Job Requirements

Technical Biological Skills

• Bird Identification: Strong visual and auditory identification skills for Southern and Central Ontario breeding birds.
• Survey Methodologies: Proven experience with point counts, area searches, and documenting breeding evidence. Experience with OBBA or Marsh Monitoring protocols is a strong asset.
• Data & Reporting: Experience in technical report writing and data analysis, with a high degree of accuracy in field note maintenance.
• Additional Ecology Experience: Experience with ELC, herpetofauna, mammals, or insect surveys is preferred.

Field Work & Logistics

• Working Conditions: Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, navigating difficult terrain, and dealing with insects/seasonal temperatures.
• Availability: Flexible schedule required for early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Travel: Willingness to travel for multi-day trips, including camping in remote locations.
• Transportation: Valid driver’s license is required. Candidates must be over 18 (to drive rentals) and have access to a personal vehicle.

Professional and Soft Skills

• Work Style: Capable of working consistently and independently, as well as collaborating in a team.
• Safety: Must hold a valid Standard First Aid and CPR Certificate.
• Software: Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel).

Assets

• Experience operating small watercraft and/or all terrain vehicles is an asset.

Application Closing Date

Application Closing Date: March 15, 2026. Interviews will begin as suitable applicants are found.

Application Requirements

A cover letter addressed to Daniel Riley is required with all applications.

Position Start Date

Position Start Date: May 18, 2026 (an earlier start date may be considered if prospective hire is available).

Position End Date

Position End Date: August 28, 2026.

Location

Waterloo, ON. Applicants located outside of the Waterloo area will be considered, depending on experience and ability to travel for field work.

Salary

USD 23.50-26.00 per hour commensurate on experience.

Estimated number of hours per week

40 hours (May be variable outside breeding bird season from May 24 – July 10).

Vacancy Status

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Equal Opportunity Employer

NRSI is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. NRSI is also committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in our recruitment process, employment, services, programs, and activities. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact our HR Department at 519-807-0592.