Avian Biologists for Waterfowl Monitoring

Owl Moon Environmental Inc.; Fort McMurray; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental organization is seeking experienced avian biologists to conduct waterfowl monitoring in Fort McMurray, Alberta. This field-based position runs from April 1 to October 31, 2026, with applicants required to have a Degree in Biology or Environmental Science. Candidates must be able to identify various bird species and possess a valid Driver’s License. The role requires working under difficult field conditions while maintaining safety and communication standards. Competitive wages and sick leave are offered.

Benefits

Competitive wage

40 hours of sick leave

Qualifications

• Experience identifying waterfowl, wading birds, and landbirds.
• Possession of a valid Class 5 Driver’s License.
• Ability to tolerate long field days.

Responsibilities

• Conduct waterfowl monitoring in the oil sands region.
• Record birds from land-based and boat monitoring locations.
• Adhere to safety and industrial site requirements.

Skills

Identifying waterfowl

Communication skills

Time management

Working in difficult field conditions

Education

Degree or Diploma in Biology or Environmental Science

Job description

Overview

Owl Moon Environmental Inc. (OMEI; www.owlmoon.ca) is seeking highly motivated and experienced avian biologists to conduct waterfowl monitoring in the oil sands region near Fort McMurray, Alberta. This field-based position extends from April 1 to October 31 2026 (an early May start date may be arranged for university students completing their studies in April 2026).

Responsibilities

Biologists will work independently or in a small team recording birds from land-based monitoring locations and by boat within an industrial mine. Biologists will adhere to OMEI safety and industrial site requirements, including government agency and client directives relating to pandemics. We will provide safety training courses (e.g., First Aid, OSSA Common Safety Orientation, Bear Awareness).

Monitoring will require 11-hour days, in a 6 days on/6 days off shift schedule (under an Alberta Hours of Work Averaging Agreement). This position is located in Fort McMurray. Accommodations would be the responsibility of the successful applicants.

Qualifications

Successful candidates would have a Degree or Diploma in Biology or Environmental Science (or be completing their studies in April 2026), or equivalent experience. Experience identifying waterfowl, wading birds, and landbirds is required. Successful candidates must possess a valid Class 5 Driver’s License or equivalent, and be able to provide a clean driving record as demonstrated by a driver’s abstract and a 3-year documented vehicle insurance history from an insurance agency or equivalent insurance history document that qualifies for coverage under OMEI’s vehicle insurance policy. Experience driving a four-wheel drive vehicle under difficult off-road muddy and sandy conditions is also required. Candidates must pass an industrial site pre-access Alcohol & Drug test at the start of employment.

Qualifications include tolerating long field days and sometimes difficult field conditions while maintaining a healthy team atmosphere. Candidates must also demonstrate attention to detail in data recording and excellent time management and communication skills. We are providing a competitive wage, and sick leave of 40 hours (equivalent to 5, 8-hour workdays) throughout employment.

Application Process

To apply or receive further information, please contact Rhonda Hanrahan ([e-mail]).

Applications must include:

• A cover letter
• Resume
• The name and contact information of three persons as references

Applications will be received until all positions are filled, but no later than March 31 2026. The entire application process should take approximately 2-3 weeks. Qualified applicants will participate in up to 2 interviews; then, the outcome will be made and communicated with the applicant.

We thank all who apply; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.