Senior Soils Scientist

WEST Inc; Calgary; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consulting firm is seeking a Senior Soil Scientist to manage soils projects across Alberta and Canada. The role requires expertise in soil study design, project management, and environmental consulting. Candidates should have significant experience in soil classification, fieldwork, and report preparation. This position involves a mix of office and fieldwork, demanding strong communication skills and the ability to work independently in challenging environments.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of relevant experience in soil science or related fields.
• Legal authorization to work in Canada required.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage soils scope for Alberta projects.
• Conduct soil classification and terrain surveys.
• Prepare various environmental reports.

Skills

Soil classification

Communication

Time management

Critical thinking

Education

Diploma or bachelor’s degree in soil science

Tools

Microsoft Office

ArcGIS

QGIS

Job description

The Senior Soil Scientist will be primarily responsible for coordinating and managing our soils scope for Alberta projects, as well as other Canadian projects. The ideal candidate will have experience in soils study design, project management, environmental consulting, and business development.

Primary duties may include :

1. Completing and directing tasks related to soils desktop and field delineations, classifications for eco-types, mitigation plan development, permitting, and restoration monitoring.
2. Conducting soil classification and terrain surveys, including field data collection, soil sampling, data interpretation, and mapping soil according to Canadian standards.
3. Ensuring soil sampling complies with protocols and work progresses efficiently, including Ground Disturbance protocols.
4. Developing and conducting Pre-Disturbance Site Assessments (PDSAs) and Interim Monitoring Site Assessments (IMSAs), directing junior and intermediate staff.
5. Preparing various reports such as Conservation & Reclamation Plans, Mitigation Plans, Environmental Protection Plans, PDSAs, Site Restoration, and Soil Management Plans.
6. Providing onsite soil expertise for construction and reclamation projects to ensure regulatory compliance.
7. Conducting onsite monitoring and audits.
8. Promoting WEST’s core values of quality client service and teamwork while maintaining a positive work environment.
9. Summarizing and entering data, completing Ground Disturbance packages, and Codes of Practice for site surveys.
10. Assisting in wetland, watercourse, and wildlife surveys as needed.

Work Conditions:

This position involves approximately 60% office work and 40% field work, primarily in snow-free conditions, with travel between Calgary and field sites. Fieldwork may involve long days in extreme weather, rural hazards, remote locations, and working with large carnivores. Candidates must be comfortable with satellite and radio communication in areas with limited cellphone service.

Communication & Independence:

Staff may work independently or in small crews, requiring effective communication and coordination with site management and supervisors.

Note:

This description provides an overview and is not exhaustive of all duties associated with the role.

Job Requirements :

• Legal authorization to work in Canada.
• Diploma or bachelor’s degree (or higher) in soil science, land reclamation, ecology, environmental sciences, or related fields, with at least 10 years of relevant experience.
• Valid driver’s license with no restrictions and ability to rent vehicles.
• Soil classification skills per Canadian standards in western Canada habitats.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (advanced Word and Excel), ArcGIS / QGIS.
• Ability to work long field days, sometimes up to 24 days, and lift up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to hike in rugged, steep terrain for extended periods.
• Capacity for independent work and positive interaction with various stakeholders.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to meet deadlines with high accountability and minimal supervision.
• High initiative, critical thinking, and adherence to protocols.
• Experience with the Ground Disturbance process from start to finish.

Other Desired Skills :

• Experience with vegetation and wetland surveys.
• Experience in construction or environmental monitoring.
• Knowledge of Alberta weeds.
• Experience in data management.
• Knowledge of wetland, watercourse, and wildlife surveys.

Successful candidates must provide a suitable driver’s abstract, pass drug and alcohol tests, and adhere to all health and safety requirements.

WEST is an equal opportunity employer, valuing diversity and inclusion in the workplace.