Experienced Social Scientist Consultant

WSP; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 73,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy in Ontario is seeking a social scientist to conduct socio-economic research and support Indigenous engagement. This role includes conducting baseline studies, developing mitigation strategies, and leading public engagement sessions. The ideal candidate will have a graduate degree in social science, at least 5 years of relevant experience, and a strong understanding of Indigenous contexts. This position offers competitive compensation and opportunities for meaningful impact across Canada.

Benefits

Flexible work and real balance

Global community of experts

Limitless opportunities for growth

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in socio-economic research and environmental assessments.
• Familiarity with consultation and engagement tracking tools and related project documentation.
• Experience working with Indigenous Nations in Ontario.

Responsibilities

• Conduct socio-economic baseline studies.
• Lead qualitative and quantitative data collection.
• Develop socio-economic mitigation strategies.

Skills

Understanding of Indigenous cultural contexts

Experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to lead Indigenous engagement activities

Education

Graduate degree in a related social science

Tools

Consultation and engagement tracking tools

Job description

Overview

What if you could redefine what’s possible? With us, you can. You want Purpose. Growth. Opportunity. People who get it. We are the home of ambitious, passionate, and innovative world shapers. With an unmatched breadth and depth of engineering, advisory and science‑based expertise, our global minds unite to power local solutions. We are pathfinders and impact makers. We are Visioneers. We are WSP.

The Opportunity

The Opportunity

Your Impact Starts Here – Join our Social Science and Engagement team in Ontario, where you’ll support meaningful work across Canada. You’ll help shape environmental and socio‑economic outcomes, support Indigenous and public engagement, and contribute to projects that influence communities, policy, and land use.

Your Impact

• Conduct socio‑economic baseline studies, including literature reviews, qualitative analysis, and data interpretation in support of environmental impact assessments.
• Lead or support secondary research and primary qualitative and quantitative data collection, including work with Indigenous Nations, stakeholders, and the public.
• Develop socio‑economic mitigation and management strategies aligned with regulatory requirements and best practice.
• Support and deliver Indigenous and public engagement activities, including in‑person and virtual sessions, and lead events when appropriate.
• Provide insights and expertise related to the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act, the federal Impact Assessment Act, and other relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Incorporate Indigenous Knowledge into assessments while following cultural protocols, OCAP® principles, and group‑specific expectations.
• Conduct key informant interviews with Indigenous and non‑Indigenous knowledge holders.
• Prepare, contribute to, and review socio‑economic and technical reporting.
• Create engagement materials such as notices, display boards, fact sheets, digital content, and surveys.
• Maintain accurate engagement records and contribute to reporting.
• Manage project scope, schedule, budget, and quality for social science and engagement assignments.
• Support business development through proposals, marketing, and client relationship development.

The Skills That Set You Apart

• A graduate degree in a related social science or interdisciplinary field (e.g., Indigenous studies, anthropology, sociology, environmental studies, community studies, urban planning).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in socio‑economic research and environmental assessments.
• Strong understanding of Indigenous cultural, political, and historical contexts in Canada, including UNDRIP, treaties, and the Crown‑Indigenous relationship.
• Experience working with Indigenous Nations in Ontario and supporting Indigenous Knowledge and land use studies.
• Familiarity with consultation and engagement tracking tools and related project documentation.
• Demonstrated experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Understanding of land use planning, resource development, infrastructure, and social service environments.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; French or Indigenous languages are an asset.
• Ability and willingness to travel as required.

Why Choose WSP?

We exist to shape communities to advance humanity.

• Proudly Canadian – we are a Top 100 Employer in Canada for 2026.
• A global community of experts – your next idea, mentor, or opportunity is always within reach.
• Limitless opportunities – tailor your work to your ambitions while contributing to meaningful projects nationwide.
• Flexible work and real balance – we support you in prioritizing balance in your life.

Compensation

AB, BC, NT, NU, SK & YT: $80,800 – $107,000

MB & ON: $73,700 – $101,500

NB, NL, NS, PEI & QC: $73,000 – $96,900

Disclosure

Disclosure: The final salary offered for this role may vary from the above range based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs. The wage range provided in this job posting may be subject to change for business purposes.

Ready to Shape the Future?

Take the next step in your career and join us in creating meaningful, lasting impact. Apply today and help shape communities across Canada.