Field Research Technician, Mountain Hydrology (Canmore, AB)

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Saskatchewan in Canmore, Alberta, is seeking a field technician to support hydrological monitoring and research across the Canadian Rockies. The role involves independent and team-based fieldwork, equipment maintenance, data management, and training of staff and students.

The position requires travel to remote sites, operating field vehicles, and tall meteorological towers, with safety training and a valid driver’s license.

Qualifications

• BSc or higher in physical environmental sciences or engineering, specializing in hydrology or related fields.
• Experience with hydrometeorological fieldwork and data retrieval.
• QA/QC of environmental data and data management skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and organize hydrometeorological fieldwork at mountain observatories.
• Maintain field and lab equipment, vehicles, and data systems.
• Manage scientific data (QA/QC, archiving, graphing).
• Assist with reporting and communication efforts.
• Train staff and students in field techniques and safety.
• Support logistics and safety in remote mountain environments.

Skills

Fieldwork organization

Staff supervision

Equipment maintenance

Data management

Programming dataloggers

Safety in remote environments

Team communication

Education

BSc in physical environmental sciences

Engineering specialization in hydrology

Tools

Campbell Scientific

ATVs & snowmobiles

4x4 vehicles

Job description

Global Water Futures Observatories (GWFO) is a national freshwater research facility led by the University of Saskatchewan and supported by the Canada Foundation for Innovation. Through a Canada-wide network of observation sites, field equipment, and laboratories, GWFO advances research on water, climate, ecosystems, and environmental change to help safeguard Canada's water resources.

Primary Purpose:

To support hydrological monitoring and research activities within GWFO, focusing on fieldwork, data management, equipment maintenance, and training.

Nature of Work:

Reporting to the Director of GWFO, this position supports hydrological monitoring and research activities at mountain observatory sites across the Canadian Rockies. Based in Canmore, the incumbent works independently and as part of a team of technicians conducting field measurements, maintaining scientific equipment, and managing environmental data. The role requires frequent travel to remote and mountainous field locations, often in challenging weather and terrain, and involves operating specialized vehicles and equipment. Sound judgment, problem-solving skills, and adherence to safety protocols are essential, as work is performed with limited supervision in remote environments. The position involves seasonal variations in workload, physical demands including hiking, lifting, and working at heights, and occasional overnight travel. The incumbent is expected to coordinate field activities, support training and safety initiatives, and contribute to the successful operation of long-term hydrological monitoring programs.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

• Conduct and organize hydrometeorological fieldwork.
• Maintain field and lab equipment, vehicles, and data systems.
• Manage scientific data (QA/QC, archiving, graphing).
• Assist with reporting and communication efforts.
• Train staff and students in field techniques and safety.
• Support logistics and safety in remote mountain environments.

Education:

BSc or higher in physical environmental sciences or engineering. Specialization in hydrology or related sciences.

Experience:

• Hydrometeorological fieldwork and data retrieval.
• QA/QC of environmental data.
• Programming and data management.
• Operating ATVs, snowmobiles, and 4x4 vehicles.
• Working on tall meteorological towers.
• Glacier travel, backcountry skiing, and wilderness safety.

Skills:

• Independent and team-based fieldwork organization.
• Supervising staff and students.
• Equipment maintenance (sensors, vehicles).
• Data management on Windows systems.
• Programming dataloggers (e.g., Campbell Scientific).
• Safe travel in mountainous and avalanche-prone areas.
• Effective communication with research teams.

Personal Suitability:

• Reliable, physically fit, and safety-conscious.
• Strong interpersonal skills and judgment.
• Initiative and problem-solving in field conditions.

Conditions of Work:

• Valid full driver’s license.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Comfortable with remote wilderness work.
• Mountaineering and tower climbing experience preferred.

Department:

Geography and Planning

Status:

Term 3 years with the possibility of extension

Employment Group:

Research Positions - Non-union

Full Time Equivalent (FTE):

1.0

Salary:

The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Salary Phase/Band:

Salary Band 7

Posted Date:

9/2/2026

Closing Date:

9/29/2026

Number of Openings:

1

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion:

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action . We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us for assistance.