Intermediate Ecologist

WSP; Northwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consulting firm in Canada seeks a skilled professional to lead ecological assessments focused on fish habitats. The role requires expertise in aquatic ecology, strong field skills, and collaboration with clients and regulatory agencies. Ideal candidates will have a relevant degree and 5+ years of experience. This position offers competitive pay, flexible work options, and a culture prioritizing health, safety, and collaboration.

Benefits

Flexible work options

Comprehensive employee-focused benefits

Virtual healthcare and wellness platform

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in environmental consulting or applied ecology.
• Strong field skills in fish and fish habitat.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support fish habitat field programs including aquatic habitat inventories.
• Compile, analyze, and interpret ecological data for impact assessments.
• Prepare reports for environmental approvals and multidisciplinary documentation.

Skills

Environmental consulting

Fish habitat assessment

Ecological data analysis

Communication skills

Fieldwork

Education

Degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science

Job description

The Opportunity

Are you ready to take the next step in your environmental career? Do you thrive in the field, bring fresh perspective, and want to grow your impact in a supportive, science-driven environment? Join our collaborative ecology team where your work directly contributes to protecting biodiversity and shaping sustainable development across Ontario. You’ll work on meaningful and diverse projects, enhance your field skills, and contribute to real-world conservation outcomes—all while being supported by a team that values your growth and ideas.

Why choose WSP?

• We value and are committed to upholding a culture of inclusion and belonging
• Our Flexible Work Policy – we recognize the importance of balance in our lives and encourage you to prioritize the balance in yours. We will support you on and off the job so you can be fully present in both your work and home lives.
• A Canadian success story – we're proud to wear the red and white of this beautiful country and show the world what Canada has to offer.
• Enhance the world around you – from the environment to the highways, to the buildings and the terrain, WSP is the fabric of Canada.
• Outstanding career opportunities – we're growing and pushing ourselves every day to be greater than yesterday – we're open to your ideas and trying new things.
• A phenomenal collaborative culture and a workforce filled with genuinely good people who are doing humbly important work. Come find out for yourself what it's like to be a part of our journey.

We offer attractive pay, flexible work options, a great corporate culture, comprehensive and employee-focused benefits including virtual healthcare and a wellness platform as well as great savings programs, and a clear vision for the future.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and support fish and fish habitat field programs including detailed aquatic habitat inventories using acceptable protocols (i.e., MTO Fish Guide, OSAP); fish community sampling using various capture and handling methods (e.g., backpack electrofishing, seine net, etc.) and identification; targeted Species at Risk habitat assessments, screenings and documentation; spawning assessments for a variety of Ontario freshwater species; benthic invertebrate, water and sediment quality assessments following OBBN, CABIN or EEM methodology; passive freshwater mussel assessments, and potential mussel relocations following DFO and MNR guidelines
• Compile, analyze, and interpret ecological data to inform impact assessments and mitigation strategies
• Prepare clear, accurate reports and contribute to environmental approvals (e.g., DFO Requests for Review, FAA, ESA authorizations), multidisciplinary project documentation, and proposals
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to a culture of learning and safety
• Engage with clients, Indigenous communities, and regulatory agencies
• Collaborate with colleagues across departments and regions
• Take on other duties as assigned – every day is different!

What You’ll Bring

• 5 or more years ofof experience in environmental consulting or applied ecology
• Degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science or a related field, with a strong background in aquatic ecology
• Strong field skills in fish and fish habitat; other discipline field skills a plus
• Certification in fish identification and electrofishing, and ATV and Pleasure Craft Boat Operators training are assets
• Familiarity with Ontario’s environmental legislation and permitting processes
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Valid Ontario driver’s license and access to a vehicle
• Willingness to work outdoors, sometimes in remote locations, for extended periods, and outside standard hours
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, even under tight deadlines
• Commitment to health and safety
• Curiosity, initiative, and a desire to make a difference in environmental consulting