Intermediate Spatial Ecologist

WSP in Canada; Edmonton; Hybrid; CAD 124,358,707 - 182,526,489; Full time

Job summary

WSP in Canada is seeking an Intermediate Spatial Ecologist to join our Ecology team. The role blends geospatial analytics, AI, machine learning, remote sensing, and Earth observation to support environmental decision‑making.

This position is hybrid and can be located in any Canadian office, with remote work possible for the right candidate. You will analyze ecological datasets, develop Python and GIS workflows, model habitats, create visualizations, and contribute to data management and

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Ecology, Data Science, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 5–10 years of applied spatial ecology or environmental consulting experience.
• Strong GIS proficiency and programming in Python for analysis.
• Experience communicating results to diverse audiences and producing technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Analyze ecological and spatial datasets to support projects across sectors.
• Develop and execute Python and GIS workflows, including spatial modeling and map production.
• Apply ML/AI methods to ecological modeling and habitat mapping.
• Create clear data visualizations using Python and R.
• Integrate remote sensing data with field data for assessments.
• Conduct exploratory data analyses and statistical analyses in Python/R.
• Prepare technical reports with transparent methods.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and support project coordination.

Skills

Python

GIS

Data analysis

Communication

Reporting

Teamwork

Education

Master's degree in Ecology

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

QGIS

Job description

Intermediate Spatial Ecologist – WSP

We are seeking an Intermediate Spatial Ecologist with strong geospatial and analytical expertise to join our Ecology team. The successful candidate will help integrate emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, remote sensing, Earth observation, and cloud‑based geospatial analytics—with traditional ecological expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of environmental decision‑making. This position is hybrid and can be located in any of our Canadian offices, with the possibility of remote for the right candidate.

Your Impact

• Analyze ecological and spatial datasets and interpret results to support projects across multiple sectors.
• Develop, manage, and execute Python and GIS workflows, including spatial modeling, geoprocessing, automation, and map production.
• Develop and apply machine learning, AI, and advanced analytical approaches to ecological modeling, biodiversity assessment, species distribution modeling, habitat mapping, and cumulative effects analysis.
• Create clear and compelling data visualizations using Python and/or R.
• Integrate remote sensing datasets, including satellite imagery, LiDAR, UAV/drone imagery, and Earth observation products, with field‑based ecological data to support environmental assessments and monitoring programs.
• Conduct exploratory data analysis and statistical analyses using Python and/or R.
• Prepare technical reports, ensuring transparent documentation of analytical methods and results.
• Contribute to data management, QA/QC processes, and reproducible analytical workflows.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to project coordination and execution.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Ecology, Data Science, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• 5–10 years of relevant experience in applied spatial ecology or environmental consulting.
• Strong proficiency in GIS platforms such as ArcGIS Pro or QGIS, including spatial analysis and geoprocessing.
• Strong programming skills in Python for data analysis, automation, and visualization.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze ecological data and interpret results in an applied context.
• Experience preparing technical reports and communicating analytical results to diverse audiences.
• Experience working with large geospatial and ecological datasets, including remote sensing and Earth observation products.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in R for statistical analysis and ecological modeling.
• Experience with statistical modeling approaches such as resource selection functions, occupancy models, habitat suitability models, or connectivity analyses.
• Experience working with large and diverse ecological datasets, including GPS telemetry, wildlife surveys, and remote sensing data.
• Strong data management, visualization, and reproducibility practices.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Familiarity with cloud‑based geospatial platforms such as Google Earth Engine, Microsoft Planetary Computer, or equivalent environments.
• Experience developing automated workflows for biodiversity monitoring, habitat mapping, land‑cover classification, change detection, or cumulative effects assessment.
• Experience integrating AI‑assisted approaches for image analysis, acoustic monitoring, camera trap processing, species detection, or ecological forecasting.

Compensation

AB, BC, NT, NU, SK & YT: $48.10 – $63.70 per hour

MB & ON: $43.90 – $60.40 per hour

NB, NL, NS, PE & QC: $43.40 – $57.70 per hour

Disclosure: The final salary awarded 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.

EEO and Accommodation Statement

WSP welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. WSP is committed to the principles of employment equity. Only the candidates selected will be contacted. WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Please comply with our Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) policy at all times, as well as client HSE policies when working at client locations. Full details are available upon request.