Junior Biologist

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA); Vaughan; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A conservation organization is seeking a Junior Biologist in Vaughan, Ontario. The role involves conducting bat surveys and supporting environmental monitoring programs. Candidates should have a degree in a relevant field and over 3 years of experience in bat monitoring. Proficiency in specialized software and strong field skills are essential. This position offers a short-term contract with a competitive hourly rate, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Comprehensive compensation and benefits program

Defined Benefit Pension Plan

Flexible work arrangements

Continuous learning opportunities

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in taxa specific surveys.
• Experience with bat inventories and monitoring.
• Ability to analyze local bat calls through spectrogram.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bat data collection according to protocols.
• Lead team scheduling based on project priorities.
• Perform quality assurance on collected data.

Skills

Ability to identify all species of local bats

Strong navigational skills

Field skills for fauna identification

Knowledge of environmental inventory protocols

Proficiency in MS Office suite

Education

Post-secondary diploma or degree in Biology, Ecology, or related field

Tools

Kaleidoscope

SonoBat

SQL

GIS ArcMap

Job description

Job Description

Posted Monday, February 9, 2026 at 5:00 AM | Expires Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 4:59 AM

Current Rate of Pay: Min = $ 32.69 /hr, Max = $37.88/hr

Employment type: Short-Term Contract

Duration of employment: March 2026 to March 2027

Hours of work: 35 hrs/week

Division: Development and Engineering Services

Business unit: Watershed Planning and Ecosystem Science

Travel: 30%

Flexible Work Arrangements: Yes

Existing Vacancy: Yes

About TRCA:

With more than 60 years of experience, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is one of 36 Conservation Authorities in Ontario, created to safeguard and enhance the health and well-being of watershed communities through the protection and restoration of the natural environment and the ecological services the environment provides.

Please submit your resume and cover letter in one file (PDF or Word) and upload using only the ‘Resume’ feature within the application prior to 11:59 pm on February 16, 2026.

How you will contribute as part of the TRCA team:

The Junior Biologist is responsible for conducting bat surveys/monitoring in support of TRCA’s environmental monitoring programs and various internal /external projects and initiatives.

Major Responsibilities:

• Collect bat data according to standardized protocols and ensure that data is scientifically defensible to guarantee the provision of high-quality information to TRCA and its partners
• Assist in leading the team by creating and communicating schedules based on priorities and making adjustments as needed
• Assist with performing quality assurance and control on data collected and inputs data into corporate databases (e.g., SQL and GIS ArcMap) to provide TRCA with complete and accurate datasets.
• Use specialized computer software in the analysis of acoustic data (e.g., Kaleidoscope, SonoBat, etc.)
• Prepare data summaries and technical memos/reports with interpretation of data

What will you need to succeed:

Education (degree/diploma/certifications)

• Post-secondary diploma or degree in Biology, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Sciences or a related field

Experience

• 3+ years of demonstrated experience leading taxa specific surveys according to standardized protocols
• Accurate identification and interpretation of local bat calls (by spectrogram analysis)
• Junior biologist – 3+ years’ experience conducting bat inventories/monitoring according to commonly used protocols for southern ON.

Knowledge/Skill/Ability - Competencies

• Ability to identify all species of local bats (by spectrogram) and demonstrated knowledge of bat acoustic analysis with specialized computer software.
• Strong navigational skills to efficiently move through survey areas including during night time conditions
• Established field skills to identify and interpret fauna species and their required habitat needs.
• Sound knowledge of the biology, ecology and natural history of the fauna of Ontario.
• Sound knowledge of environmental inventory and monitoring data collection protocols and related equipment.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite including online software such as MS teams, and SharePoint

What TRCA has to offer you:

As part of a progressive team you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact to preserving and protecting nature, while maintaining a balance between the natural environment and built environment. Working with experts within our field, you will join a team of colleagues that are committed to TRCA’s core values by demonstrating the following behaviours; integrity, collaboration, accountability, respect, and excellence (icare).

You will be part of a diverse and inclusive organization that:

• Makes a positive difference in the communities we serve.
• Fosters high performance and collaborative teams.
• Provides continuous learning and development opportunities.
• Offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits program (including Defined Benefit Pension Plan – OMERS/OTPP).
• Pregnancy & Parental Leave Top-Up Program.
• Provides flexible work arrangements in accordance with organizational policy and operational requirements; however, they are not guaranteed and are subject to approval.
• Offers potential for career growth and advancement.

While the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) thanks all applicants for their interest, only those under consideration will be contacted for interviews. Please be advised that successful incumbent(s) may be required to undergo a vulnerable sector screening and/or driver’s abstract check as a part of the final step in the hiring process.

TRCA is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Our goal is to attract, develop and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, allowing us to benefit from a wide variety of experiences and perspectives. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, and TRCA Policies, accommodation will be provided at any point throughout the hiring process, provided the candidate makes their accommodation needs known to the TRCA. We welcome applications from all qualified persons.

Personal information you provide through the TRCA recruitment, selection, and onboarding process is collected under the authority of the Conservation Authorities Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. C.27. Collection of this personal information is necessary for the proper administration of this recruitment process for employment and volunteer positions with TRCA. Personal information is protected from disclosure pursuant to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Any questions regarding this collection activity should be directed to the Manager of Records and Information, 5 Shoreham Drive, Toronto, ON, M3N 1S4, [phone].