Principal Socio-economic & Land Use specialist

WSP Canada; Canada; On-site; CAD 141,000 - 173,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy in Canada seeks a Principal Socio-economic and Land Use Specialist to lead environmental assessments and engage with communities in British Columbia. The ideal candidate has over 15 years of consulting experience, predominantly in land and resource use, and excels in social science research methods. Candidates should have experience collaborating with Indigenous nations and possess a relevant degree, preferably at the graduate level. The position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for growth within a supportive organization.

Benefits

Flexible work

Collaborative culture

Opportunities for growth

Qualifications

• 15+ years of consulting experience in environmental assessments.
• Proven experience leading Land and Resource Use assessments.
• Demonstrated ability to work across multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of land and resource use assessments.
• Mentor junior staff and engage with stakeholders.
• Drive business development through proposals.

Skills

Environmental assessments consulting experience

Expertise in land and resource use

Social science research methods

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Experience with Indigenous nations

Valid Canadian Driver's License

Education

Degree in geography, economics, sociology, anthropology, or environmental management

Graduate degree preferred

Job description

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

Shape the World Around You - As a Principal Socio-economic and Land Use Specialist, you'll lead transformative environmental assessments that influence how communities grow, thrive, and connect with the land. Join our Environmental Planning & Permitting team in British Columbia and help shape the future of infrastructure, energy, and resource development across the province.

Your Impact

• Lead the delivery of land and resource use, marine use, and visual quality assessments for major environmental assessments in infrastructure, power, sustainable energy, mining, and oil and gas sectors.
• Mentor and guide junior and intermediate staff, while collaborating with senior leaders to shape the future of our social sciences practice.
• Design and implement social research programs, including secondary research, primary data collection, and fieldwork logistics.
• Engage meaningfully with Indigenous nations, regulators, and communities to ensure inclusive and informed project outcomes.
• Drive business development through proposal leadership and strategic client engagement.

The Skills That Set You Apart

• 15+ years of consulting experience in environmental assessments, with deep expertise in human environment components and a focus on land and resource use in British Columbia.
• Proven experience leading Land and Resource Use assessments, with additional experience in Visual Quality and Marine Use assessments considered an asset.
• Strong background in social science research methods, including field program design, data collection, and analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to work across multidisciplinary teams and regulatory frameworks, particularly within BC's EA process.
• Degree in geography, economics, sociology, anthropology, or environmental management; graduate degree preferred.
• Experience working with Indigenous nations, local communities, and public stakeholders in complex project environments.
• Valid Canadian Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record for business travel.

Why choose WSP?

We exist to shape communities to advance humanity. The brightest engineers, advisors, and scientists from across the globe call WSP home.

• Proudly Canadian - born and raised in Québec, we now operate in over 40 countries, including Antarctica.
• A global community of 72,000 brilliant minds - your next idea, mentor, or opportunity is always within reach.
• Limitless opportunities start here. Whether it's across the country or around the globe, we'll help you tailor your role to match your ambition-because your growth drives ours.
• Flexible work, real balance - we recognize the importance of balance in our lives and encourage you to prioritize the balance in yours.
• A phenomenal collaborative culture and a workforce filled with genuinely good people who are doing humbly important work.

Compensation

Salary range (in British Columbia): $141,300.90 - $172,701.10

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 salary range provided in this job posting may be subject to change for business purposes.

Make Your Mark with WSP

If you’re driven by purpose and impact, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career with us.