Senior Aquatic Scientist

Government of Northwest Territories; Yellowknife; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational institution in Canada is seeking a Senior Aquatic Scientist to lead vital research on freshwater ecosystems. The role involves collaborating with Indigenous communities, managing research projects, and providing expert advice on aquatic science. The ideal candidate holds a Master’s in a relevant field and has extensive experience in environmental monitoring and research leadership. This position is based in Yellowknife, NT and offers the opportunity to make impactful contributions to climate change research.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in aquatic science, water quality, and climate change impacts.
• Proven experience in research leadership, including team supervision and budget oversight.
• Familiarity with the NWT's unique environmental and cultural context is a strong asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead field-based research on freshwater systems across the NWT.
• Develop and manage long-term strategic and operational aquatic research plans.
• Build strong partnerships with Indigenous communities, academic institutions, and funding agencies.

Skills

Aquatic science knowledge

Field data collection skills

Project management skills

Communication skills

Relationship-building abilities

Education

Master of Science degree in Biology, Chemistry, or Geography

Job description

Aurora College's mission is to demonstrate leadership in the delivery of relevant and meaningful education and research rooted in strong connections to Northern land, tradition, community and people.

Job Information

The Senior Aquatic Scientist leads aquatic research initiatives at the North Slave Research Centre, part of the Aurora Research Institute (ARI). This position provides expert scientific and strategic leadership in freshwater ecosystems, climate change impacts, and environmental monitoring across the Northwest Territories (NWT).

This role supports critical environmental research and collaborates with northern communities, Indigenous governments, academic institutions, and government agencies to ensure that aquatic research aligns with territorial priorities and community needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead field-based research on freshwater systems across the NWT.
• Develop and manage long-term strategic and operational aquatic research plans.
• Provide expert advice on aquatic science to governments, regulators, and project stakeholders.
• Build strong partnerships with Indigenous communities, academic institutions, and funding agencies.
• Secure research funding and manage a significant operating budget.
• Supervise staff, students, and research teams, and ensure safe field operations.
• Represent ARI and Aurora College on local, national, and international research committees.

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong foundation in aquatic science, water quality, and climate change impacts.
• Skilled in field data collection, environmental monitoring, and project management.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building abilities.
• Proven experience in research leadership, including team supervision and budget oversight.
• Ability to work collaboratively with Indigenous and northern communities.
• Familiarity with the NWT’s unique environmental and cultural context is a strong asset.
• To be successful in this role, typically the qualifications would be attained by: A Master of Science degree in Biology, Chemistry, or Geography with a focus in the aquatic sciences supplemented by environmental geoscience or related sub-disciplines, and five (5) years of relevant experience including one (1) year of supervisory or team lead experience.

GNWT Inquiries

Inquiries Only:

Department of Finance
Government of the Northwest Territories
YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE 5TH FLOOR
BOX 1320 YELLOWKNIFE NT X1A 2L9
Tel [phone] Extension 14106
Fax [phone]
[e-mail]

Note: If you do not receive electronic notification confirming receipt of your application, please follow up via telephone.