Senior Ecologist

R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited; Hamilton; Hybrid; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading ecological solutions firm as a Senior Aquatic or Terrestrial Ecologist in Hamilton. You will provide leadership in project management and ecological assessments, working alongside a dedicated team to deliver high-quality environmental solutions in land development. This role offers competitive benefits, career growth opportunities, and a commitment to a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Flexible hours and hybrid work options

Competitive salary and benefits

RSP matching

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 10+ years of consulting ecology experience with leadership skills.
• Experience in the Land Development industry preferred.
• Strong project management skills, ability to meet schedules and budgets.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical guidance and leadership to junior staff.
• Manage scope, budget, and deliverables for land development projects.
• Lead aquatic fieldwork and ecological surveys across southern/central Ontario.

Skills

Project Management

Technical Writing

Client Liaison

Verbal Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Studies

Tools

ArcGIS

AutoCAD

Job description

Join us at our new Hamilton location as we expand our Land Development Ecology Team and take the lead in shaping the future of ecological solutions. We are currently seeking a dynamic Senior Aquatic or Terrestrial Ecologist (permanent, full-time) eager to advance their professional journey.

At Burnside, our Land Development Ecology Team consists of experienced environmental ecologists dedicated to helping clients navigate project challenges within the Land Development sector. As a key team member, you will report directly to the Vice President of Ecology, Land Development, collaborating with ecologists, environmental professionals, and engineers to ensure successful project delivery and team development.

Roles and Responsibilities

Aquatic Ecologist

• Provide technical guidance and leadership to junior and/or intermediate staff.
• Manage scope, budget, and deliverables for the natural environmental component of land development projects.
• Coordinate and execute Environmental/Adaptive Management Plans, including ESC strategies and water quality monitoring.
• Lead aquatic fieldwork and ecological surveys across southern/central Ontario, following established protocols.
• Apply knowledge of Species at Risk (SAR) surveys and permit submissions, notably for Redside Dace under relevant legislation.
• Stay informed on federal and provincial regulations related to projects.
• Communicate effectively and build positive relationships with federal and provincial agencies during permitting processes.
• Lead the preparation of high-quality technical reports, project reports, and proposals for environmental approvals.
• Contribute to Environmental Impact Studies, Natural Heritage Evaluations, and other assessments.
• Support and liaise with other technical specialists and project teams.
• Perform other duties as required.

Terrestrial Ecologist

• Provide guidance and leadership to junior and/or intermediate staff.
• Manage scope, budget, and deliverables for terrestrial land development projects.
• Oversee terrestrial fieldwork and ecological surveys in Ontario.
• Apply knowledge of SAR surveys and permit applications, especially for Butternut under the Endangered Species Act.
• Maintain awareness of relevant federal and provincial regulations.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with agencies like Conservation Authorities and MNRF/MECP.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports and proposals for environmental approvals.
• Assist with Environmental Impact Studies and other evaluations.
• Collaborate with project leads, ecologists, hydrogeologists, GIS specialists, engineers, and others.
• Other duties as necessary.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s Degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Studies, or related field.
• 10+ years of consulting ecology experience with leadership skills.
• Experience in the Land Development industry preferred.
• Strong project management skills, ability to meet schedules and budgets.
• Proven technical writing skills for reports and proposals.
• Excellent verbal and interpersonal skills, client liaison experience.

Additional Qualifications

• Fisheries ecology certifications and experience (e.g., Fish ID, Electrofishing).
• Experience with ESC inspections and contractor work.
• Terrestrial ecology expertise (e.g., Land Classification, Wetland Evaluation, ISA Certification).
• Knowledge of environmental legislation and policies.
• Proficiency in ArcGIS and/or AutoCAD.

Why Choose Burnside?

Join a reputable, employee-owned firm with over 50 years of experience. We value our employees, offering a supportive environment, work/life balance, competitive benefits, career growth, and a diverse, inclusive culture.

We Offer

• Collaborative culture emphasizing respect and honesty.
• Flexible hours and hybrid work options.
• Competitive salary and benefits, RSP matching, professional development, and more.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Reasonable accommodations are provided during the recruitment process.

About Us

Founded in 1970, R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited is a growing, employee-owned multidisciplinary firm with over 400 staff, working across Canada in various technical disciplines including ecology, engineering, GIS, hydrogeology, and more.