Senior Ecologist

WEST Inc; Ontario; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in environmental consulting is seeking a Senior Ecologist to manage projects across Ontario and Canada. The role involves project management, ecological assessments, and business development, requiring extensive experience in renewable energy projects and strong communication skills. Successful candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or environmental sciences and at least 10 years of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of relevant experience in ecological studies.
• Extensive experience with renewable energy projects.
• Proficiency in project management, budgeting, and proposal writing.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage Ontario and Canadian projects.
• Perform project management activities including developing budgets.
• Conduct ecological assessments and fieldwork as needed.

Skills

Project Management

Ecological Study Design

Environmental Consulting

Business Development

Time Management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or environmental sciences

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS software (ArcGIS/QGIS)

Job description

The Senior Ecologist will be primarily responsible for coordinating and managing our Ontario projects, as well as other Canadian projects. The ideal candidate will have experience and expertise in ecological study design, project management, environmental consulting, and business development.

Primary duties may include:

1. Marketing WEST and performing business development activities (e.g., social events with prospective and existing clients).
2. Attending conferences, trade shows, and client meetings.
3. Project management activities including developing budgets and writing proposals.
4. Coordinating and/or assisting with field activities for other staff on multiple projects, including scheduling fieldwork, providing datasheets and survey methodology, coordinating housing, vehicles, and supplies, answering questions promptly, and managing datasheets.
5. Managing environmental technical aspects of various planning projects and teams.
6. Coordinating with local, provincial, and federal agencies, First Nations, and the public in support of client projects.
7. Performing fieldwork as needed.
8. Providing training and support to field technicians.
9. Assessing ecological effects, interpreting study results, and applying findings considering biological relevance.
10. Writing and reviewing reports, ensuring they meet client formats and deadlines, and maintaining data quality assurance.
11. Promoting WEST’s core values of quality service and teamwork while fostering a positive work environment.
12. Working independently or in small teams, communicating effectively and professionally with clients and colleagues.

Job Requirements:

• Legally authorized to work in Canada.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in biological sciences, environmental sciences, or related fields, with at least 10 years of relevant experience.
• Extensive experience with renewable energy projects, including wind, solar, and batteries.
• Valid driver’s license with no restrictions and ability to rent vehicles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (advanced Word and Excel) and GIS software (ArcGIS/QGIS).
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under time constraints, meet deadlines, with high accountability and minimal supervision.
• Experience in avian and bat surveys, statistical analysis, wetland delineations, plant identification, or other ecological areas.
• At least two years of project management experience, including budgeting and proposal writing, with a proven track record of positive stakeholder relationships.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.

Other Desired Skills:

• Experience with projects in other provinces.
• Consulting experience with local regulators.
• Leading ecological surveys according to Survey Protocols.
• Experience with construction or environmental monitoring.
• Environmental consulting in mining, linear development, oil and gas, or government projects.

Successful candidates must provide a driver’s abstract meeting WEST’s criteria and pass drug and alcohol testing as per WEST and client standards. Candidates must adhere to all health and safety protocols during employment.

WEST is an equal opportunity employer, welcoming applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability, marital or family status, or other protected characteristics.