Senior Marine Biologist / Regulatory Specialist

EnviroCareers; Victoria, Vancouver; Hybrid; CAD 100,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized environmental consultancy in British Columbia seeks a Senior Marine Biologist/Regulatory Specialist. This dynamic role focuses on leading permitting processes, ensuring technical quality across projects, and mentoring junior team members. Ideal candidates possess extensive regulatory expertise, strong communication skills, and a passion for marine science. A competitive salary and benefits package are offered, along with the opportunity to contribute to meaningful marine projects in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

100% employer-paid health benefits

Overtime pay (x1.5 - x2)

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in marine biology and regulatory permitting.
• Expert knowledge of federal regulators (DFO, Transport Canada).
• Demonstrated ability to write accurate technical documents.

Responsibilities

• Lead permitting efforts and prepare federal/territorial applications.
• Conduct quality assurance reviews for technical documents.
• Mentor junior staff and enhance team capability.

Skills

Critical Thinking

Problem-Solving

Mentorship

Regulatory Expertise

Interpersonal Communication

Project Coordination

Education

Degree in Marine Biology

RPBio designation (or eligible within 90 days)

Tools

ArcGIS

Statistical Analysis (R)

Job description

My client is a specialized environmental consultancy based in British Columbia, dedicated exclusively to marine science and regulatory consulting. With offices in Vancouver and Victoria, they are a tight-knit team of applied marine scientists committed to advancing responsible coastal and Arctic development through science-based solutions, Indigenous collaboration, and regulatory excellence.

This boutique firm brings a rare blend of regulatory expertise, academic insight, and field experience, allowing them to deliver high-quality work that goes beyond compliance. Whether it’s supporting community-driven projects in Nunavut, conducting existing condition surveys in BC’s coastal waters, or navigating complex federal permitting processes, this team is known for punching above their weight in the marine sector.

What sets them apart? A focus on collaboration, critical thinking, and mentorship. Employees are valued for their curiosity, problem-solving ability, and integrity. The work is dynamic, the projects are meaningful, and the culture is grounded in respect, growth, and passion for the marine environment.

Are you a regulatory-savvy marine biologist with a sharp eye for detail, a passion for mentoring, and a knack for navigating complex permitting landscapes? This opportunity is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, small-business environment where performance, accountability, and critical thinking matter more than job titles.

As a Senior Marine Biologist / Regulatory Specialist, you will directly contribute to regulatory excellence, project success, and team development. Your core mandate will be to lead permitting efforts, mentor junior staff, and ensure technical quality across diverse marine infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on both coastal BC and Nunavut.

Remote / WFH / Hybrid:Hyrbid, Vancouver or Victoria, BC

Travel/Fieldwork:20% - 40% (BC, NU)

Salary:$100k - $115k , plus 100% employer paid health benefits, x1.5 - x2 overtime (The final salary will reflect the qualifications, relevant experience, expertise, and professional designations that each candidate brings to the role. Individuals who offer additional strengths or bring exceptional value to the team will be considered for compensation beyond the stated range, as our client recognizes and rewards unique contributions.)

Key Responsibilities:
Permitting & Regulatory Leadership:

• Lead the preparation and submission of federal and territorial permit applications (e.g., DFO RFRs/Authorizations, Transport Canada, Environment Canada, NIRB).
• Anticipate project permitting needs and deliver accurate, timely regulatory submissions aligned with client and regulator expectations.
• Monitor changing regulatory frameworks and ensure internal processes remain compliant and up to date.

Quality Control & Technical Oversight:

• Review and refine technical deliverables to ensure project-specific accuracy and eliminate cut-paste errors or outdated references.
• Provide senior-level quality assurance review (QAR) for regulatory documents and ensure consistency across submissions.
• Implement or oversee Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMPs) and Environmental Monitoring Compliance Programs (EnMCPs).

Project Execution & Management:

• Coordinate and lead multi-disciplinary teams on marine environmental projects across BC and Nunavut.
• Oversee existing conditions surveys, desktop assessments, field logistics, and data integration.
• Participate in and support Arctic fieldwork, where appropriate based on seniority and skillset.

Mentorship & Collaboration:

• Act as the “bridge” between senior leadership and junior staff, offering mentorship and guidance to elevate team capability.
• Foster knowledge sharing, autonomy, and proactive thinking across all team levels.

Client Engagement & Business Development:

• Build and maintain strong client relationships through clear communication, project delivery, and trust.
• Seek out new project opportunities and contribute to proposal writing and strategic business development.

Required Experience & Skills:

• 10+ years of progressive experience in marine biology, with direct regulatory permitting in BC and/or Nunavut.
• Expert understanding of key federal regulators (DFO, Transport Canada, Environment Canada) and coastal infrastructure permitting processes.
• Demonstrated ability to write and review technical documents with accuracy and precision.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills—self-motivated, resourceful, and solutions-oriented.
• Proven ability to mentor junior staff and support a culture of continuous learning.
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills, with a performance-first mindset.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills—comfortable leading meetings and client conversations.
• Degree in marine biology or a related field; RPBio designation (or eligible within 90 days).
• ArcGIS & Statistical Analysis (R).

Assets:

• Experience with Nunavut permitting processes and regulatory bodies (e.g., NIRB).
• Familiarity with Arctic or remote fieldwork programs.
• Hands-on experience with marine survey tools (e.g., ROVs, side scan sonar, multibeam).
• SVOP certification or vessel handling experience.
• Experience working in or managing small-team, high-responsibility consulting environments.

If you're driven, detail-oriented, and ready to grow your regulatory expertise in a high-performing marine science team—apply now. We’re not just looking for a resume—we’re looking for curiosity, critical thinking, and commitment.

To Apply:

To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume describing your experience and salary expectations in confidence via our careers site to see all open positions and apply visit our website:
www.EnviroCareers.ca
or
via email:[e-mail]. Please indicate “Senior Marine Biologist” in your subject line.