Water Resources Project Specialist

Thames River; London; Hybrid; CAD 54,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

OMERS pension

Vacation package

Hybrid work 50% remote

Conservation areas access

Job summary

Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is seeking a Water Resources Project Specialist to assist with flood risk tools, mapping, and climate-related initiatives. The role focuses on hydraulic/hydrologic models, GIS analyses, and supporting policy compliance for the watershed’s protection of life and property.

The position is based in London, Ontario, with a 1-year contract and potential renewal. Hybrid work policy currently allows up to 50% remote work, and a comprehensive benefits

Qualifications

• Degree from an accredited University in engineering, specializing in civil or water resources.
• Experience related to hydraulic / hydrologic models, with preference to PCSWMM, HEC-RAS, HEC-GEORAS and HEC-HMS.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (ArcGIS).
• Experience in municipal planning, natural hazard regulations/policies/procedures/guidelines, or civil engineering would be considered assets.
• Excellent communication skills to engage with diverse stakeholder groups including the community, governments and agencies at a political and staff level.
• A thorough knowledge of computers and computer software packages related to this field.
• Ability to clearly report and document project work.
• Well-honed critical thinking skills to identify needs or requests.

Responsibilities

• Assist with maintenance, upgrading, and adaption of flood risk management tools in support of flood risk mapping.
• Support flood risk mapping, natural hazard regulations/policies, and related guidelines.
• Provide technical support to the Water & Information Management Unit and other functions.
• Contribute to climate change projects, Flood Forecasting and Warning System, and Low Water Program.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to advance watershed health.

Skills

Hydraulic/hydrologic modeling

Stakeholder communication

Technical reporting

Critical thinking

Education

Engineering degree (Civil or Water Resources)

P.Eng. designation or eligible

Tools

PCSWMM

HEC-RAS

HEC-GEORAS

HEC-HMS

ArcGIS

Job description

Job Status:1-year contract with the possibility of continued employment beyond the contract term

Compensation:$39.13 to $47.62 per hour

Hours of Work:35 hours per week

Number of Positions:1 existing vacancy

Benefits:Comprehensive Group Benefits, Pension Plan (OMERS) and Vacation package;
Hybrid work policy (currently up to 50% remote);
Free access to UTRCA Conservation Areas (Fanshawe, Pittock and Wildwood);

Location:1424 Clarke Road, London

Application Closing Date: October 16, 2026

At the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA), our mission is Communities engaged in a healthy, resilient environment. We work in partnership with the 17 municipalities within the Upper Thames River watershed, whose appointed representatives bring both urban and rural perspective to our Board of Directors. Together, we shape policies and programs that reflect the needs of our communities and support the long-term health of our watershed.

We focus on five key areas:

• Protecting people and property and supporting safe development
• Providing natural spaces and recreational opportunities
• Making science-based decisions
• Empowering communities and youth.

The Upper Thames River watershed spans approximately 3,421 square kilometers and includes predominately rural landscapes, as well as the urban centers of London, Stratford, and Woodstock. We serve a diverse population of approximately 600,000 residents. Our Conservation Areas offer outdoor recreational opportunities that welcome people of all ages and backgrounds, helping to educate visitors and share conservation messages that support the health of our watershed.

In early 2027, Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities will be consolidated into 9 regional bodies overseen by the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency. Operations and service delivery remain a priority throughout this transition, and recruitment will continue to support ongoing organizational needs. Positions filled during this period are expected to continue within the future organization.

As a member of our team, you will support our mission by contributing your skills, knowledge, and experience to meaningful work. We believe diverse perspectives make us stronger and are committed to creating a collaborative, inclusive environment where people feel supported, respected, and encouraged to do their best work together.

Summary

The Water Resources Project Specialist is responsible for assisting with projects involving maintenance, upgrading, and adaption of flood risk management tools (i.e. hydraulic and hydrologic models) in support of flood risk mapping, natural hazard regulations/policies/ procedures/guidelines, and other applications within the UTRCA, to protect life and property, promote integrated resource management, and contribute to a healthy watershed ecosystem.

This position may also be responsible for assisting with a variety of projects related to climate change, the UTRCA’s Flood Forecasting and Warning System, maintenance of the UTRCA’s Water and Erosion Control Structures, the Low Water Program, and to provide technical support to other functions within the Water & Information Management Unit and the UTRCA.

Qualifications

• Degree from an accredited University in engineering, specializing in civil or water resources;
• Experience related to hydraulic / hydrologic models, with preference to experience with application of PCSWMM, HEC-RAS, HEC-GEORAS and HEC-HMS;
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (ArcGIS);
• Experience in municipal planning, natural hazard regulations/policies/procedures/guidelines, or civil engineering would be considered assets.
• Excellent communication skills to engage with diverse stakeholder groups including the community, governments and agencies at a political and staff level;
• A thorough knowledge of computers and computer software packages related to this field;
• Ability to clearly report and document project work;
• Well-honed critical thinking skills to identify needs or requests

Certifications, Memberships, Licenses

• Ontario Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation or eligible to apply within 3 years is preferred.

We are committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment that is free from discrimination and fosters belonging. We encourage and welcome applications from qualified members of the four designated groups, and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Accommodation is available and will be provided in all aspects of the hiring process as required under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation and as request by applicants. Should you require accommodation in making an application, please contact UTRCA by phone at 519-451-2800 or at the email address above.

Personal information collected in relation to the recruitment process is collected under the authority outlined in the Conservation Authorities ActR.S.O. 1990, c.C.27, s.18(1) and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. Questions about this collection of personal information should be directed to: General Manager, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, 1424 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 5B9, 519-451-2800.