Terrestrial Ecologist

at  Azimuth Environmental Consulting

OVERVIEW

Azimuth Environmental Consulting is seeking a biologist specializing in terrestrial ecology at the intermediate or senior level. Applicants must have a university degree in biology or related field, and a minimum 5 years of relevant experience. The successful candidate will be required to coordinate with clients, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders to manage projects and prepare reports in a timely and effective manner. The successful candidate will also undertake field surveys including plant inventories, vegetation community identification, and wildlife surveys for breeding birds, reptiles, amphibians, bats and other mammals. Applicants must be able to work independently with minimal supervision. Strong data management and technical writing skills are a must.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• University degree in ecology, plant/wildlife biology or related studies with a minimum of 5 years experience conducting and managing terrestrial studies;
• Knowledge of Ontario’s Endangered Species Act, federal Species at Risk Act, Provincial Policy Statement, Fisheries Act, Migratory Birds Convention Act, Greenbelt Plan, Niagara Escarpment Plan, Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe and other relevant provincial and federal environmental legislation;
• Proven ability to develop and conduct ecological field programs, efficiently manage large volumes of data and communicate findings clearly and efficiently in technical reports;
• Experience completing environmental site inspections on construction sites is an asset;
• Strong field inventory skills related to completion of surveys of vascular plants and plant communities, including rare species and Species at Risk;
• Ability to identify birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals using visual and auditory cues;
• Certifications in Ecological Land Classification, Ontario Wetland Evaluation System, Butternut Health Assessor, and Ontario Reptile & Amphibian Survey Course, or equivalent knowledge, considered strong assets;
• Recognized ability to work independently in both indoor (office), and outdoor (field) settings which may include moderate physical exertion; and,
• Valid Ontario driver’s license.

• Effectively managing proposals, budgets, and reporting deliverables in accordance with project timelines and requirements;
• Coordinating with clients, consultants, and regulatory agencies on a routine basis;
• Preparing technical reports associated with project, approval, or compliance requirements in concert with environmental planners, engineers and project managers;
• Planning and development of management practices for environmental mitigation zones and restoration areas;
• Conducting terrestrial biological studies to support a variety of public and private sector clients;
• Providing assistance and mentorship to junior staff in both field and office settings;
• Assessment of vegetation communities and wildlife habitat, including habitat for Species at Risk;
• Effectively managing large quantities of field data;
• Preparation of regulatory approval and permit applications; and,
• Maintaining positive working relationships with government and regulatory agencies.