Ecologist - Intermediate

At GHD we are committed to addressing the world’s biggest challenges in the areas of energy, water and communities. 

About us
We are a global network of multi-disciplinary professionals providing clients with integrated solutions through engineering, environmental, design and construction expertise. 

Our future-focused, innovative approaches connect and support communities around the world, building resiliency and sustainability for generations to come. 

Established in 1928, we remain wholly owned by our people. We are 11,000+ diverse and skilled individuals connected by over 200 offices, across five continents.

Who are we looking for?

This is where you come in! We are seeking an Intermediate Ecologist to join our Western Canada team of environmental professionals who are “lifelong learners”, who improve our physical, social and natural environments; empower our local communities and collectively shape the world around us.

With a network of over 1,000 environmental professionals throughout North America who are driven to achieve; you’ll have the autonomy and opportunity to learn from industry leaders and discover your path. Our industry leaders have strong community ties with in-depth terrestrial and aquatic knowledge and a portfolio of expansive projects throughout North America.

The Intermediate Ecologist will be responsible for the collection, analysis and interpretation of biological survey data collected from project sites. Strong field skills in the identification of plants and wildlife (birds, herptiles, fish), vegetation community typing and mapping, wetland delineation and classification, sediment and water sampling, soil classification, and wildlife salvage are an asset. This person will work with Senior Ecologists and other biological staff as a team on projects. Preparation of various types of reports will be required including Environmental Impact Assessments, Biophysical Assessments, Restoration Plans, Construction Environmental Management Plans, and Environmental Assessments. Consideration will be made for intermediate ecologists that specialize in either terrestrial or aquatic disciplines.

Working with an energetic and high performing team, this position offers a variety of duties and will see you involved in:

• Provide technical expertise with a strong field background in wildlife, botany, ecological land classification, wetland function and delineation, fish and fish habitat, and/or arborist surveys
• Lead, coordinate, and/or conduct field surveys including targeted efforts for Species at Risk, habitat assessments, and compensation and/or permitting requirements
• Conduct wetland evaluations and boundary delineations
• Support the development of proposals
• Support the development of scopes (including field workplans), reporting and provincial and federal permitting, authorizations, and approvals (Water Sustainability Act, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, WLRS, Environmental Assessment Office, Species At Risk Act, Alberta Wetland Policy, Environmental Protection EA, etc.)
• Complete detailed literature reviews of projects including official plans, provincial legislation and regulations, consultant reports, GIS sources, scientific literature and biological databases
• Provide data compilation and interpretation and analysis
• Coordinate, write, and/or provide technical input in support of natural environment components of Environmental Impact Assessments, Biophysical Assessments, Restoration Plans, Construction Environmental Management Plans, and Environmental Assessments and other natural resource related deliverables
• Work with peers and mentor other intermediate and junior staff in all aspects of environmental consulting, while fostering an energetic and collaborative environment

What you bring to the team:

• Bachelor degree in science or environmental studies, university or equivalent
• Minimum 5-7 years of related work experience required
• Previous experience working at an environmental consulting firm, provincial regulator, or non-government organization as a biologist or ecologist
• Ideal candidate will have British Columbia or Alberta based certifications or training (e.g. Ecological Land Classification, Riparian Health Assessment, Riparian Area Protection Regulation, Alberta and/or British Columbia Wetland Classification Systems, etc.)
• Certification as an Authenticating Wetland Professional and/or Qualified Aquatic Environmental Specialist (Alberta), is an asset 
• Ideal candidate will have experience in the field and in the application of natural environment consulting provincial or federal Environmental Assessment and Environmental Impact Studies in at least one of these fields: land development, aggregates and mining, or linear infrastructure (including transportation or pipelines).
• Experience in Western Canada conducting botanical and wildlife surveys with understanding of monitoring protocols, including Species at Risk surveys
• Proven project and client management skills
• Experience with digital data entry in the field and remote data loggers is an asset
• Experience conducting field work, and willingness to travel to undertake field work as required (field demands can include working long hours, working in inclement weather conditions, and working in remote areas)
• Experience leading multiple tasks while maintaining a high degree of attention to detail in a demanding consulting environment
• Exhibit flexibility with the types of project and responsibilities within them
• Experience working with Indigenous communities an asset
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office, excellent English writing and verbal communication is required to effectively express technical information to multiple audiences including clients, agencies, subcontractors, field staff, clients, colleagues, etc.
• Valid driver's license along with a clean driver's abstract is required
• Must have or be able to obtain first aid certification

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Our Hybrid Work Model: Be part of the dynamic culture!  Our workplace thrives on a hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration and flexibility.  Join us in the office three days a week to contribute, connect and excel in our vibrant environment.

The salary range for this position is $74,250 to $123.750.  The posted salary range represents the expected hiring range for GHD locations in its major city centres. Ranges may vary for positions in other locations. At GHD, base salary is determined by your skills, experience, qualifications and work location. We are committed to offering competitive compensation and adhere to all relevant pay transparency legislation.  

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruiting is just getting started and may be used during the process to improve efficiency and fairness. Your application may be reviewed by both AI and our hiring team. While AI supports some steps through the process, all final hiring decisions are made by humans.

Take on some of the world’s toughest challenges - with everyone at GHD backing you every step of the way. We'll give you control over your career, empower you to find innovative solutions and help you create a lasting impact. See where your commitment could take you with GHD.

As a multicultural organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or veteran status.