Aquatic Ecologist (Intermediate to Senior)

SLR Consulting•Vancouver, BC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

SLR Consulting (Canada) is seeking an Aquatic Ecologist (Intermediate to Senior) to join their Ecology and Biodiversity practice. This role will support mining and infrastructure projects by providing expertise in surface water quality, aquatic assessments, and project management. The position involves full project management scope, mentorship of junior staff, field data collection, report writing, and client/stakeholder communication. The role will support existing large infrastructure projects and lead new opportunities in British Columbia. The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of aquatic ecology, surface water quality, benthic studies, environmental assessment and monitoring, environmental permitting, and client liaison within regulatory frameworks. This is an opportunity for entrepreneurial individuals excited about growth and making a significant impact.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, or Natural Sciences.
7 to 10+ years of experience in ecological sciences, with at least 3+ years in consulting.
Registered or eligible to be registered as an RPBio.
Experience in surface water and sediment quality investigations and assessments, benthic and periphyton studies, and project management and coordination.
Strong knowledge of aquatic field protocols, including scientific study design and implementation.
Experience supporting environmental assessment, monitoring, and oversight of large infrastructure projects.
Proficiency in database management (e.g., EQuIS), statistical data analysis, and ecological data interpretation.
Excellent technical writing, reporting, and research skills, including experience conducting technical reviews.
Experience in natural resource assessments and inventories, environmental assessment, and working in multi-disciplinary teams.
Experience navigating permitting and authorization processes related to Canadian federal, provincial, and regional legislation and policies.
Demonstrated project coordination and management skills, including project planning, schedule and budget preparation, project implementation, and the ability to produce deliverables on time.
Excellent communication and problem-solving skills with the ability to interact with senior level staff, other technical disciplines, Indigenous groups, and clients.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree is considered an asset.
CABIN and electrofishing certification is considered an asset.
Specific experience in the mining sector is an asset.

Responsibilities

Lead the full project lifecycle, including proposals, scope development, scheduling, budgeting, resourcing, and delivery.
Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and manage project risks, timelines, and deliverables.
Plan and lead aquatic field programs using recognized protocols, including water and sediment quality sampling related to fisheries and hydrology assessments, benthic invertebrate studies, and periphyton studies, often in remote locations.
Analyze and interpret field data using statistical software and synthesize results into high-quality technical reports.
Assist in preparing baseline reports, environmental assessments, and environmental management plans that meet regulatory and client expectations.
Navigate federal, provincial, and municipal regulatory frameworks.
Support environmental permitting, compliance monitoring, and regulatory submissions, ensuring projects meet applicable legislative and permit requirements.
Mentor junior staff and field teams through technical guidance, review, and coaching, while promoting safe, efficient, and high-quality field operations.
Liaise between clients, stakeholders, and senior team members to ensure compliance and project objectives are met.
Support the development of new opportunities and long-term client relationships, helping to grow SLR’s aquatic ecology presence across British Columbia.