Environment Operations Lead

Canadian Natural•Calgary, AB

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Canadian Natural has an exciting opportunity for a driven and detail-oriented environmental professional to take the lead on critical environmental management programs at our Horizon Mine. In this dynamic role, you will provide strategic direction, stewardship, and regulatory expertise across wildlife management, surface water requirements, and pre-development land obligations. You will play a key role in implementing the Wildlife Mitigation and Monitoring Plan, supporting the Surface Water Management Plan, and overseeing aquatics programs that enable safe and compliant operations. Leveraging your strong communication and collaboration skills, you will partner closely with mine operations, dewatering teams, and project groups to provide clear regulatory guidance and practical solutions for activities such as bird deterrence, wildlife sweeps, and nuisance wildlife management. This role offers a balanced blend of office-based planning and field engagement (approximately 85% office / 15% field), requiring initiative, adaptability, and a proactive approach to managing evolving environmental priorities.

Requirements

Typically, 15-20 years of experience with a degree in Environmental Science or Biology with relevant work experience, preferably in oil sands
Experience in writing reports for regulators and management
Strong statistical and analytical approach with demonstrated problem solving capability
Expertise in relevant environmental regulations and codes including: Alberta Energy Regulator, Alberta Environment and Protected Areas, Environment and Climate Change Canada; Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Nice To Haves

Registration as a Professional Biologist preferred

Responsibilities

Lead interdisciplinary teams and contractors (wildlife, aquatics, water) while fostering a safe, accountable work environment
Develop, implement, and oversee wildlife and aquatics management, monitoring, and mitigation programs for mining operations
Coordinate with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance, including reporting, permitting, and authorization submissions
Manage wildlife research initiatives, support regional stakeholder collaborations, and represent the organization in external engagements
Collaborate with reclamation teams to design and enhance wildlife habitat strategies within mine closure and reclamation plans
Oversee budgets and contracts, support RFPs, approve expenditures, and mentor junior staff to support professional development