Intermediate Vegetation Biologist

Vertex Resource Group•Fort McMurray, AB

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

Vertex is currently accepting applications for an Intermediate Vegetation Biologist in Sherwood Park or Fort Mcـay, Alberta. The successful candidate must have strong plant identification skills, an understanding of data management procedures, technical writing skills and demonstrated competence in challenging field conditions. Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, willing to travel throughout Western Canada, and enjoy working in the field for extended periods of time. Reporting to the Manager – Reclamation and Plant Science, the Intermediate Vegetation Specialist must be able to work both independently and as part of a team and is expected to progressively take on additional responsibilities.

Requirements

Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Botany, Forestry, Environmental Science or other applicable field
Professional Biologist (P.Biol) with the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) or eligible to apply; or equivalent
Three to five (3 – 5) years of experience required
Strong plant identification skills (knowledge of Latin nomenclature preferred) and experience conducting vegetation and tree assessments (rare plants, ecosite mapping, reclamation monitoring, weed surveys)
Understanding of remote area navigation; experience using maps, compass, GPS and aerial photos for navigation in the field is an asset
Demonstrated ability to drive trucks and/or a variety of off-road vehicles in rough terrain
General understanding of Canadian environmental regulations, guidelines and standards
Experience using spreadsheets and GIS programs
Demonstrated leadership, communication and decision-making skills
Able to think critically, problem solve, and prioritize time and effort effectively
Professional conduct, strong interpersonal skills and be a positive energy to the role
Strong technical report writing and data management skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Willingness to work in the field for extended periods of time
Willingness to travel within Western Canada, as required
Drug and Alcohol screening will be required prior to employment

Nice To Haves

Specialized plant identification skills (e.g. bryophytes, sedges, grasses, weeds, wetland species), experience with soils classification, forestry regeneration surveys, forestry permanent sample plots and reclamation an asset
Experience towing trailers and basic mechanical skills an asset
Comfortable working in remote locations, with access by truck, ATV, Argo, or helicopter
Physically capable of and willing to access work sites by foot, sometimes in wet and/or steep conditions

Responsibilities

Field work is a requirement, approximately 60% or more of time will be allocated to the field
Work on a variety of oil and gas, mine sites and remote locations to conduct field work primarily focused on vegetation, soils, tree and wetland assessments
Data management (data tables, photographs, inputting field data sheets, analysis and interpretation)
Reporting (all types, styles and formats that Vertex produces)
Create and use maps and other geospatial information
Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, practices and standard operating procedures
Support project needs related to other disciplines (e.g. wildlife, soils, water quality)
Other related duties as assigned by the manager