Senior Fisheries and Aquatic Biologist

SLR Consulting•Edmonton, AB

4d•CA$120,000 - CA$160,000•Hybrid

About The Position

SLR Consulting (Canada) is seeking a Senior Fisheries and Aquatic Biologist to lead work on mining and other projects. This role involves providing expertise in fish and fish habitat assessments, aquatic resources, regulatory approvals, and permitting processes. The successful candidate will offer technical leadership, collaborate effectively with clients, regulators, Indigenous groups, and stakeholders, and possess a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and best practices for aquatic resource management and restoration. Experience in project management, proposal development, and mentoring technical staff is essential for delivering high-quality work in a dynamic consulting environment. The role offers a flexible and dynamic work environment, emphasizing a collaborative working style, client-centric mindset, and strong technical skills.

Requirements

15+ years of professional experience as an Ecologist in the environmental consulting industry, with a focus on fisheries and aquatic ecosystems.
Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in Biology, Ecology or Natural Sciences.
Accreditation as a Registered Professional Biologist through the College of Applied Biologists of BC.
Strong knowledge of fisheries and aquatic field protocols, including scientific study design and implementation.
Experience supporting environmental assessment, baseline evaluation, monitoring, and oversight of large multidisciplinary projects.
Proficiency in database management, statistical data analysis, and ecological data interpretation.
Excellent technical writing, reporting and research skills, including experience in conducting technical reviews.
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.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with experience engaging a range of stakeholders, including internal staff, clients, contractors, Indigenous communities, and regulators.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree (M.Sc.) is considered an asset.
Experience with major projects in the mining sector is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Lead and deliver baseline fisheries assessments, including study design, field programs, habitat characterization, population assessments, and integrated analysis of aquatic ecosystem conditions.
Design and conduct aquatic effects assessments to evaluate potential project impacts on fish, fish habitat, and aquatic ecosystems, including predictive modeling and mitigation planning.
Develop and oversee technical reports and regulatory submissions, ensuring alignment with provincial and federal environmental legislation (e.g., Fisheries Act, Species at Risk Act, Impact Assessment Act).
Manage multidisciplinary projects, including scope development, budgeting, scheduling, resourcing, and quality assurance throughout project delivery.
Engage with clients, regulators, Indigenous communities, and stakeholders, providing clear communication, technical guidance, and strategic recommendations.
Lead and mentor staff and field teams, providing technical review and ensuring safe, efficient and high-quality field operations.
Support environmental permitting and approvals for projects, including fish habitat offsetting/compensation planning and follow up monitoring programs.
Contribute to business development, including preparing proposals, presentations, and bids, and supporting market growth initiatives.
Maintain industry awareness, staying current with regulatory changes, emerging trends, and best practices to inform strategic decision making and ensure compliance.