The Hamilton Conservation Authority currently has a full-time employment opportunity for aTerrestrial EcologistReporting to the Supervisor, Stewardship & Ecological Services, the Terrestrial Ecologist supports the achievement of HCA’s strategic goals and objectives related to natural heritage conservation and restoration, and environmentally sustainable land management. The Terrestrial Ecologist is responsible for the implementation of the Hamilton Conservation Authority’s (HCA) terrestrial resource monitoring program (TRMP) and habitat restoration projects, and for the assessment, management and distribution of data collected from these initiatives. The Terrestrial Ecologist undertakes the terrestrial biological evaluation, review and response to planning and permit applications received by HCA planning staff. This position conducts field work in support of the Conservation Area Master Plan program, and provides review and input to Master Plan documents. The Terrestrial Ecologist works closely with the Aquatic Ecologist, and also with other HCA division staff and programs to provide advice and expertise in assisting with the implementation of conservation and capital infrastructure projects within HCA’s jurisdiction.ResponsibilitiesCoordinate terrestrial resources monitoring program by undertaking field work, entering, analyzing and managing data and providing reports and recommendations regarding the results of the program.Review of planning and permit applications, if required, circulated under the Planning Act, Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act, Environmental Assessment Act, and Conservation Authorities Act.Participate in site visits and meetings as required in the support of the review of development proposals.Delineation of wetland boundaries using the Ontario wetland evaluation system.Provide data from HCA’s Natural Areas Inventory Database to consultants and researchers, and support maintenance of HCA’s Natural Areas Inventory Database.Support conservation area master plan program by completing Ecological Land Classifications, flora, breeding bird and marsh monitoring protocol surveys on HCA owned lands.Compile field data and maps and write ecology sections for each master plan.Coordinate implementation of HCA’s invasive species strategy, including development of annual invasive species management field program and assisting with pesticide spray and removal.Plan and oversee terrestrial habitat rehabilitation projects by identifying opportunities for restoration projects and implementing them in coordination with other HCA departments.Hire, train and co-supervise Assistant Ecologists and Invasive Species Technicians, and seasonal summer staff.Support the administration of HCA’s Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program (CLTIP).Provide technical review and advice as necessary to support projects and initiatives undertaken by other HCA Divisions.Support wildlife monitoring and management on HCA properties in accordance with HCA’s Wildlife Conflict Management Strategy.Review and coordinate Research Authorizations for works conducted on HCA owned or controlled properties.Attend meetings in support of carrying out duties, and represent HCA on various external committees and initiatives when required.Respond to public and media enquiries regarding ecological matters.Other duties as assigned.QualificationsA university degree or college diploma in ecology, biology or related environmental sciences.Minimum of three to five (3 to 5) years of related work experience and at least 2-3 years of experience in a supervisory or managerial role.Possess a strong working knowledge of terrestrial ecosystems (especially those in southern Ontario), including methodologies and protocols for the sampling, classification, evaluation, and monitoring of terrestrial ecosystems.Thorough understanding of terrestrial habitat restoration and rehabilitation techniques, and experience with the planning and implementation of rehabilitation projects.Strong identification skills for southern Ontario flora and fauna; as well as knowledge of invasive species in Ontario and methods for their control and removal.Pesticide licence (Forestry and / or Landscape) would be considered an asset.Understanding of principles and approaches related to hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, natural resources management, and environmental impact assessment, and knowledge of watershed management and land use planning processes.Working knowledge of planning and resource management related legislation, regulations and policies including the Conservation Authorities Act, Planning Act and Provincial Policy Statement, Fisheries Act, Species at Risk Act, and Endangered Species Act, along with practical experience applying this knowledge in the review of development applications.Experience reviewing and interpreting technical plans and drawings (i.e. site plans, grading and drainage plans, landscape plans, etc.).Training and certification in, and / or working experience using Ecological Land Classification, Ontario Wetland Evaluation System, Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Network (EMAN), Marsh Monitoring Program, Forest Bird Monitoring Program.Knowledge and understanding of the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program and Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program for Ontario.Familiar with statistical analysis approaches and methodologies, and applied experience undertaking the statistical analysis of ecological data.Project management experience, including the preparation of grant funding applications, project proposals, budgets and progress reports.Ability to guide, mentor, and motivate staff to meet goals and deadlines.Excellent written and oral communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with a broad range of stakeholders.Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.Positive team player capable of self-directed, independent work.Strong time management skills and ability to balance multiple files and priorities.Ability to work outdoors to conduct field investigations in variable terrain and weather conditions.Standard First Aid and CPR.Proficient with the use of Microsoft Office software suite including database management (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), and experience working with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).Working ConditionsPosition is located in the Hamilton Conservation Authority main office (Woodend) at 838 Mineral Spring Road, Ancaster. Work hours are 7.5 hours per day for a total 37.5 hours per week, with occasional weekend and evening work as required.This position offers a salary range of $93,060 to $107,882 commensurate with experience and education. Progression will be based on merit and is reviewed annually. Additionally, yearly cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) may be considered.This position is eligible for benefits as outlined in HCA’s Employee Handbook as it pertains to a full-time position. Most benefits become effective after the 3-month probation period (health, dental, disability insurances and life insurance); however, the defined contribution pension plan requires one year of service.Application ProcessInterested applicants are to send their cover letter and resume in PDF or MS Word format via email by Friday, March 28, 2025 at 4:00 pm to: (Please include job title in email subject line)Although we appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.Accessibility accommodations are available for all parts of the recruitment process; applicants are asked to inform Human Resources for any disability required accommodations in advance.
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