Job Description Become part of our global network of skilled engineers, scientists, auditors, planners and environmental specialists, all working together to leave this world better than we found it.

Who are we looking for? We are seeking an Aquatic Ecologist to join our Waterloo team of environmental leaders who are “lifelong learners” who improve our physical, social and natural environments, empower our local communities, and collectively shape the world around us.

As an Aquatic Ecologist you will support the assessment, management and protection of aquatic habitats within infrastructure, land development, mining and environmental projects. This role typically involves conducting field surveys, analyzing ecological data, preparing technical reports, and contributing to impact assessments and permitting applications. You will work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, coordinates with regulatory agencies and supports the development of mitigation and restoration strategies. You will have applied consulting experience, demonstrate strong technical competence and can independently deliver components of project while supporting senior staff.

Our Hybrid Work Model: Be part of the dynamic culture! Our workplace thrives on a hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration and flexibility. Join us in the office 3-days a week to contribute, connect and excel in our vibrant environment.

Working with an energetic and high performing team, this position offers a variety of work and will see you involved in:

• Champion relationships with both internal (GHD) clients and GHD’s external clients in Ontario and across North America
• Provide technical support on natural environment components of Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Studies, Natural Heritage Studies, Cumulative Effects Assessments
• Support the development of proposals, lead fieldwork plans, and reporting as well as permit, authorization, and offsetting approvals (DFO, MECP, Conservation Authorities, SARA, etc.)
• Work with peers, senior and junior staff in all aspects of project work, fostering an energetic and collaborative environment
• Mentor staff to execute positive business outcomes and foster career development for team
• Coordinate technical resources and personnel to achieve timely delivery of multiple projects
• Successful candidate will be energized by a dynamic work environment with opportunities for team leadership and career growth
• Travel to sites, primarily in Ontario
• Lead field investigations (as required)

What you’ll bring to the team:

• Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science including Fisheries, Aquatic Ecology, Biology, Natural Resource Management or related field
• Post-graduate degree and/or PMP designations are assets
• Minimum 5 years consulting experience leading natural science/ecology projects in Ontario throughout multiple industries within a consulting firm or a minimum 3 years in a senior environmental leadership role in public or private industry
• Ideal candidate will have experience in the application of natural environment consulting for provincial or federal Environmental Assessments and impact assessments and in at least one of transportation, linear infrastructure, natural asset valuation, sediment and/or land development sectors and mining industry
• Proven project and client management skills; strong sense of business acumen
• Proven leadership skills, communication, technical writing and organization skills
• Experience managing multiple tasks while maintaining a high degree of attention to detail in a demanding consulting environment
• Knowledge of current provincial and federal government regulatory requirements as they apply to fish and fish habitat, including aquatic species at risk
• Willingness to travel to undertake field work as required (field demands can include working long hours, working in inclement weather conditions, and lifting up to 50 lbs)
• Excellent technical skills in fisheries, aquatic habitats, benthic invertebrates and/or aquatic fauna in Southern Ontario Class I Electrofishing or Class II Backpack Electrofishing Certification
• Experienced with developing aquatic field programs and methods to meet specific objectives
• Experience in leading field crews in the execution of fish and fish habitat field programs, including fish sampling and identification.
• Strong working knowledge of collecting, assembling and analyzing ecological data
• Must be flexible with project types and responsibilities
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office, excellent English writing and verbal communication is required to effectively express technical information to multiple audiences including clients, agencies, subcontractors, field staff, clients, colleagues, etc.
• Excellent report and proposal writing skills
• Valid driver's license (an MVR check will be performed prior to hire)
• Positive attitude, extraordinary communication and interpersonal skills

Additional Assets:

• Registered in MTO RAQS for Fisheries Assessment an asset
• Registered in MTO RAQS for Fisheries Contracts an asset
• MTO Fisheries Protocol Training
• Application of the MTO Fisheries Protocol for Protecting Fish and Fish Habitat on Provincial Undertakings (2025)
• Certified Inspector of Sediment and Erosion Control (CISEC)
• Experience in implementing the Evaluation, Classification and Management of Headwater Drainage Features Guidelines
• Familiar with the Ontario Stream Assessment Protocol (OSAP)
• Experience working with Indigenous communities an asset
• Experience with delivery of aquatic ecology services in other regions of North America
• Use of digital data collection tools
• First Aid certification (training will be provided if needed)

Please note:

• The salary range for this position is $67,500 to $112,500. The posted salary range represents the expected hiring range for GHD locations in its major city centres. Ranges may vary for positions in other locations. At GHD, base salary is determined by your skills, experience, qualifications and work location. We are committed to offering competitive compensation and adhere to all relevant pay transparency legislation.
• The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruiting is just getting started and may be used during the process to improve efficiency and fairness. Your application may be reviewed by both AI and our hiring team. While AI supports some steps through the process, all final hiring decisions are made by humans
• As a diverse and inclusive organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. Upon request, GHD will provide reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment and selection process.
• This position is for an existing vacancy