Lead Vegetation Ecologist
Aski Reclamation LP an indigenous-owned environmental consulting company which integrates First Nations’ knowledge with science, to deliver solutions to our clients and pave the way for industry best practices in Restoration, Restoration, and Environmental Services.
The Lead Vegetation Ecologist concentrates their time to a suite of exciting projects related to
the boreal forest, wetlands, and seed collection program. Working under the direction of the
Restoration Manager and as part of a team of environmental professionals, the successful
candidate will be part of the dynamic Restoration Project Team leading the technical components
of the restoration portion of reclamation programs, while leading meaningful work for our
community as well.
Work Environment
The Lead Vegetation Ecologist works in various settings, including natural remote locations, industrial sites, mines, offices, labs, and a range of assessment locations. During this work, you may be required to hike, drive all-terrain vehicles (ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles), collect environmental data from aquatic and terrestrial settings, and perform data collection duties requiring a high level of physical fitness and the capacity to operate safely in remote environments. The ability to complete physically demanding tasks, work for prolonged periods in natural settings and potentially adverse weather conditions, and successfully learn to make good judgment calls is a key requirement for this job.
When not in the field and actively supporting project execution, this Senior role may be given the option to work remotely, or from their home office.
Reports to:
Restoration Division Manager
Major Duties
- Support projects from proposal stage to close-out reporting
- Plan and lead field assessments to industry standards and prepare reports for projects within a variety of sectors (oil and gas, hydroelectric, mines)
- Lead field programs across northeastern British Columbia, ensuring technical excellence, safety, and quality of deliveries
- Work collaboratively with junior, intermediate, and senior staff, sub-consultants, and government agencies
- Perform as the technical lead for all native plant restoration projects including preparation, design, and implementation of work execution plans
- Establish vegetation monitoring methodologies, lead monitoring programs, analyze data, and write summary reports
- Conduct invasive plant assessments and developing invasive plant management plans
- Deliver high quality, well-written technical reports on time and within budget
- Prepare or assist with permit applications, environmental assessments, and environmental management plans
- Collaborate with project management teams to develop project proposals and cost estimates
- Provide mentorship and guidance to new and junior staff
- Organize logistics and project resources timely
- Provide routine project updates to Division Manager
- Demonstrate a proactive approach to safety; remain informed of ERP plans on each site and actively participate in safety and emergency drills; be prepared to respond to emergencies in the field should one occur
- Observe and inspecting sites; Always ensuring your worksite is safe to perform work
- Work with the health and safety employees to develop site orientation material, Safe Work Procedures, and other relevant safety program material
Education and Skills
- An undergraduate or graduate degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Ecological Restoration, or another related field
- Registered Professional Biologist or Agrologist in B.C.
- Minimum 5 years of work experience specialization in plant identification, vegetation ecology, plant restoration, plant prescriptions, and vegetation monitoring
- Experience leading ecological and vegetation field assessments, data collection, data, analysis, and reporting
- Knowledge of relevant federal and provincial environmental legislation
- Demonstrated ability to write detailed technical reports and communicate technical information effectively with clients and colleagues
- The ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as within a team environment and under deadlines
- Strong interpersonal skills, experience mentoring, motivating, and leading field teams
- Valid BC driver’s License
- Willingness to work in remote locations, outside standard office hours with longer workdays in the spring/summer/fall and potential for time off in the winter
Demonstrated abilities in:
- Schedule A pre-site assessments and Schedule B - Site Reclamation Assessments
- Certificate of Restoration Part 2 (CORII) assessments and application support
- Rare plant species surveys
- Soil classification and/or wetland classification
- Terrestrial ecosystem mapping fieldwork, desktop mapping and reporting
- Analysing, evaluating, and interpreting vegetation data using spatial GIS software and statistical programs