Ecologist, Planning - Full-Time Position (TRCA-222-19)

Under the direction of the Senior Manager, Planning Ecology and the supervision of the Senior Planning Ecologist, the Ecologist, Planning uses their expertise and experience in aquatic and terrestrial natural heritage and ecosystem sciences to provide technical review and advice on intermediate to major, and occasionally complex, applications under the Planning Act, Environmental Assessment Act, the Conservation Authorities Act and Regulation 166/06 as well as for internal TRCA projects/programmes. Through this work, the Ecologist, Planning ensures that TRCA’s regulatory and policy interests for natural systems are being met. In addition, advice, related to the Provincal interests for natural heritage protection under the Planning Act and other Provincial Plans, is provided.  This review is undertaken with a level of independence while exercising good judgement, critical thinking and accountability. This position also involves training and mentoring junior staff/volunteers/interns. The Ecologist, Planning must provide and maintain excellent and efficient customer and client service within established timelines. At the request of the Senior Planning Ecologist or Senior Manager, Planning Ecology, the Ecologist, Planning may assist with the review of complex files or special projects.  In addition, they may be requested to participate on technical advisory committees, or provide ecological expertise to other projects and initiatives being undertaken by TRCA or its partners.      

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review reports and construction plans submitted as part of planning, permit and environmental assessment applications.
• Provide clear, concise technical advice, in accordance with prescribed delivery standards, to development and environmental assessment planners to ensure compliance with TRCA's programs, policies and regulation requirements as well as Provincial natural heritage objectives.
• Provide support to planners and occasionally take the lead during site visits and meetings so that technical guidance provided to proponents and their consultants is in keeping with TRCA 's programs, policies and regulation requirements.
• Identify regulated features such as watercourses and wetlands and delineate (stake) the limits of natural features in the field.
• Work collaboratively with internal staff including planners, hydrogeologists, water resource engineers and geotechnical engineers to ensure coordination and compatibility of technical comments.
• Maintain effective and productive partnerships with municipal, provincial and federal agencies and maintain positive relationships with the general public, proponents, consultants, municipal staff and other agency staff.
• Interpret aquatic and terrestrial natural heritage information and provide technical assistance to internal staff on erosion, ecological restoration projects and land management projects.
• Participate on various working groups/teams to provide technical input into the preparation of watershed plans, fisheries management plans, natural heritage management reports, report cards and other research projects and initiatives undertaken by TRCA or its partners.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• University Degree in biology, ecology, natural resources management, environmental sciences or related disciplines.
• Minimum 5 years of experience related to the major tasks.
• Valid Driver’s licence.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Applied knowledge of ecosystem sciences, terrestrial and/or aquatic ecology, landscape ecology, environmental planning, and impact assessment.
• Applied knowledge of  the Conservation Authorities Act, the Planning Act, the Environmental Assessment Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Fisheries Act, etc.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and supporting technical reports for more complex undertakings/projects.
• Experience related to construction techniques and measures to mitigate environmental damage.
• Demonstrated critical thinking skills and the ability to apply sound scientific judgement.
• Experience using analytical and conflict resolutions skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with other technical staff and disciplines.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.  Ability to articulate complex ecological concepts to non-ecologists with an approach that favours comprehension.
• Time management skills to ensure deadlines are met within various service delivery standards.
• Leadership in mentoring and supporting the development of junior staff.
• Demonstrates professional resilience and accountability for decisions.

To apply to this posting, click on the “Apply” icon. Please submit your resume and cover letter quoting job posting # TRCA-222-19 prior to midnight on August 19, 2019.

While TRCA thanks all applicants for their interest, only those under consideration will be contacted for interviews. Please be advised successful incumbent(s) who are not presently permanent TRCA employees may be required to undergo a vulnerable sector and/or driver's abstract check.

TRCA is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Our goal is to attract, develop and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, allowing us to benefit from a wide variety of experiences and perspectives. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, and TRCA’s Accommodation Policy, accommodation will be provided at any point throughout the hiring process, provided the candidate makes their accommodation needs known to the Authority. We welcome applications from all qualified persons.