Regional Forested Ecosystems Science Specialist

Apply By:Tuesday, September 1, 2026 11:59 pm EDT

$78,680.16 - $99,245.64 Per year
* * Indicates the salary listed as per the OPSEU Collective Agreement.

A unique and interesting opportunity exists for those with a background and experience in forest science. Consider this role in which your expertise and communication skills will be showcased and utilized to provide advice and input into the development of resource management plans, regional programs, standards and guidelines.

The Ontario Public Service (OPS) is committed to being an employer of first choice, creating a positive and inclusive work environment.

We offer:

• a defined benefit pension plan
• maternity and parental leave top-up benefits which includes adoptive parents
• comprehensive health plan
• life and disability insurance
• flexible work arrangements
• collegial and professional work culture
• career growth and development opportunities across multiple business areas
• on-the-job training to support your success in the role

Please note: alternate work locations may be considered, based on operational feasibility and managerial discretion.

In this role, you will:

• provide leadership in the identification of scientific needs assessment, synthesis and transfer of science/information to meet the needs of resource management planners and practitioners in the region relative to forest ecosystem dynamics
• contribute to the direct integration of science advice in support of resource management decisions, issues management and policy implementation
• provide scientific/professional advice and leadership in the calibration and use of resource assessment and management practices, standards, statistical design, science tools and analytical procedures

• You must have a valid class 'G' driver's licence or equivalent, as recognized by the Province of Ontario. The offer of employment is conditional upon the successful candidate providing proof that they have a valid driver's licence upon being hired.
• You must possess a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) designation from the Ontario Professional Foresters Association or have the ability to transfer designation from out-of-province and be able to practise professional forestry without professional supervision.

• knowledge of the theories, principles and practices related to forest science and forest ecosystem dynamics (e.g. forest growth and yield, stand establishment, forest soils, forest succession, ecological land classification) as well as knowledge, understanding and ability to apply current ecological, resource management principles and planning approaches
• knowledge of resource management legislation, regulations, policies and guidelines relative to Ontario (e.g. Crown Forest Sustainability Act, Endangered Species Act, Environmental Assessment Act, Ontario Professional Foresters Act, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act)
• knowledge of technical and scientific procedures and practices for monitoring and assessment (e.g. sampling methods, design and standards), as well as, experimental design and statistical analysis
• demonstrated growth & yield experience

• communication and presentation skills to provide input about strategic and operational plans and reports, to provide advice and guidance to partners/clients and explain resource management approaches and technical scientific information to staff and the public, including making senior level presentations and providing media interviews
• ability to transfer science and technology in symposia and workshops and to prepare and/or present briefing notes, technical reports, Minister's letters

• interpersonal and relationship management skills to effectively liaise with resource management practitioners, industry, Indigenous groups, non-government agencies, researchers and other resource management partners on forest science needs and resource management issues and participate on committees and working groups as required
• facilitation and conflict resolution skills to effectively identify various perspectives, determine areas of common agreement and facilitate cooperation between researchers, clients and partners

• research skills to review literature, scientific reports and research available technical information
• analytical and problem-solving skills to investigate existing science related to resource management challenges or issues, and to assess biological/resource management situations based on large resource/user datasets and to clarify problems, evaluate options and identify approaches to address a variety of forest science, biology and related ecosystem concerns

• knowledge of project management and organization processes to organize and complete work within assigned timelines, set appropriate priorities, plan work effectively and…