Senior Ecologist - Project Coordinator

Join to apply for the Senior Ecologist - Project Coordinator role at R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited
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Join us at our new Hamilton location as we expand our Land Development Ecology Team and lead the way in shaping innovative ecological solutions. We’re seeking a Senior Aquatic or Terrestrial Ecologist (permanent, full-time) who is passionate about environmental stewardship and ready to take the next step in their career.

As a senior member of our Land Development Ecology Team, you’ll play a key role in delivering ecological services for land development projects across southern and central Ontario. You’ll collaborate with ecologists, engineers, and environmental professionals to guide project delivery, mentor junior staff, and contribute to the growth of our ecology practice. You’ll report directly to the Vice President of Ecology, Land Development, and work in a dynamic, multi‑disciplinary environment focused on client success and ecological integrity.

Depending on your specialization (Aquatic or Terrestrial), your responsibilities may include:

• Lead aquatic fieldwork and ecological surveys using established protocols (e.g., fish habitat, headwater drainage feature assessments).
• Manage environmental components of land development projects including scope, budget, and deliverables.
• Design and implement Environmental/Adaptive Management Plans, including ESC strategies and water quality monitoring.
• Prepare and submit permit applications under the Species at Risk Act, Endangered Species Act, and Fisheries Act (e.g., Redside Dace).
• Liaise with federal and provincial agencies (DFO, MNR, MECP) on behalf of clients.
• Produce high‑quality technical reports and documentation for environmental approvals.
• Contribute to Environmental Impact Studies, Natural Heritage Evaluations, and Environmental Assessments.

• Lead terrestrial fieldwork and ecological surveys using established protocols.
• Manage natural environmental components of land development projects.
• Prepare and submit permit applications under the Endangered Species Act (e.g., Butternut).
• Liaise with Conservation Authorities and provincial agencies during permitting processes.
• Coordinate and produce technical reports and documentation for environmental approvals.
• Prepare Environmental Impact Studies, Natural Heritage Evaluations, and Due Diligence Assessments.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Studies, or a related field.
• 10+ years of consulting experience in ecology, with proven leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent technical writing skills and experience preparing high‑quality reports and proposals.
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with a client‑focused approach.

• Aquatic Ecology: OSAP, Fish , OBBN, Class 2 Backpack Electrofishing, Can‑CISEC, ESC inspection experience.
• Terrestrial Ecology:
  Ecological Land Classification, Ontario Wetland Evaluation System, Butternut Health Assessment, ISA Certified Arborist, vascular plant inventory.
• Working knowledge of relevant legislation and policies (e.g., Fisheries Act, Endangered Species Act, Conservation Authorities Act, Provincial Planning Statement, Greenbelt Plan).
• Experience with ArcGIS and/or AutoCAD is an asset.

• You lead projects with confidence, delivering ecological solutions that meet regulatory and client expectations.
• You mentor and inspire junior staff, contributing to a strong and collaborative team culture.
• You maintain strong relationships with regulatory agencies and clients through clear, professional communication.
• You produce high‑quality technical documentation that supports project approvals and ecological integrity.
• You help grow our ecology practice through innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

Are you interested in working for an employer with a 5‑decade track record of building a great reputation both internally with their staff and externally with their…