Aquatics Biologist - Field Operations Lead

Aquatics Biologist - Field Operations Lead

Job posted 4 days ago. 25 applicants.

Maskwa Environmental Consulting Ltd. (Maskwa) is a professional consulting firm based in Calgary, Alberta. We specialize in planning, permitting, strategy development and implementation, and environmental services. Our clients are diverse, representing renewable energy, electrical transmission and distribution, municipal and oil and gas sectors. We pride ourselves on a vibrant corporate culture and progressive work environment offering flexible arrangements, training opportunities and benefits.

The ideal candidate will employ knowledge of aquatic species and habitats to support clients in planning and permitting new projects, construction monitoring, and post‑construction assessments. Primary role includes leading field assessments, construction/water quality monitoring, fish rescues; the successful candidate will also assist in interdisciplinary projects (report writing, proposal strategy and development). The candidate will coach and mentor staff, fostering a knowledge transfer environment.

• University degree (e.g.,
  
  B.Sc. or M.Sc.) in Environmental Science, Biology or related or a technical diploma in biological sciences.
• 3+ years of aquatic field survey experience assessing fish presence, habitat, potential negative effects and mitigation measures.
• Qualified aquatic environment specialist (QAES).
• Strong working knowledge of provincial and federal regulatory regimes (e.g., Water Act, Alberta Environment and Protected Areas, Fisheries and Oceans Canada).
• Superior written and verbal communication.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, ability to prioritize work.
• Effective communication of aquatic species and habitat requirements to project teams and clients.
• Team‑oriented and suited to work as part of a multi‑disciplinary team.
• Self‑directed and able to work independently.

• Experience applying regulations to energy‑sector projects, priority to pipelines, electrical transmission/distribution, renewable energy.
• Electro‑fishing training.
• Working knowledge of regulatory regime in other western Canadian jurisdictions.
• Sense of initiative, open‑minded approach to diverse projects and tasks in a growing business.
• Unwavering commitment to health and safety.

• Lead field assessments for aquatic species and habitat.
• Complete data entry and technical report writing for aquatic species and habitats, including recommendations for mitigation measures.
• Complete and submit regulatory applications and notifications (Fish Research License, Species at Risk permit, Fisheries and Oceans Canada request for review, Water Act Codes of Practice notifications, Water Act approval applications, Transport Canada approval applications).
• Conduct fish rescues, water quality monitoring, and environmental inspection during instream work, providing ongoing QAES recommendations where appropriate.
• Mentor and train junior staff on established aquatic/fisheries survey techniques and protocols.
• Contribute to other biophysical assessment survey programs and reporting, project management, business development as required.
• Assist with proposal writing and cost estimating for proposals.
• Review, analyze and apply regulatory guidelines/legislation to project work, especially from an aquatic and fisheries management/mitigation perspective.
• Demonstrated ability to work safely in remote settings.
• Deliver in a fast‑paced, dynamic working environment.
• Collaborate with staff across the company and externally to complete deliverables.
• Complete required corporate operation and administrative activities (time entry, expense submissions, invoicing, reporting, etc.) in a timely manner.
• Support Maskwa employees in day‑to‑day business operations.

Competitive salary, bonus structure and benefits reflective of skillset and experience.

‑time hybrid position, preferably based out of Calgary office (140 10 Avenue SE) or Edmonton field office (5208 82 Avenue NW). Remote work considered for certain candidates. Travel throughout Alberta required.

Send a cover letter and resume as a PDF attachment to  with subject line “250403 – Aquatic Biologist”. Applications will be treated with strict confidence. Only short‑listed candidates that meet core responsibilities/qualifications will be considered.

Maskwa strives to create a fair, diverse, inclusive workplace where all voices are heard with respect and treated equally. Everyone should feel comfortable being their authentic selves.