Intermediate Vegetation Biologist

VERSATILITY. EXPERTISE.

With these two words, Vertex makes the promise that we will always be versatile in developing solutions to our clients’ unique needs and that we will always demonstrate expertise in our designated fields.

Since 1962, Vertex has been a leading North American provider of environmental services. With over 50 years of expertise, Vertex helps clients achieve their development goals through our versatile suite of services. From the initial site selection, consultation and regulatory approval, through the construction, operation and maintenance phases, to conclusion and environmental cleanup, Vertex offers a diverse range of services throughout the life cycle of our clients’ projects.

OVERVIEW

Vertex is currently accepting applications for an Intermediate Vegetation Biologist in Sherwood Park or Fort McMurray, Alberta. The successful candidate must have strong plant identification skills, an understanding of data management procedures, technical writing skills and demonstrated competence in challenging field conditions. Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, willing to travel throughout Western Canada, and enjoy working in the field for extended periods of time. Reporting to the Manager – Reclamation and Plant Science, the Intermediate Vegetation Specialist must be able to work both independently and as part of a team and is expected to progressively take on additional responsibilities.

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Botany, Forestry, Environmental Science or other applicable field


• Professional Biologist (P.Biol) with the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) or eligible to apply; or equivalent


• Three to five (3 – 5) years of experience required

• Strong plant identification skills (knowledge of Latin nomenclature preferred) and experience conducting vegetation and tree assessments (rare plants, ecosite mapping, reclamation monitoring, weed surveys)

• Specialized plant identification skills (e.g. bryophytes, sedges, grasses, weeds, wetland species), experience with soils classification, forestry regeneration surveys, forestry permanent sample plots and reclamation an asset


• Understanding of remote area navigation; experience using maps, compass, GPS and aerial photos for navigation in the field is an asset


• Demonstrated ability to drive trucks and/or a variety of off-road vehicles in rough terrain


• Experience towing trailers and basic mechanical skills an asset

• Comfortable working in remote locations, with access by truck, ATV, Argo, or helicopter


• Physically capable of and willing to access work sites by foot, sometimes in wet and/or steep conditions


• General understanding of Canadian environmental regulations, guidelines and standards

• Experience using spreadsheets and GIS programs


• Demonstrated leadership, communication and decision-making skills


• Able to think critically, problem solve, and prioritize time and effort effectively


• Professional conduct, strong interpersonal skills and be a positive energy to the role


• Strong technical report writing and data management skills


• Ability to work independently and as part of a team


• Willingness to work in the field for extended periods of time


• Willingness to travel within Western Canada, as required


• Drug and Alcohol screening will be required prior to employment

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Field work is a requirement, approximately 60% or more of time will be allocated to the field


• Work on a variety of oil and gas, mine sites and remote locations to conduct field work primarily focused on vegetation, soils, tree and wetland assessments


• Data management (data tables, photographs, inputting field data sheets, analysis and interpretation)


• Reporting (all types, styles and formats that Vertex produces)


• Create and use maps and other geospatial information


• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, practices and standard operating procedures

• Support project needs related to other disciplines (e.g. wildlife, soils, water quality)


• Other related duties as assigned by the manager

LOCATION

• This position will be based out of Sherwood Park or Fort McMurray, Alberta

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Compensation is commensurate with education and experience


• Comprehensive benefits package


• RRSP Plan


• Opportunity for advancement

With a track record of success, Vertex provides a fast-paced environment where people thrive. We recognize that each member brings a valuable skill-set to the Vertex team and we make health, safety and community well-being a priority by supporting numerous endeavors at each of our locations across North America.

At Vertex, we value teamwork through collaboration and provide support across the entire organization. If you think you have what it takes to play for the Vertex team, please apply to this link.

*We would like to thank all applicants for their interest in this position, however only those selected for interviews will be contacted*