Environmental Biologist

We need Environmental Biologists to help reduce the impacts of mining operations on the surrounding ecosystem. Passionate about science and the environment, they develop new technologies and procedures to ensure that mining is conducted in a sustainable way.

What is it like to work as an Environmental Biologist in mining?

Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.

Environmental Biologists are based in an office or laboratory on or near the mine site. They spend a considerable amount of time conducting surveys and fieldwork in, and around, the mine site, and may conduct on-site assessments and travel long distances to collect samples. When conducting fieldwork, they may need to drive on radio-controlled resource roads. Fieldwork is conducted in all types of environmental conditions, within bodies of water (including rivers, and streams) and may require the handling of toxic or dangerous substances and/or organisms.

Why are People Attracted to this Career?

Environmental Biologists have a deep concern for the environment and sustainability. They like scientific investigation and are interested in field assignments and being outdoors. They also enjoy conducting desk research, analyzing data and creating technical reports. They are committed to environmental protection and like to support mining companies in environmental stewardship.

Job Description

  • Plan, conduct, and monitor environmental projects to ensure that the mine is operating responsibly in compliance with federal and provincial regulatory requirements and environmental protection acts and guidelines

  • Develop new technologies and innovative processes and procedures to ensure that mining is conducted in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly manner

  • Lead and manage environmental assessments to protect groundwater, fisheries, wildlife, and other natural and aquatic resources from the effects of mining

  • Conduct investigation, field studies and environmental monitoring of mining operations on water, plant and animal life, and overall ecosystems in accordance with accepted inventory collection guidelines (RIC)

  • Plan, organize and conduct field surveys including wetland delineation, habitat assessment, native plants, and other ecological studies

  • Collect, prepare and analyze samples of water, soil, and plant and animal population including field water, benthos and soil sampling at contaminated sites

  • Apply scientific tools, statistical techniques and computer technologies to collect, analyze and research data

  • Prepare environmental and compliance assessment reports and technical correspondence for internal stakeholders and regulatory authorities

  • Supervise technicians, field crews and other biologists and work with other inter-disciplinary project teams

  • Provide technical support to Project Managers for the Contaminated Site Management practice on natural resources damages, ecological and human health risk assessment tasks

Starting salary

$60,000.00

Top Salary

$124,000.00

Demand in Mining

1 2 3 4 5

Skill Transferability Among Other Industries

1 2 3 4 5

Success Profile

  • Conducts statistical analysis

  • Visualizes completed projects

  • Works independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team

  • Adaptable, analytical, professional, conscientious, detail-oriented and organized

  • Critical thinker

  • Understands and respects safety procedures, environmental legislation and regulations

  • Has strong communication, writing, computer and critical thinking skills

  • Values safety, health and a positive working environment

Job Entry Requirements

Note: The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science

  • Six to eight years of experience in environmental assessment projects and consulting experience in mining or in similar industries and small/large hydroelectric projects

  • Hands-on experience with environmental assessment, impact surveys, field studies of endangered species and/or wetland delineation projects

  • Knowledge of industry-specific statistical and analytical computer software

  • Knowledge and experience with federal, provincial and local workplace health and safety and environmental legislations, rules, regulations and reporting processes and procedures

  • Valid Class 5 driver’s licence

  • Ability and willing to conduct fieldwork in all types of environmental conditions and harsh terrain as well as periodic overnight travel

  • Physical stamina for fieldwork

  • Must pass a medical and drug test

  • Proficiency in language of operation

Regional Requirement

  • Eligible for registration as Biologist in Training

  • Professional Registration

May be Required

  • Master’s degree in environmental science, preferably biological sciences or related field such as environmental science, natural science, hydrology, ecology or botany

Assets

  • Specific experience with environmental assessment

  • Willing to relocate

  • Other languages