Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

As part of a team of wetland ecologists, the Ecologist Intern will support the establishment of a wetland ecosystem catalogue for Ontario.

Duties / Responsibilities :

Locate and secure wetland data sets from across Ontario.


Collate and integrate wetland data.


Conduct analyses to generate summaries and statistics, and help in the generation of reports.


Work with large complex datasets using database software (e.g. MS Access and Excel) and geographic information system software (e.g. ArcGIS).

Contribute to sound management of scientific information.

Staffing and Licensing :

Valid Class G Driver's Licence or equivalent as recognized by the Province of Ontario.

Knowledge :

Knowledge of biology and ecology including ecological land classification, biodiversity and the natural sciences


Familiar with current natural resource inventory, monitoring and assessment techniques with regard to natural landscapes, and wetland ecosystems

Knowledge of field identification and assessment of biodiversity (ecosystems, flora, and fauna) of Ontario


Understanding of conservation issues, and legislative and planning tools that support the protection of natural heritage values and areas in Ontario

Working knowledge of geographic information systems and mapping


Knowledge of analytical techniques and computer applications in order to analyse data and prepare reports


Knowledge of worker responsibilities as outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations

Skills :

Communication skills, both oral and written to communicate a variety of types of information clearly and concisely to a variety of audiences

Organizational and analytical skills to organize own time and be able to solve problems the information provided


Ability to use GIS technology (ArcMAP) and to input GIS data, digitize and produce reports and maps relating to natural features

Ability to use personal computers including word processing, record keeping, electronic mail and internet software applications.

Freedom of Action :

Job contributes to decision-making about priorities and major tasks in consultation with the Biodiversity and Monitoring Section Wetlands Specialist and Canada Ontario Agreement Senior Policy Advisor Work is reviewed for general accuracy and adequacy

Situations not covered by established methods and practical procedures are referred to the Biodiversity and Monitoring Section Wetlands Specialist and/or Coordinator.