Job Specification
Position Title:
Aquatic Research Assistant Biologist
Job Code:
14021 - Biologist 1
Purpose of Position :
Under the direct supervision of Aquatic Research Scientists, assist with aquatic research, monitoring and development by conducting field and lab work on Ontario rivers and lakes, reviewing published literature, managing data, performing statistical analyses and modeling, writing scientific reports and providing written and oral briefings to scientists, partners, and senior managers.
Duties / Responsibilities :
1. Assist in conducting field and laboratory research on rivers and lakes across Ontario by operating and maintaining vehicles and boats, and hydrology, limnology and fisheries sampling equipment in the field and lab.
2. Processing and analyzing field samples in the laboratory by measuring fish physical attributes, preparing and shipping fish samples for subsequent external laboratory analyses such as stable isotope and chemical analyses.
3. Assist in the preparation and summarization of background scientific information by conducting computer literature searches and compiling references.
4. Assist in the development of ecological and hydrological models by managing and maintaining databases, and conducting data summaries and analyses.
5. Support the transfer of science by preparing written reports and oral presentations of findings.
6. Managers have the right to assign additional duties.
NOTE: The incumbent shall, while in the workplace, conduct themselves in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and any workplace practices as directed by their immediate supervisor.
Staffing and Licencing :
• Valid Class G Driver's Licence or equivalent as recognized by the Province of Ontario.
• Valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card or higher certification (or ability to obtain one).
• Ability to travel to remote locations frequently and for multiple days.
• Physical ability to handle heavy equipment and work under adverse weather conditions.
Knowledge :
• Knowledge of aquatic biology/ecology, hydrology, and fisheries science and management principles and practices in order to assist in the delivery of research program data collection, analysis and reporting.
• Knowledge of hydrology, limnology, and fisheries sampling techniques,and monitoring and assessment methods in order to conduct field and lab research on rivers and lakes across Ontario.
• Knowledge of statistical methods and tools for the analysis of ecological (biological, chemical, and physical) data in order to manage, process and analyze scientific data, develop ecological and hydrological models in support of field and lab research.
• Knowledge of sound data management principles to assist in the compilation of databases/data analysis in order to management, process and analyze scientific data.
• Knowledge of safe working practices in field and laboratory settings and worker responsibilities under the OH&S Act.
Skills :
• Experience using databases to enter, manage, query, and manipulate scientific data from several data sources and often complex in its nature.
• Analytical skills and experience working with ecological data, including statistical analyses and modeling in order to prepare scientific data summaries, analyze field and lab data, and support the development of ecological models.
• Experience working in the field in rivers and lakes in order to operate specialized sampling equipment (e.g. electrofishing gear, nets, limnological and hydrological sampling equipment).
• Ability to operate motorized boats and a basic understanding of their maintenance and navigation in order to participate in the delivery of field research programs.
• Ability to use personal computers and standard office software (e.g. MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint, Access) to manage scientific data and to prepare written reports and presentations.
• Good written communication skills in order to provide input and assist in writing scientific papers and/or reports.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal and oral communication skills to manage multiple projects, solve problems, and work with other staff and partners in a collaborative science environment.
• Project management skills to assist in the development of project terms of reference and establish and meet required deliverables with the delivery of field and lab research activities and projects.
Freedom of Action :
Position works under the direction of research scientists. Work is performed in accordance with established methods and practical procedures. Position makes routine decisions about priorities and major tasks in consultation with supervisor. Work is reviewed for accuracy and adequacy. Situations not covered by established methods and practical procedures are referred to supervisor.