Quantitative Aquatic Research Ecologist Great Lakes & Lake Simcoe

Come join the Aquatic Research and Monitoring Section where you can showcase your expertise in aquatic and fisheries science while working on applied research with an emphasis on the Great Lakes and Lake Simcoe.

What can I expect to do in this role?

You will:

• apply established, modern, and novel advanced statistical techniques for the analyses of complex fisheries and ecosystem data
• design scientifically sound sampling protocols and plans for the collection of spatial and temporal fisheries and ecosystem data in large lakes
• develop, program and utilize computer programs for statistical data analyses and simulation modelling
• develop, maintain and utilize databases that involve complex multi-variable aquatic ecosystems and pressures
• provide modelling, analytical and science support and advice
• prepare summaries of research findings such as statistical tables and appendices, graphs and maps
• prepare written internal and external protocols, summaries, and reports, and peer-reviewed publications in the primary scientific literature
• disseminate research results to clients and partners
• provide science transfer and collaboration skills to inform the effective management of Ontario's aquatic resources with an emphasis on the Great Lakes and Lake Simcoe

How do I qualify?

Mandatory requirements:

• You must possess a valid class 'G' driver's license or equivalent as recognized in the Province of Ontario.
• You possess or have the ability to obtain a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card.
• You are able to travel to remote locations frequently and for multiple days.
• You have the physical ability to handle heavy equipment and work under adverse weather conditions.

Technical knowledge:

• You have specialized knowledge of aquatic ecology including, fisheries ecology, population dynamics, life history theory, evolutionary ecology, and Great Lakes ecosystems.
• You have demonstrated knowledge of advanced statistical techniques to analyze aquatic populations, communities, and ecosystems spatially and temporally.
• You have sound knowledge of data analysis, systems design and development, mathematics, simulation-modelling techniques, and programming methods.
• You are familiar with established, new and emerging assessment, monitoring and research technologies to design and implement applied research and monitoring projects for aquatic ecosystems and fisheries.
• You have knowledge of the theory and practices of fisheries management to provide advice.
• You have knowledge of natural resources data management and database design, principles and techniques to analyze ecological data.
• You are familiar with the worker responsibilities as outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations.

Computer and scientific equipment skills:

• You have well-developed computer and data management skills with statistical, computer programming, spreadsheet, database, mapping, word processing, and presentation software.
• You have a demonstrated ability to operate specialized sampling equipment (e.g., hydroacoustic technology, multibeam sonar systems and field computers) used to assess, monitor and research large lake fisheries resources and ecosystems.

Analytical skills:

• You have conceptual, quantitative and analytical scientific skills to develop analytical methods and provide scientific expertise.
• You can analyze ecological data as well as interpret and summarize results.

Interpersonal and communication skills:

• You have strong interpersonal skills to communicate with staff, public, agencies and research collaborators with tact and good judgment.
• You have presentation skills to provide scientific information at an audience appropriate level.
• You have well developed writing techniques to prepare scientific reports, papers and create presentations.

Project management and organizational skills:

• You have demonstrated project management skills to plan tasks and work independently.
• You have organizational skills to manage multiple projects concurrently, solve problems and meet required deadlines.

All external applicants (including former employees of the Ontario Public Service) applying to a competition in a ministry or Commission public body must disclose (either in the cover letter or resume) previous employment with the Ontario Public Service. Disclosure must include positions held, dates of employment and any active restrictions as applicable from being rehired by the Ontario Public Service. Active restrictions can include time and/or ministry-specific restrictions currently in force, and may preclude a former employee from being offered a position with the Ontario Public Service for a specific time period (e.g. one year), or from being offered a position with a specific ministry (either for a pre-determined time period or indefinitely). The circumstances around an employee's exit will be considered prior to an offer of employment.

Remember: The deadline to apply is Monday, April 11, 2016 11:59 pm EDT. Late applications will not be accepted.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.