We are hiring an Aquatics Biologist
Competition number NCCAB112720
The NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) is accepting applications for the position of Aquatics Biologist. This position will work in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and would ideally be located in one of our southern Labrador offices.
NunatuKavut means “our ancient land” and refers to the territory of Inuit who reside primarily in south and central Labrador. NCC is a rights-based governing body that represents NunatuKavut Inuit. We are a dynamic, fast-paced and growing team that strives to meet the priorities, interests and needs of our people. Our governing vision demonstrates commitment to community and culture as we seek “to govern ourselves, provide and care for one another, our families and our communities while nurturing our relationship with our lands and waters.” We foster an open and transparent working environment which incorporates Inuit values of caring, fairness, respect, accountability and teamwork.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Implement and communicate results of NunatuKavut aquatic management plans.
- Support the ENR department to identify project ideas that respond to aquatic and ocean needs and assist in the planning and development of proposals for these projects.
- Promote traditional fishing and practice conservation amongst NCC members, communities, and with external partners.
- Assist with the development and implementation of related Aquatics and Oceans proposals and contribution agreements. , including for budgets and cash flow projections.
- Draft correspondence and project reports as well as other administrative matters.
- Collect and analyze data from aquatic country food harvest within NunatuKavut.
- Conduct research-based studies on aquatics and oceans within NunatuKavut while working collaboratively with NCC’s staff and communities:
- Monitor salmon, char, cod, and other fish including collecting and analyzing DNA samples as well as documenting DNA and behavioural observations.
- Provide risk/hazard/vulnerability assessments.
- Analyze and estimate the population of interested fish species within NunatuKavut.
- Study various aspects of fish species such as their genetic structures, their interrelationship with other aquatic and terrestrial species.
- Collect biological specimens to carry out potential studies.
- Conduct acoustic and tagging surveys and inventories.
- Work on preventive measures to prevent the diseases and health issues in plants and animals.
- Document research results and their observations; and (but not limited too)
- Purchase, maintain, and prepare equipment for fieldwork.
- Contribute to the development of environment-related programs, such climate change and forestry plans within Nunatukavut; and
- Other duties as required by the ENR department.
Skills and Qualifications
- Experience working with Indigenous organizations, various levels of government and other non- governmental organizations;
- Excellent technical writing skills. Experience writing applications and technical reports on aquatics and oceans based on Indigenous Knowledge and western science describing monitoring methods, collection, management, sharing and reporting of monitoring data;
- Strong communication (written and oral) skills to present and connect with various audiences (e.g. boards and councils, Indigenous organizations, government agencies, etc.);
- Ability to interpret complex biological concepts (such as the biology and habitat requirements of NunatuKavut’s fish species and aquatics) and communicate study results to technical and non-technical audiences;
- Ability to work with data in multiple forms (tables, graphs, maps, GPS, etc.) as well as ability to use Microsoft Office software (Word and Excel required);
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities;
- Ability to produce detailed documentation of field conditions, measurements, and observations.
- Ability to work with required sampling equipment, supplies and environmental samples in adverse conditions (e.g., terrain, weather);
- Strong time management skills, with the ability to simultaneously work on multiple tasks/projects and meet project deadlines;
- Excellent interpersonal skills, team-oriented, and be able to function as part of a multi-disciplinary team as well as ability to work independently demonstrating self-motivation and initiative;
- Ability to think strategically in developing novel approaches to aquatic and oceans management and mitigation is an asset; and
- Working knowledge of provincial and federal environmental legislation and regulatory requirements is an asset.
Education and Experience Requirements
- Minimum of a B.Sc in biological sciences or related field;
- Three to six years of related experience (or an acceptable combination of education and experience) in designing and implementing environmental monitoring and research programs which utilize Indigenous Knowledge and Western Science, including field-based biological sampling, analysis and reporting and providing advice within a regulatory regime
Conditions of Employment
- Lifting of heavy objects and travel within and outside NunatuKavut by various modes of transportation, including fixed and rotary winged aircraft, snowmobiles and boats may be required;
- Ability to work away from home for extended periods, often in a field environment with exposure to adverse weather conditions. Hours of work may include evenings and weekends; and
- A driver’s license and ability to provide a clean, three-year driving abstract.
Preference may be given to qualified members of NunatuKavut Community Council.
How to Apply
Please submit resume and cover letter and three references to:
Chelsea Dyson, HR Coordinator
NunatuKavut Community Council
Email: jobs@nunatukavut.ca Fax: 709-896-0594
In Person: 200 Kelland Drive, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador
Application deadline is November 30, 2020
Please note that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.