Senior Aquatic Biologist / Water Quality Specialist

Vancouver, BC
Permanent
Full-time

2 months ago

My client is a long-established Canadian environmental consulting firm with 30 years of experience, recognized for its deep technical specialization in mining and mining-adjacent projects. Originally founded as a boutique geochemistry practice, the firm has evolved into a highly integrated team of geochemists, hydrogeologists, hydrologists, climate scientists, and aquatic specialists who focus almost exclusively on complex water, geochemistry, and regulatory challenges.My client is seeking a Senior Aquatic Biologist / Water Quality Specialist to take on a senior technical role focused on water quality interpretation, aquatic risk, and mine permitting. Success in this role is measured by the ability to independently interpret water quality model outputs, produce regulator-ready technical deliverables, guide clients through high-scrutiny permitting pathways, and provide credible, strategic advice to both regulators and project teams. This is a core role for a senior professional, with accountability for defensible science, regulatory risk reduction, and continuity of expertise across major mining projects.Remote / WFH / Hybrid: Hybrid, must live in lower mainland VancouverTravel: <5%Salary: $110k - $170k DOE, plus health benefits, RRSP matching, annual performance bonuses (The final salary will reflect the qualifications, relevant experience, expertise, and professional designations that each candidate brings to the role. Individuals who offer additional strengths or bring exceptional value to the team will be considered for compensation beyond the stated range, as our client recognizes and rewards unique contributions.)Role Scope:1. Own Water Quality Interpretation for Major Mining Projects

Independently review and interpret water quality model outputs

Ensure assumptions, inputs, and predictions are:Scientifically defensibleConservative where requiredSuitable for regulatory and effects-assessment useIdentify gaps, unrealistic assumptions, or regulatory risks early2. Produce High-Quality Technical Deliverables

Lead authorship of:

Water quality sections of prediction and modeling reports
Technical assessment reports for effluent discharge permits
Supporting documentation for EA and mine permitting applications
Clearly articulate:

Baseline conditions
Assumptions and uncertainty
Predicted outcomes and implications

3. Guide Aquatic and Regulatory Strategy

Apply aquatic toxicology expertise to evaluate predicted concentrations against:

Provincial and federal aquatic life guidelines
Site-specific benchmarks
Science-based environmental benchmarks
Advise on feasibility and risk of:

Initial Dilution Zones (IDZs)
Mixing zones
Alternative compliance pathways
Provide clear, evidence-based recommendations when proposed approaches are unlikely to be accepted by regulators

4. Support and Shape Aquatic Effects Assessments

Prepare water quality outputs that enable downstream:

Aquatic effects assessments
Regulatory review
Collaborate with external aquatic biology teams while maintaining technical accountability

5. Act as a Senior Client and Regulator Interface

Participate in meetings with:

Mining clients
Engineers and mine planners
Regulators and water boards
Clearly explain:

Model results
Risks and uncertainties
Mitigation and management options
Provide strategic advice that bridges science, engineering, and regulatory expectations

Ongoing Responsibilities:

Develop and review management plans, including:

Selenium management plans
Nitrogen or ammonia management plans
Trigger–Action–Response Plans (TARPs)
Integrate water quality interpretation with:

Geochemistry
Hydrology and hydrogeology
Climate inputs
Review work prepared by others and flag:

Technical weaknesses
Over-optimistic assumptions
Regulatory red flags
Operate as a Qualified Professional (QP) under the BC Mine Health, Safety & Reclamation Code

Requirements:

10+ years of relevant experience
Strong background in:

Aquatic toxicology
Water quality interpretation
Mine permitting and environmental assessment
Demonstrated experience reviewing water quality model results
Eligibility to act as a Qualified Professional (QP) in BC
Strong technical writing skills and regulatory awareness
B.Sc. acceptable with substantial, directly relevant experience,M.Sc. preferred

To Apply:To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume describing your experience and salary expectations in confidence via our careers site to see all open positions and apply visit our website:or
via email: . Please indicate “Senior Aquatic Specialist” in your subject line.

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