Who are we?
Credit Valley Conservation is one of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities dedicated to protecting, restoring and enhancing our local natural environment. We care for the Credit River, its streams and tributaries from the headwaters in Orangeville to the shores of Lake Ontario in Mississauga. We are scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, environmentalists, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. We create connections between people and nature, knowledge and action. We inspire appreciation for the role of nature in keeping people connected, healthy and happy. We’re leaders and explorers. We are professional and we’re inspired. We know our stuff, and we work every day to make a difference.
Who are you?
You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You get up every day and go to work with purpose. You accept that you may not change the world, but you’ll try to make an impact in your corner. You like to partner with skilled people across many professions. It’s as natural for you think about the outdoors as it is to think out of the box. You’re passionate, responsible and approachable. You do what’s right, not just what’s easy. You care, and it shows.
Why work for us?
We offer competitive public sector pay. We have a good employee benefits program. We’re members of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund. We have flexible work hours for many positions. We find time to have fun and celebrate successes. You’ll have free access to our parks and discounts on recreational equipment rentals. You’ll know your co-workers by name and will make fast friends. You’ll like being at work.
Summary of Functions
Reporting to the Manager, Planning Ecology, this position is responsible for helping to implement CVC’s environmental policies and guidelines, providing analysis and ecological support for development related programs. In addition, this position works on interdisciplinary teams of professionals to provide direction on development related matters pertaining to natural heritage system planning as they relate to development applications, and Regulation applications, including input for the Environmental Assessment Program.
Eligibility Requirements
- University degree in Physical Geography, Ecology, or related field
- Post-secondary diploma in ecological restoration or related program would be considered an asset
- 2 years’ experience in a similar role related to major responsibilities
- Working knowledge of the Conservation Authority Act and Regulations is preferred
- Working knowledge of other related provincial and federal environmental legislation and protocols would be considered an asset
- Knowledgeable with the principles of watershed planning, natural heritage system planning, and natural resource protection
- Knowledge of Ontario Wetland Evaluation System and training in the Ecological Land Classification System for Southern Ontario would be an asset
- Knowledge of fish and aquatic ecosystems would be an asset
- Ability to read and interpret concept plans, drawings and orthophotography
- Experience with MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Project PowerPoint)
- Strong problem solving, analytical, negotiation, organization, and facilitation skills
- Excellent teamwork and customer service skills, including the ability to work respectfully and inclusively with diverse stakeholders
- Able to work in a collaborative work environment with a passion for sharing knowledge and ideas with others
- Strong written and verbal communication skills to explain rules and to assist in writing reports and guidelines
Summary of Major Tasks
Plan and Permit Review
- Review and provide comments on technical reports, drawings, and documents and provide technical ecological comments
- Review applications submitted, and provide technical comments in response based on interpretation and applications of legislation and policies related to ecology/hazard matters
- Coordinate internal technical review of development applications and provide written response based on technical recommendations
- Conduct site visits to identify and assess site characteristics and constraints on development; establish physical natural features for protection in the field (feature staking)
- Provide technical advice for consideration by planning staff or member municipalities and applicants during pre-consultation meetings on planning matters related to CVC policies regarding natural hazards protection
- Review and provide comments on developments that require permits; Represent CVC’s interests through the review process
- Provide comments and revisions of planning development based on CVC’s policies from an ecological perspective
Program Implementation
- Assist with special projects assigned through the CVC/Region of Peel EA funding arrangement
- Assist in conducting research in the preparation of ecological guidance material related to departmental and/or Authority interests
Program Assistance
- Provide review and assistance in program development including report or guideline development
- Review and provide technical ecological comments or assist Planning Ecologist(s) in providing technical comments on permit applications for the benefit of the Region of Peel