Field Ornithologist

Environmental Markham, Ontario


Description

Your role at GEI.
GEI Consultants Inc. is seeking an on-call Field Ornithologist to support our natural heritage practice on projects including land development, linear and non-linear infrastructure, ecological restoration and construction support. The Field Ornithologist would work collaboratively with the natural heritage team and other technical disciplines in Ontario to assist with field work including breeding bird surveys and nest sweeps, as well as field data management.
 
GEI’s natural heritage practice includes expertise in terrestrial and aquatic ecology, species at risk, landscape architecture, climate change, Indigenous engagement, environmental engineering, hydrogeology, and fluvial geomorphology. 
 
Essential Responsibilities & Duties:
Collaborate and coordinate with all GEI disciplines to provide field ornithological support, including: 
  • Read and understand methodology for surveys, data and communication responsibilities prior to beginning of work. Inventory personal equipment and communicate resource needs to Bird Survey coordinator.
  • Work with Bird Survey coordinator to plan and implement breeding bird studies; 
  • Complete bird nest sweeps in advance of tree removals or landscape alterations; 
  • Work closely with natural heritage team to provide results from field studies and interpretation with respect to observations of note. Communicate results to project managers promptly and comprehensively.
    Minimum Qualifications
    • Knowledge and understanding of approaches to breeding bird surveying methods and/or ornithological assessments such as nest sweeps. 
    • Ability to identify the avifaunal guilds of Ontario, particularly knowledge of all likely species by sound; knowledge of their breeding niches in Ontario. Well-rounded in natural history an advantage. 
    • Proficient with MS Office 365 (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint); ability to use ArcGIS FieldMaps and generate mapping of results.  
    • Comfortable working outdoors for extended periods during all weather conditions; early morning work hours.  Potentially able to book and utilize hotel accommodations if necessary.
    • Possess a valid driver’s license. Ability to travel independently to study sites.
    We are GEI. 
     
    Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.  
     
    We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges.  
     
    With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here.
     
    In 2023, GEI merged with GM BluePlan, an Ontario-based engineering, management, and technology consulting company. The merger adds GM BluePlan’s nationally recognized expertise in asset management and infrastructure planning to the GEI family, furthering our growth and expansion in Canada.  
    Employee-owned. Employee-focused.  
    As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more.  Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs – we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded – which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI’s career site here.
     
    GEI’s Total Rewards Package Includes 
    • Market-Competitive Compensation 
    • Hybrid Work Schedules and Cell Phone Stipend 
    • Rewards and Recognition 
    • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 
    • And More… 
    GEI is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, Aboriginal/Indigenous status or any other factors considered discriminatory. If you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, we will work with you to meet your needs.