Avian Biologists for Waterfowl Monitoring

Owl Moon Environmental Inc. (OMEI; www.owlmoon.ca) is seeking highly motivated and experienced avian biologists to conduct waterfowl monitoring in the oil sands region near Fort McMurray, Alberta. This field-based position extends from April 2 to October 31, 2025 (an early May start date may be arranged for university students completing their studies in April 2025).

Biologists will work independently or in a small team recording birds from land-based monitoring locations and by boat within an industrial mine. Biologists will adhere to OMEI safety and industrial site requirements, including government agency and client directives relating to pandemics. We will provide safety training courses (e.g., First Aid, OSSA Common Safety Orientation, Bear Awareness).

Monitoring will require 11-hour days, in a 6 days on/6 days off shift schedule (under an Alberta Hours of Work Averaging Agreement). This position is located in Fort McMurray. Accommodations would be the responsibility of the successful applicants.

Successful candidates would have a Degree or Diploma in Biology or Environmental Science (or be completing their studies in April 2025), or equivalent experience. Experience identifying waterfowl, wading birds, and landbirds is required. Successful candidates must possess a valid Class 5 Driver’s License or equivalent, and be able to provide a clean driving record as demonstrated by a driver’s abstract and a 3-year documented vehicle insurance history from an insurance agency or equivalent insurance history document that qualifies for coverage under OMEI’s vehicle insurance policy. Experience driving a four-wheel drive vehicle under difficult off-road muddy and sandy conditions is also required. Candidates must pass an industrial site pre-access Alcohol & Drug test at the start of employment.

Qualifications include tolerating long field days and sometimes difficult field conditions while maintaining a healthy team atmosphere. Candidates must also demonstrate attention to detail in data recording and excellent time management and communication skills. We are providing a competitive wage, and sick leave of 40 hours (equivalent to 5, 8-hour workdays) throughout employment.

To apply or receive further information, please contact Shirley Zhang (shirley@bestculturesolutions.ca).

Applications must include:

• A cover letter
• Resume
• The name and contact information of three persons as references

Applications will be received until all positions are filled, but no later than March 31, 2025. The entire application process should take approximately 2-3 weeks. Qualified applicants will participate in up to 2 interviews; then, the outcome will be made and communicated with the applicant.

We thank all who apply; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.