About SYLVIS
SYLVIS is an established residuals management firm committed to providing industry-leading environmental consulting and operational services to a wide range of clients in both the private and public sectors. We are a group of highly experienced professionals working across a variety of technical disciplines pioneering innovative solutions to beneficially use residuals. We have been Making Waste History for more than 35 years. SYLVIS is looking to expand its reach by growing across North America and is looking for employees that approach life with a desire to always learn, evolve, and grow.
Position Description
The Applied Research Scientist will work directly with the President of SYLVIS to plan, execute, and grow SYLVIS's internal applied research program that is foundational to the SYLVIS mission to Make Waste History. SYLVIS projects realize the value of residuals (e.g. biosolids, wood ash, compost, pulp and paper residuals, landfill leachate, etc.) by introducing them back into the environment for ecological and societal benefit. As a self-starter, you will design and execute research that determines if and how best residuals can be used, supporting business growth objectives and keeping SYLVIS at the forefront of pioneering beneficial residuals management. You will be involved in all aspects of research from big picture vision development to hands on field sampling.
Functions and Responsibilities
- Identify key research questions to be addressed with input from qualified professionals, project managers, clients, landowners, and the business development team
- Lead the development of robust experimental designs, data collection, statistical analyses, and reporting functions of the research program
- Implement and integrate applied research experiments within operational projects
- Lead stand alone research projects for clients
- Provide subject matter expertise in soil science, nutrient management, and the value of residuals in SYLVIS's projects
- Work with the marketing, business development, and project teams to leverage research results into value proposition for clients and the environment
- Establish new research partnerships and relationships with external agencies; support and grow existing relationships and partnerships
- Identifying sources of funding for research and development
- Complete documentation and submissions for the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Tax Incentive Program
Qualifications
- Graduate degree (MSc or PhD) in an environmental discipline related to forestry, agriculture, plant science, soil science, biology, or a similar field with a minimum of five years of experience
- Valid Canadian driver's license
Skills and Experience
- Soil science and plant nutrition expertise
- Field sample collection and analyses (soil, water, residuals, vegetation)
- Conducting literature reviews
- Clear communication of scientific information, targeted for the audience
- Development of hypotheses, experimental design, data management, statistical analyses, reporting, and publications
- Demonstrated ability to write proposals and develop project and program budgets
- Experience working with residuals (e.g. biosolids, wood ash, compost, pulp and paper residuals, landfill leachate, etc.) is considered an asset
As a professional you will bring the following qualities to the position:
- A can-do attitude and superior attention to detail and quality,
- Exceptional organization and communication skills,
- A willingness to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions,
- Ability to travel to sites throughout Western Canada
Benefits
SYLVIS is committed to offering best-in-class benefits for its employees and is highly focused on employee satisfaction and retention. Following successful completion of probationary period, benefits available to permanent employees include:
- Annual profit-share program
- Laptop, cell phone and monthly plan
- Life insurance and extended health benefits, including a healthcare spending account of $1,000 per dependent
- Lifestyle spending account - $400 per year to support active living and sustainable behaviours (e.g. fitness memberships, public transit passes, exercise gear)
- Field gear allowance, up to $475 per year
- Professional dues reimbursement for a relevant professional designation
- Professional development support and training opportunities
- Three weeks paid annual leave to start
- 13 paid statutory holidays
- Flexibility to work from home one day per week
- A fun and supportive work environment including all-staff meetings, social activities, and celebrating personal and professional accomplishments
How to Apply
Submit a resume and cover letter via our website at www.sylvis.com/our-company/careers. Two examples of your research work (report, presentation, paper) will be requested from candidates who are contacted.
We are looking to fill this position as soon as a qualified candidate is found. Applications will be reviewed starting June 17, 2024. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.