The Fisheries Biologist position is a 2-year term based in Cochrane or Sundre, Alberta reporting to West Fraser's Senior Biologist. As part of our Corporate Woodlands Team, you will be a key contributor to integrating fish and wildlife habitat conservation goals with sustainable forest management activities.

This term position has the unique and exciting role of supporting Fisheries Act and SARA compliant operations in Alberta Woodlands. Successful candidates will have a strong background in project management and will function as a program advisor for senior woodlands staff.

General description

Primarily focused on the Fisheries Act (Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) regulatory requirements as well as Species At Risk Act (SARA) requirements for forestry operations, the position will be responsible for developing internal management and procedures to ensure temporary forestry roads and woodlands operations are completed in accordance with these requirements and other provincial regulations.

You'll Do:

• Provide expert advice as a Professional Biologist and/or Qualified Aquatic Environment Specialist (QAES) to guide forestry operations.
• Develop, update and train Woodlands staff and contractors on current and emerging best management practices for healthy aquatic ecosystems and protection of key species, engaging with contractors and service providers for course content creation and delivery.
• Support improvements in operations processes to drive operational excellence regarding fish values.
• Working with corporate and divisional woodlands teams, lead the creation and updating of standard work procedures, and management supports for forestry activities in and near water and wetlands.
• Support development of external communications as required (correspondence with regulator, consultation documents, maps, meeting materials as needed).
• Participate in internal investigations of fisheries occurrences and non-conformances.
• Support public consultation and Indigenous engagement related to the fisheries file.
• Support management of environmental consultants working on fisheries projects.
• Conduct technical review of consultant deliverables.

You have:

• A passion for sustainable resource management and developing on-the-ground solutions with a team of talented professionals.
• A Master's Degree in a Wildlife Ecology program or similar field with 2 to 3 years of profession experience in natural resource management or wildlife management.
• Familiarity with Federal and Provincial legislation and their application in integrated land management planning.
• Familiarity with forestry operations in Western Canada.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting scientific research for application in natural resource management and conducting applied research.
• Registered or eligible as a Professional Biologist (P. Biol.) in Alberta (Alberta Society of Professional Biologists).
• Significant field work during non-frozen conditions is expected. Field work may require working in inclement weather at remote locations.
• Applicants must have a valid driver's license and be prepared to travel highway and bush roads.
• Applicants with experience and safety certificates will be given preference.
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Basic GIS skills is essential. Some understanding of geospatial analytics is preferred.
• At times, work schedules may be irregular due to operational timelines or environmental conditions. Applicants should have a demonstrated ability to manage their time well.

Your Workplace Location:

• Cochrane: The Cochrane Division is located in Cochrane Alberta. The area offers year-round recreational activities, outdoor pursuits, and access to Calgary within 15 minutes. Our mill and forest operations are integral to the community, providing economic stability to employees and families.
• Sundre: Sundre is located approximately one-hour northwest of Calgary and two hours from Banff, Offering unlimited outdoor recreational opportunities in the foothills of the Rockies, a good hospital and schools, and an affordable lifestyle. To learn more, visit the Town of Sundre website at sundre.com

About Us:

We make renewable, wood-based building products for the world, contributing to a more sustainable future. Today, West Fraser is one of the world's largest producers of sustainable wood-based building products, with more than 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. From responsibly sourced and sustainably managed forest resources, West Fraser produces lumber, engineered wood products (oriented strand board, laminated veneer lumber, medium-density fibreboard, plywood, and particleboard), pulp, newsprint, wood chips, other residuals, and renewable energy. West Fraser's products are used in home construction, repair and remodelling, industrial applications, papers, tissue, and boxes.

What makes us stand out is our people-first approach. We value internal growth and continuous learning. Join us, and you'll enjoy competitive pay, great benefits, and an excellent pension plan, all in a supportive environment where your voice matters.

Diversity:

At West Fraser, we strongly believe promoting diversity and inclusion is essential to our success. Our commitment to creating inclusive workplaces is reflected in our core values, and we constantly strive to foster a culture that values and respects every individual's unique background and perspective. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to be a part of a team dedicated to shaping a brighter future by embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity. Join our team at West Fraser and help us build a more diverse and inclusive community.

Sustainability:

West Fraser is fully committed to sustainable forest management as defined in our environmental policy, which is reflected in every aspect of our work. We adopt new technologies and innovations to create exceptional building materials. Wood products are a natural, renewable, recyclable, and environmentally sustainable choice for consumers who prioritize sustainability.

Sustainability Report | West Fraser

Learn more about us!

Discover West Fraser in Western Canada (youtube.com)

What's it like to work in Forestry at West Fraser? Shayna's story (youtube.com)