Environmental Biologist

• Plan, conduct, and monitor environmental projects to ensure that the mine is operating responsibly in compliance with federal and provincial regulatory requirements and environmental protection acts and guidelines
• Develop new technologies and innovative processes and procedures to ensure that mining is conducted in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly manner
• Lead and manage environmental assessments to protect groundwater, fisheries, wildlife, and other natural and aquatic resources from the effects of mining
• Conduct investigation, field studies and environmental monitoring of mining operations on water, plant and animal life, and overall ecosystems in accordance with accepted inventory collection guidelines (RIC)
• Plan, organize and conduct field surveys including wetland delineation, habitat assessment, native plants, and other ecological studies
• Collect, prepare and analyze samples of water, soil, and plant and animal population including field water, benthos and soil sampling at contaminated sites
• Apply scientific tools, statistical techniques and computer technologies to collect, analyze and research data
• Prepare environmental and compliance assessment reports and technical correspondence for internal stakeholders and regulatory authorities
• Supervise technicians, field crews and other biologists and work with other inter-disciplinary project teams
• Provide technical support to Project Managers for the Contaminated Site Management practice on natural resources damages, ecological and human health risk assessment tasks

Environmental Biologists are paid on an annual basis. Depending on factors such as the location of the mine and the type of mineral or metal produced, annual salaries range from $72,000 - $88,000 (CostMine, 2014). In addition, Environmental Biologists often receive other benefits.

In general, people are drawn to a career in the mining industry for the rewarding work, as well as the opportunity to apply their skills in the workplace. The compensation is attractive as is the structured work schedule which allows for personal pursuits and professional development.

People who are attracted to working as an Environmental Biologist share a deep concern for the environment and sustainability. They like scientific investigation and are interested in field assignments and being outdoors. They also enjoy conducting desk research, analyzing data and creating technical reports. They are committed to environmental protection and like to support mining companies in environmental stewardship.

Each year, MiHR researches the needs of the mining industry to hire Environmental Biologists. Based on 2015’s forecast, we are providing the following assessment of the Job Prospects in mining as well as an evaluation applicability of these skills in other sectors. Together, these measures will help future job seekers to make informed decisions about potential careers, based on the opportunities in the mining industry.

Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.

As an Environmental Biologist, you will be based in an office or laboratory on or near the mine site. You will spend a considerable amount of time conducting surveys and fieldwork in, and around, the mine site. You may conduct on-site assessments and travel long distances to collect samples. When conducting fieldwork, you may need to drive on radio-controlled resource roads. Fieldwork is conducted in all types of environmental conditions, within bodies of water (including rivers, and streams) and you may handle toxic or dangerous substances and/or organisms.

Safety is the top priority in the mining industry and employers take every precaution to create a safe workplace. All mine employees observe strict health and safety rules and wear personal protective equipment (e.g. safety glasses, respirator, steel-toed boots, hard hats, ear protection, etc.). This equipment also reduces the risks that come with exposure to various environmental conditions, extreme temperatures and hazards.

Working hours vary considerably from mine to mine. You might have standard weekday working hours or shift work that involves evening and/or weekend work. Overtime is generally not required but you may have opportunities to work overtime in return for extra compensation.

Some mines are located near communities, which would enable you to live at home and commute to work. These mining communities tend to be close-knit, with strong friendships forming among co-workers and their families. Because these communities are often small towns, they provide wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and hiking.

Many mines are situated in remote areas and require most employees to live in a mining camp. In these mines, employees usually work on a “fly-in, fly-out” schedule. When on-site, all of your living expenses would be covered, including meals. Trained chefs and kitchen staff generally prepare meals and some camps provide accommodations for dietary restrictions and preferences.

Some camps are fairly basic, while others are well-equipped with gym, recreation, and internet facilities. Many camps provide a variety of training courses including language, yoga and First Aid. Fishing and hiking may or may not be permitted, depending on local regulations, licence requirements, and environmental considerations. Firearms are not permitted in mining camps.

Common traits that successful Environmental Biologist share are:

• Ability to conduct statistical analysis
• Ability to visualize completed projects
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team
• Adaptable
• Analytical
• Behaves in professional manner
• Conscientious
• Critical thinker
• Demonstrates strong work ethics
• Detailed-oriented
• Have a deep level of respect for, and understanding of, safety procedures, environmental legislation and regulations
• Organized
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Strong computer skills
• Technical writing skills
• Values safety, health and a positive working environment
• Works well with minimal supervision

Many of these traits can be developed. If you are interested in following this career path, first determine your strengths and weaknesses, and set goals in order to develop the traits you need to succeed.

Many employers want to help job seekers build a successful and fulfilling career. Here are some ways that the mining industry may support you:

• Offer job placements, training and mentoring
• Welcome applicants with experience in other industries and countries
• Have incentives to attract women and Aboriginal peoples to mining education, training and employment
• Offer parental leave, housing incentives, or flexible schedules
• Provide professional development programs to support you and to develop career progression options

Note: this table reflects what is required at the time of hire. The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science
• Six to eight years of experience in environmental assessment projects and consulting experience in mining or in similar industries such as oil and gas (pipeline and transmission lines) and power/utility sector and small/large hydroelectric projects
• Hands-on experience with environmental assessment, impact surveys, field studies of endangered species and/or wetland delineation projects
• Working knowledge of industry-specific statistical and analytical computer software
• Working knowledge of, and experience with, federal, provincial and local workplace health and safety and environmentallegislations, rules, regulations and reporting processes and procedures as they apply to mining
• Valid Class 5 driver’s licence
• Ability and willingness to conduct fieldwork in all types of environmental conditions and harsh terrain as well as periodic overnight travel
• Physical stamina for fieldwork
• Must be able to pass a medical test
• Must be able to pass a drug test
• Willingness to work in a diverse environment
• Proficiency in language of operation

Regional Requirements

• Eligible for registration as Biologist in Training
• Professional Registration

May be Required

• Master’s degree in environmental science, preferable biological sciences or a closely related field such as environmental science, natural science, hydrology, ecology or botany

Assets

• Specific experience with environmental assessment
• Willingness to relocate
• Other languages