Overview
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The Watershed Monitoring Assistant reports to the Watershed Services Specialist and is responsible for assisting with the monitoring, collecting and compiling of water resources data throughout the Lower Trent Conservation Watershed. This position is a seasonal contract (~May through August) with 40 hours per week with the possibility of evening or weekend scheduled hours.
KEY DUTIES:
1. Prepare for and complete monthly surface water quality sampling as part of the Provincial Water Quality Monitoring Network (PWQMN) and the Lower Trent Conservation Surface Water Monitoring Program.
2. Collect benthic macroinvertebrates using the Ontario Benthos Biomonitoring Network (OBBN) protocol.
3. Perform in-stream baseflow measurements and collect stream temperature data throughout the watershed region using various techniques.
4. Assist with groundwater monitoring as part of the Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network (PGMN).
5. Calibration and maintenance of scientific/ field equipment.
6. Compile and organize water resources data within a database.
7. Undertake other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
– Currently enrolled in or completion of post-secondary education with experience in Environmental Sciences, Ecosystem Management, Fish and Wildlife, Biology, Ecology, Geography or a related field.
– Experience in collecting benthic macroinvertebrates and the ability to identify benthos unaided or with a microscope (OBBN Certification an asset).
– Must be able to work outdoors and in potentially adverse environmental conditions (for example, adverse weather and uneven terrain).
– Ability to stand, sit, walk for long periods of time and lift, carry or otherwise move objects of approximately 22 kg.
– Excellent organizational skills to set priorities and react to changing program needs.
– Ability to work with minimal supervision when required.
– Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
– Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office and ArcGIS applications.
– Valid Ontario “G” Driver’s License in good standing such that the license is not expired, suspended, or revoked, and all requirements for driving in Ontario have been met.
– To be eligible for this position; candidates must meet the funding source (for example, Canada Summer Jobs) criteria.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
– Two positions available
– Duration: 16 weeks
– Hourly rate: $18.50/hour
– Hours of work: 40 hours per week
– Proposed start date: May 4, 2026
– To be eligible, you must be between 15 and 30 years of age at the beginning of the employment period; be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment; and, have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.
COME WORK WITH US!
– We offer competitive wages and are members of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund.
– We are dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive and equitable work environment.
– You will work with staff that are creative, talented and solutions-focused.
– We value the professional development and wellness of our employees.
– You’ll have free access to most of the province’s conservation areas.
HOW TO APPLY:
Email your cover letter and resume (a single Word or PDF file preferred – no links please) clearly marked “Watershed Monitoring Assistant” by February 20, 2026 at 11:59pm local time to:
Email: information@LTC.on.ca
Attention: Massimo Narini, Watershed Services Specialist
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We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.
Lower Trent Conservation is an equal opportunity employer in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 and the Ontario Human Rights Code. Lower Trent Conservation will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment, selection, and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities.
Personal information provided is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Lower Trent Conservation does not use artificial intelligence to screen or assess candidates.