Research Biologist, Eastern Loggerhead Shrike Recovery

Position:                     Research Biologist

Project:                       Eastern Loggerhead Shrike Recovery

Location:                    Guelph ON, with the option to work remotely; some travel required throughout southern Ontario

Type of Position:       Full time (37.5 hrs/wk), temporary (11 months); covering maternity leave

Rate of Pay:               $17-19/hr, dependent on experience, plus 4% vacation pay

Anticipated Start:      3 January 2023

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Wildlife Preservation Canada (WPC) is seeking an experienced biologist to assist with implementation of the Eastern Loggerhead Shrike (LOSH) Recovery Program in Ontario. The Loggerhead Shrike is critically endangered in Canada with fewer than 70 breeding individuals found annually over the last decade. Since 2003, WPC has been coordinating the Eastern Loggerhead Shrike Recovery Program, which is a multi-faceted program that includes wild population monitoring, captive breeding and release of juveniles, habitat stewardship, and public outreach/education. Recent work has also focused on using modelling to predict where high quality habitat exists for the species in Ontario. This position will assist in all aspects of the core program, and will also take a lead role in updating existing habitat modelling for the species in Ontario, and subsequently conducting GIS analysis to identify priority areas for stewardship. This position will give the candidate diverse experience in the breadth of work associated with species at-risk recovery programs.

Work will be largely office-based, with periodic travel required in the spring and summer to support field teams in southern Ontario.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to the Lead Biologist, the contract biologist will assist with all aspects of project management for the Loggerhead Shrike Recovery Program. Specific duties will include:

• Assisting with production of summary reports for funding and permitting agencies, and other groups as required
• Assisting with the writing of funding applications as opportunities arise
• Assisting with the hiring, training, and managing of seasonal staff
• Data entry and analysis, and writing of associated reports and/or manuscripts
• Developing GIS mapping of shrike habitat from existing data
• Supporting the Lead Biologist in activities related to the conservation-breeding program, including transfer of birds between sites, and banding of juveniles prior to release
• Supporting the Lead Biologist in collaborations with University partners to coordinate research projects
• Supporting the science communication and outreach components of the Loggerhead Shrike Recovery Program, including creating content for social media, writing blog posts, and assisting with print media as requested
• Effective and timely communication with program staff and partners
• Additional tasks as required

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Strong interest in biology, conservation, and fieldwork, with at least a post-secondary degree or diploma in a relevant discipline
• Experience supervising field staff and/or managing field research projects
• Strong organizational skills.
• Strong oral and written and communication skills, including writing for various audiences (including scientific and general public).
• Strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to maintain positive relationships a variety of stakeholders
• Experience with GIS and data analysis software (e.g. ArcGIS, R)
• A valid driver’s license is required, as is access to a vehicle for the duration of the contract.
• Ability to work professionally and safely in variable weather conditions, and with minimal supervision.

ASSET SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

•  Completion of a graduate degree in a biologically-related field, or equivalent level of knowledge/experience
• Experience developing Species Distribution Models
• Familiarity with grassland birds, and the ability to identify the majority of eastern grassland species by sight and sound
• Previous bird handling and/or banding experience is an asset, as is prior experience with animal care/captive breeding.
• Science communication skills, including virtual and in-person presentations
• Knowledge of Ontario’s network of conservation organizations

ELIGIBILITY

This position may be funded through government youth employment initiatives which require candidates to be:

• 30 years of age or younger at the beginning of the employment period
• Hold a post-secondary degree or diploma in a relevant discipline
• A Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person on whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
• Legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial legislation and regulations
  Please indicated in your application if you meet these criteria.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Saving endangered species is strengthened by and requires contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, heritage, knowledge, experiences, and identities. WPC values the diversity of the people we employ and that we work with. We strive to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in our workplace. We are committed to selecting and developing employees to create a diverse, inclusive, and equitable organization and therefore encourage applications from all qualified individuals.

TO APPLY

To apply please send a cover letter and resume to: Hazel Wheeler, Lead Biologist – Eastern Loggerhead Shrike Recovery, hazel@wildlifepreservation.ca. Please submit your application as a single PDF or MS word file and include the email subject heading “Research Biologist Application”. Applications will be assessed as they are submitted, and the positions will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are found. Applications will not be considered after midnight (EST) October 30, 2022.

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