Job Description

Position Details:

Current Rate of Pay:

Min = $61.22/hr, Max = $70.97/hr

Employment type:

Permanent Full-time

Hours of work:

35 hrs/week

Work location:

Head office

Division:

Policy Planning

Business unit:

Planning Ecology

Travel:

5%

Hybrid Work:

Yes

Existing Vacancy:

Yes

About TRCA:

With more than 60 years of experience, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is one of 36 Conservation Authorities in Ontario, created to safeguard and enhance the health and well-being of watershed communities through the protection and restoration of the natural environment and the ecological services the environment provides.



TRCA is considered the provincial leader in conserving, restoring, and managing natural resources to advance safe and sustainable development.



To apply to this posting, click on the "Apply" icon. Please submit your resume and cover letter in one PDF or Word file prior to 11:59 pm on March 21, 2025.

How you will contribute as part of the TRCA team:

The Senior Planning Ecologist provides extensive senior level knowledge and experience in aquatic and terrestrial natural heritage and ecosystem sciences performing advanced level technical reviews and advice on applications to ensure TRCA policy, regulations and technical recommendations and requirements are addressed through the planning and permitting process. This position represents TRCA with all levels of government, agencies and private industry dealing with complex matters, inclusive of file reviews and tribunals, and collaborating with clients in support of organizational goals and business needs.

Major Responsibilities:

Reviews and understands complex reports and construction plans submitted as part of the planning, permit and environmental assessment process Provides clear, concise technical advice, in accordance with prescribed delivery standards, to development and environmental assessment planners to ensure compliance with the Authority's programs, policies and regulation requirements Works collaboratively, providing senior level technical support, to planning, technical and senior staff, during site visits and meetings so that technical guidance provided to proponents and their consultants is in keeping with the Authority's programs, policies and regulations Identifies regulated features such as watercourses and wetlands and delineate (stake) the limits of features in the field Participates as an expert in Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) and other hearings, tribunals and proceedings that may be required as part of a dispute or legal action regarding planning or permit applications Provides ecological interpretation of aquatic and terrestrial natural heritage information and provide technical assistance to enforcement staff and internal staff implementing erosion, ecological restoration and TRCA land management projects Leads a team of staff and ensures that team members understand expectations; communicates schedule, tasks and discusses priorities of items Supports onboarding and provides on the job training and support as needed for individuals; also identifies any gaps in or potential improvement areas for training, development, process, resources, or procedures Supports a culture of workplace equity and inclusion that celebrates diversity In collaboration with Human Resources: Participates in team recruitment, selection and hiring of talent Manages individual employee performance and development Recommends compensation performance adjustments Recommends individuals for promotions/transfers Ensures staff/volunteers/contractors, as applicable, comply with health & safety policies, and other TRCA policies, as applicable in various work environments

What will you need to succeed:

Education (degree/diploma/certifications/licenses)

University degree in Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Sciences, or a related field Valid Ontario Class G2 driver's license

Experience

5+ years of performing the relevant major responsibilities/duties and tasks associated with the role 2+ years of progressive managerial, supervisory or project management experience

Knowledge/Skill/Ability - Competencies

Able to comprehend documentation that is technical or scientific in nature, skilled in reviewing, understanding and writing technical reports and drawings Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as a team member to coach staff and work with stakeholders (internally and externally) and negotiate project variance/timelines; ability to deal tactfully and courteously with stakeholders, public officials Knowledge of best management practices, and up-to-date knowledge of mitigation and controls, as well as safe work procedures Influential communicator able to facilitate discussions between parties with different perspectives of competing interests and resolve conflicts Proficiency in MS Office 365 including online software such as MS Teams and SharePoint)

What TRCA has to offer you:

As part of a progressive team you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact to preserving and protecting nature, while maintaining a balance between the natural environment and built environment. Working with experts within our field, you will join a team of colleagues that are committed to TRCA's core values by demonstrating the following behaviours; integrity, collaboration, accountability, respect, and excellence (icare).

You will be part of a diverse and inclusive organization that:

Makes a positive difference in the communities we serve. Fosters high performance and collaborative teams. Provides continuous learning and development opportunities. Offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits program (including Defined Benefit Pension Plan - OMERS/OTPP). Pregnancy & Parental Leave Top-Up Program. Provides unique TRCA Perks. Provides flexible work arrangements. Offers potential for career growth and advancement.

While the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) thanks all applicants for their interest, only those under consideration will be contacted for interviews. Please be advised that successful incumbent(s) may be required to undergo a vulnerable sector screening and/or driver's abstract check as a part of the final step in the hiring process.



TRCA is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Our goal is to attract, develop and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, allowing us to benefit from a wide variety of experiences and perspectives. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, and TRCA Policies, accommodation will be provided at any point throughout the hiring process, provided the candidate makes their accommodation needs known to the TRCA. We welcome applications from all qualified persons.



Personal information you provide through the TRCA recruitment, selection, and onboarding process is collected under the authority of the Conservation Authorities Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. C.27. Collection of this personal information is necessary for the proper administration of this recruitment process for employment and volunteer positions with TRCA. Personal information is protected from disclosure pursuant to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Any questions regarding this collection activity should be directed to the Manager of Records and Information, 5 Shoreham Drive, Toronto, ON, M3N 1S4, (437) 880 2308.