BIO R - Aquatic Plant Specialist

The Team

You'll be part of a close-knit team of three within a larger group of 15 at WLRS, where collaboration and respect for diverse perspectives drive the work. This established team partners with Land Officers, marine biologists, policy analysts, and federal agencies to permit aquatic plant aquaculture and wild harvest, advance reconciliation with First Nations, and safeguard natural resources. The team values equity and inclusion, supports one another, and takes pride in tackling a variety of activities—from permitting to policy to biology—while making a real impact on stewardship and sustainability.

As an Aquatic Plant Specialist with WLRS, you review applications for Crown land and aquatic plant culture licences, and help shape new policy for this emerging industry. Your work enables sustainable aquaculture, educates the public on best practices, and supports reconciliation with First Nations while protecting marine ecosystems. This is a unique opportunity to combine science, permitting, and policy to make a real impact on stewardship and the future of aquatic resources.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in biological sciences or related field.
• Registered (or immediately eligible for registration) as a Registered Professional Biologist (RPBio) in BC with the College of Applied Biology (CAB).
  
  Note:
  
  immediately eligible is defined as being able to transfer a current membership to the CAB within six months of employment
• Related experience (or an acceptable combination of education and experience), including field-based biological sampling, analysis and reporting, and providing advice within a regulatory regime.
• Experience assessing and monitoring natural resources.

Preference may be given for one or more of the following:

• Degree in marine biology.
• Experience conducting public consultation processes dealing with environmental management issues.
• Experience in negotiating/mediating solutions and consulting with stakeholders in natural resource management.
• Experience in working/consulting with First Nations on natural resource projects.
• Experience interpreting and applying natural resource management legislation and policy.
• Scientific knowledge of aquatic plants.

For questions regarding this position, please contact

This position can be based out of any of the location(s) listed above.
This is a temporary opportunity until 02/28/2027. This position may be extended or become permanent.
Flexible work options are available; this position may be able to work up to 2 or more days at home per week subject to an approved telework agreement.
An eligibility list may be established to fill future temporary and permanent vacancies.
A Criminal Record Check (CRC) will be required.
Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment.

The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our team and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

We are committed to ensuring that reasonable accommodations are available throughout the hiring process, including the assessment and selection stages. Please email the individual or contact listed on the posting if you require an accommodation to fully participate in the hiring process.

Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is available to Indigenous (First Nations [status or non-status], Inuit or Métis) applicants originating from the land now known as Canada, seeking work or already employed in the BC Public Service. Indigenous applicants can contact this service for personalized guidance on the BC Public Service hiring process including job applications and interviews.

The BC Public Service is an award-winning employer and offers employees competitive benefits, amazing learning opportunities and a chance to engage in rewarding work with exciting career development opportunities. For more information, please see What We Offer.

Your resume and/or cover letter must clearly show that you meet the education and experience…