Avian Biologist

Overview

Natural Resource Solutions Inc. (NRSI) provides high quality and cost-effective natural environment consulting solutions to clients across Canada. We are a respected niche biological consulting firm with offices in Waterloo, Ontario and Calgary, Alberta. Our team of ecologists offer expertise in the identification and management of significant and sensitive natural species and their habitats.

At NRSI we value our people and strive to provide a healthy work-life balance and a safe work environment. We offer a competitive hourly wage, the opportunity to work with other highly experienced staff, and career growth opportunities by promoting from within our organization.

NRSI is looking for one or more qualified and experienced Avian Biologists to join NRSI’s team. The primary focus of this position will be the completion of breeding bird surveys, as well as other avian surveys (migration, behavior, etc.) at a variety of project sites across Ontario. The biologist(s) will also assist with other field and office projects work, including other ecological field surveys.

There may be other opportunities throughout the contract to lead and/or assist with other survey types if the applicant demonstrates skills in the completion of other biological surveys. The primary duties and responsibilities for this role include:

• Conducting avian surveys across Ontario using the applicable bird survey protocols and methodologies
• Traveling to remote locations in Ontario to conduct field surveys; several multi-week trips may be required
• Taking well-organized and detailed field notes
• Communicating frequently and as required with project managers, other field staff, and clients
• Following all applicable Health and Safety requirements
• Occasional assistance with other field- or office-related tasks

Education: A post-secondary degree or diploma, or high school diploma.

Technical Biological Skills

• Bird Identification: Strong visual and auditory identification skills for Southern and Central Ontario breeding birds
• Survey Methodologies: Proven experience with point counts, area searches, and documenting breeding evidence. Experience with OBBA or Marsh Monitoring protocols is a strong asset
• Data & Reporting: Experience in technical report writing and data analysis, with a high degree of accuracy in field note maintenance
• Additional Ecology
  
  Experience:
  
  Experience with ELC, herpetofauna, mammals, or insect surveys is preferred

• Working Conditions: Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, navigating difficult terrain, and dealing with insects/seasonal temperatures
• Availability: Flexible schedule required for early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays
• Travel: Willingness to travel for multi-day trips, including camping in remote locations
• Transportation: Valid driver’s license is required. Candidates must be over 18 (to drive rentals) and have access to a personal vehicle

• Work Style: Capable of working consistently and independently, as well as collaborating in a team
• Safety: Must hold a valid Standard First Aid and CPR Certificate
• Software: Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel)

• Experience operating small watercraft and/or all terrain vehicles is an asset

Final date to receive applications: March 15, 2026. Interviews will begin as suitable applicants are found.

Application Requirements: A cover letter addressed to Daniel Riley is required with all applications.

Position

Start Date:

May 18, 2026 (an earlier start date may be considered if prospective hire is available).

Position End Date: August 28, 2026

Location: Waterloo, ON. Applicants located outside of the Waterloo area will be considered, depending on experience and ability to travel for field work.

Salary: $23.50-$26.00 per hour commensurate on experience

Estimated hours per week, including authorized travel: 40 hours (may be variable outside breeding bird season from May 24 – July 10)

Vacancy Status: This posting is for an existing vacancy

NRSI is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. NRSI is also committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in our recruitment process, employment, services, programs, and activities.

To request a reasonable accommodation, contact our HR Department at .