Free For You: Polar Bear Biologist Position in Nunavut

The Department of Environment is looking for a Polar Bear Biologist I to be located in the community of Igloolik in Nunavut. Under the direction of the Wildlife Biologist II - Polar Bears - this biologist works to plan, develop, implement and report on polar bear research and management initiatives. This may include leading the field component of research initiatives, and undertaking independent initiatives as directed by the Wildlife Biologist II - Polar Bears.

The Polar Bear Biologist I will be responsible for carrying out comprehensive assignments delegated by the Wildlife Biologist II in support of research programs and management initiatives led by the latter. The incumbent may also carry out independent projects, as directed by the Wildlife Biologist II - Polar Bears. The incumbent may, under specific circumstances and at the direction of the Polar Bear Biologist II, act or speak on behalf of the biologist in conducting research, consultations or public and scientific communications. The incumbent will be responsible for management of field logistics and routine program administration.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate has a Master of Science in Biology, Wildlife Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Environmental Sciences or a related field with extensive knowledge of wildlife research, applied research and management, and field experience and land skills or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology, Wildlife Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Environmental Sciences or related field and 2 years of direct experience that includes a combination of wildlife research and management skills, field experience and land skills; or Technical Diploma in Renewable Resources and 3 years directly-related experience that includes a combination of wildlife research and management skills, field experience and land skills.
The ideal candidate has one year experience in staff supervision, knowledge of traditional and historical Inuit harvesting practices and the perspective of Nunavummiut towards wildlife harvesting.
The candidate has adequate skills to administer large budgets and the ability to estimate study costs.
The Wildlife Biologist I has extensive land and scientific skills (e.g., research design, analyses), the ability to maintain and fix equipment (e.g., generators, snow machines, ATVs, camp stoves, and research electronics), and the skillset to multitask and maintain tight deadlines. Communication skills, both in written and oral form are expected to be above average.
Ability to communicate in Inuktitut is an asset.

Equivalencies consisting of a combination of education, knowledge, skills and abilities equal to the formal education and experience requirements will be considered.

Salary:

This position is included in the Nunavut Employees Union and has a starting salary of $83,499.00 per annum, plus a Northern Allowance of $22,579.00 per annum.

REFERENCE: 13-501703 Closing Date: January 2, 2015 (Midnight local time) STAFF HOUSING IS AVAILABLE

The Government of Nunavut is committed to creating a more representative workforce so it can better understand and serve the needs of Nunavummiut. Priority will be given to Nunavut Land Claims Beneficiaries.

Candidates must clearly identify their eligibility in order to receive priority consideration under the Nunavut Priority Hiring Policy.

Employment in some positions requires an acceptable criminal record check. Possession of a criminal record will not necessarily disqualify candidates from further consideration.

Job descriptions may be obtained by fax, email or on the website. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.