Environmental Scientist I - Metro Vancouver

Position Title: Environmental Scientist I

Position Status: Full-Time Temporary (This position to last not later than August 14, 2026)
Department: Liquid Waste Services
Employee Group: Teamsters Local 31
Location: 4515 Central Boulevard, Burnaby
Salary Range/ Wage Rate: PG T24 $3,077.63 - $3,634.43 bi-weekly

Our Liquid Waste Services Department is seeking an Environmental Scientist I who will be responsible for assisting with the execution of boat-based field programs, review and management of laboratory data, analysis of environmental data including the development of script codes (i.e., MatLab), as well as presenting results in monitoring program reports and Powerpoint presentations. You will be working with a small team of environmental professionals to implement these projects (i.e., collect, interpret, and report on various biological monitoring programs) and special studies. These projects pertain to the discharge of liquid waste into the local marine and freshwater environment and include the use of oceanographic, water quality, sediment quality, and biological community data to understand the fate and effects of Metro Vancouver discharges and to inform future wastewater treatment plant upgrades and ensure regulatory compliance.

You are: a problem solver equally excited about and proficient at field work, and analysis and reporting of the environmental and oceanographic data collected; a self-motivated team player who understands the challenges of field work and complex data sets and produces high quality results.

This role:

• Monitors the day to day operations of assigned projects; provides direction and oversight of private contractors; reviews practices for conformance to specifications; ensures that relevant monitoring commitments outlined in the District’s Liquid Waste Management Plan are met; certifies contractors' invoices and follows up on any noted identified discrepancies or problems; follows up with contractors to ensure adherence to project schedules and that project deliverables are met.
• Assists senior staff with the implementation of environmental monitoring programs; coordinates with contractors to arrange work schedules, sampling protocols and related procedures, participates in site inspections and other field work as required; provides assistance to internal contacts as required.
• Collects wastewater and/or receiving environment samples, evaluates and analyzes environmental monitoring data including biological community composition, water column profiles and time series data using script code based scientific computing software such as MatLab; validates and interprets results submitted by others, prepares reports as required; sets up, operates, maintains and calibrates technical equipment/scientific instrumentation as required by project demands (e.g., water and sediment grab samplers, water column profilers, scientific sensors and environmental data loggers).
• Liaises with various internal and external contacts and government agencies on environmental protocols, data requirements and regulatory program requirements.
• Performs related work as required.

To be successful, you have:

• A recognized University Bachelor of Science degree in Oceanography, Biology, Chemistry or Environmental Science and sound related experience OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Considerable knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques used in conducting environmental studies related to liquid waste discharges into the receiving environment.
• Considerable knowledge of research and analytical principles (including handling and analysis of bulk oceanographic and environmental data sets), practices, procedures, methods and techniques as these relate to (environmental monitoring programs including physical, chemical and biological oceanography).
• Sound knowledge of accepted quality control principles, procedures and methods related to the work performed.
• Sound knowledge of current regulations and policies governing the work performed.
• Ability to perform research and analysis in technical data related to wastewater quality and environmental impact of wastewater discharges under direction.
• Ability to review, conduct/prepare and maintain statistical analyses and comprehensive technical reports.
• Ability to perform field work including sample collection, processing, handling and delivery of collected samples of various media and to keep appropriate records of same.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of internal and external contacts and to coordinate components of work projects involving internal and external agencies. This may involve working overtime or weekends or at different Metro Vancouver sites to meet operational needs.
• Ability to oversee and monitor the work of private contractors.
• Skill in the use and maintenance of environmental and oceanographic sampling and computing equipment and instruments.
• Valid B.C. Driver's licence.

Our Vision:

Metro Vancouver embraces collaboration and innovation in providing sustainable regional services that contribute to a livable and resilient region and a healthy natural environment for current and future generations.

Metro Vancouver employees proudly serve the region and demonstrate the behaviours and attributes of six leadership competencies: Accountability, Adaptability, Building and Nurturing Relationships, Communication, Continuous Learning, and Strategic Thinking and Action.

At Metro Vancouver, we are committed to cultivating a diverse, safe, equitable, and inclusive work environment for all. We strive to attract and retain a talented, diverse workforce that is reflective of the region we serve. If an accommodation is required during the recruitment and selection process, please contact careers@metrovancouver.org for support. Learn more about our commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion here .

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