Aquatic Environmental Technician

The employee will be the primary contributor to a research project investigating the abundance and distribution of microplastics in a rural headwater lake catchment (Harp Lake, Huntsville, Ontario, Canada). The employee will routinely collect and analyze a wide range of environmental samples, including lake water, inflows, outflows, sediment, soil, and atmospheric deposition, for microplastics. These samples will be processed and analyzed to determine particle abundance, colour, shape, size, and polymer composition. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop one of the first field‑based microplastic particle budgets at the catchment scale. Most existing microplastic budgets are derived from models or extrapolated data, limiting our understanding of microplastic transport, sources, and sinks in real ecosystems. This work will directly address this gap by generating empirical data across multiple environmental compartments.

The employee’s research will offer novel insight into microplastic distribution, pathways, and fate in freshwater systems, enabling estimation of fluxes and storage across the catchment. These findings will contribute directly to national research priorities outlined in Canada’s Plastic Science Agenda and support the goals of the Zero Plastic Waste Initiative.

The employee will be responsible for the design, execution, and communication of the field‑based microplastic study. Specific duties will include but are not limited to:

• Routine field sampling from lake, inflow and outflow streams, soil, sediment, snow, ice and atmospheric deposition from Harp Lake and its surrounding catchment
• Laboratory processing of samples for microplastic identification and quantification
• Characterization of particles by shape, colour, size and polymer composition using microscopy and spectroscopy techniques
• Field data management, quality control and assurance, and database maintenance
• Interpretation of results and preparation of scientific outputs, including at least one peer‑reviewed manuscript to be submitted to a journal

This position will involve significant fieldwork in varying seasonal conditions and consistent laboratory analysis throughout the tenure.

The employee must have relevant experience in environmental field sampling and laboratory analysis. Familiarity with microplastic research methods, spectroscopy, and particle classification is an asset. The successful candidate must be capable of conducting rigorous independent research and managing data workflows.

Key skills include:

• Strong background in aquatic and/or environmental science
• Experience with environmental sampling techniques
• Ability to operate analytical tools (e.g., microscopy, FTIR, etc.)
• Strong data interpretation and communication skills
• Attention to detail and adherence to quality control and assurance standards

Given that the employee would be the lead researcher conducting the project described above, this position is best suited for a candidate holding a graduate degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in environmental science, aquatic ecology, chemistry, or a closely related field. To conduct their research safely and effectively, the employee will require the following certifications:

• Valid G driver’s license
• Workplace Hazardous Safety Materials Information System (WHMIS) training

Job Conditions

• Travelling may be required.
• Work on weekends may be required.
• Working in outdoors in various weather conditions may be required.

Qualifications

• Minimum experience : 1-2 years
• Minimum educational level : Master Degree

Project Learning Tree Canada
1306 Wellington Street West, Suite 400
Ottawa, ON, K1Y 3B2