Species at Risk

About Us

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources - including biodiversity, forests, geological resources, provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Lands and Forestry is responsible for the development, management, conservation and protection of forest, mineral, parks and wildlife resources and the administration of the province's Crown land. Together we are working with Nova Scotians to build a better future through sustainable natural resource management as we all benefit from the natural health and wealth of the province.

The Biodiversity program is responsible for the effective development, implementation and evaluation of programs to conserve and recover Nova Scotia's species-at-risk. As part of this responsibility, the Province has partnered with the federal government to advance an integrated approach to the protection, conservation and recovery of biodiversity, including habitat, species at risk and migratory birds. More specifically, Nova Scotia will assess gaps in effective protection of critical and core habitats for species at risk, will advance species at risk recovery through the development and pilot of threats-based and/ or sector-based plans, will develop guidance to manage the impacts of activities on species and habitats on Crown land, and will explore tools such as stewardship, education, and incentives for private lands.

If you are passionate about the recovery of species-at-risk and conserving biodiversity, this may be the perfect opportunity for you

About Our Opportunity

As the Species at Risk Biologist, you will be responsible for the research, facilitation and development of tools to recover species at risk and to support broader co-benefits for nature. This two-year term position is funded through the Canada-Nova Scotia Nature Agreement.

Primary Accountabilities

In close collaboration with conservation partners, including the Canadian Wildlife Service, researchers, and non-government environmental organizations, you will provide specialized biological and conservation biology expertise, research, communications and coordination for the Canada-Nova Scotia Nature Agreement that supports species-at-risk and migratory birds in Nova Scotia on private and Crown lands.

You will demonstrate independent professional judgement and support in the development and implementation of policies, programs, plans strategies, legislation, and regulations as it pertains to species at risk and migratory birds.

You will maintain communications and facilitate the exchange of information between the Biodiversity Program and project partners. Working collaboratively with partners you will identify and develop opportunities to advance the delivery of projects, track and report on progress. You will provide program support for the alignment and integration of conservation actions across Indigenous organizations, non-government conservation organizations, industry, communities, government departments, recovery teams, landowners and resources users. You will assist in the administration of Contribution Agreements, review reports and deliverables, support associated regulatory processes, and may be responsible for monitoring and contributing to field work.

These positions report to the Manager of Biodiversity.

Qualifications and Experience

This may be the right opportunity for you if you have a Bachelor's Degree (in wildlife biology, environmental science or management) and six years of related experience, or a Master of Science and four years of related experience. Related experience may include botany, wildlife biology, habitat ecology (, wetland biology) and/or conservation biology, but an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

This role requires knowledge of the Nova Scotia conservation context, including species at risk, migratory birds and other species of conservation concern, and the habitats and ecosystems of Nova Scotia. As the successful candidate, you will have expertise in the biological sciences, population ecology, and prior coordination or facilitation experience with the conservation and management of endangered species in collaborative environments. You will also have demonstrated knowledge of the following: threats assessment and mitigation, industry practices and impacts, legislation and policy relating to species at risk and migratory birds, and experience in one or more of the following: species at risk and/or protected species habitat protection, stewardship principles and practices for private lands, research expertise in rare species habitats, and the development of guidance for government and land users.

Proficiency with computers (such as data management, GIS, and office productivity software) and excellent communication skills (written and verbal) are essential. You are highly motivated, flexible, and demonstrate expertise when dealing with complex situations requiring innovative, collaborative and proactive solutions. You have effective organizational, research and analytical skills, as well as planning and multi-tasking skills to schedule and implement initiatives and manage projects with minimal supervision and within deadlines.

Knowledge of or experience in the following is considered an asset: Conservation program design and effectiveness monitoring; budget and/or project management experience; Non-government and government related organizations and programs involved in the conservation, stewardship and management of wildlife species, habitats and ecosystems; Land use conflicts and resolutions processes; Design of communication products; Policy review and regulation development ( status assessment or recovery planning); Ecological experimental design and/or statistical or spatial analysis.

We will assess the above qualifications using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

A master's degree in wildlife biology, environmental science, or management along with 4 years of related experience.

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

Normal work hours will be Monday to Friday, 8:30-4:30 but irregular hours including evenings and weekends maybe required to accommodate meetings, travel and some field work.

A valid Nova Scotia driver's license (minimum Class 5) or equivalent and access to a motor vehicle is essential.

Additional Information

This is a TERM employment opportunity with anticipated end date of March 31, 2026. The appointment status ('term', 'temporary' or 'casual') is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career. Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies. Countless career paths. Department Specific Flexible working schedules. Pay Grade: PR 15 Salary Range: $2,;- $3,;Bi-Weekly

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