Lead Biologist – Native Pollinator Initiative – Wildlife Preservation Canada

Position Summary:
The Lead Biologist will provide overall coordination for Wildlife Preservation Canada’s (WPC’s) Native Pollinator Initiative (NPI). The position will focus on conservation breeding, population monitoring, research, and community science for at-risk native bumble bee species in Ontario, as well as multi-partner collaborations such as BumbleBeeWatch.org. This includes the direct management of the bumble bee conservation program: hiring and supervision of employees, ensuring implementation of core activities of field surveys, captive colony maintenance, research, community science, and partner engagement. Additionally, the Lead Biologist will assist with development of new opportunities to expand recovery activities for other native pollinators across Canada. The Lead Biologist position will initially require being based in Guelph, Ontario.

Primary Responsibilities:
Lead development, implementation, and evaluation of bumble bee species-at-risk (SAR) research and conservation actions in Ontario, and other regions as appropriate. This includes associated surveys and queen collection (e.g., nest searching, collection and transportation of queens, recording of associated ecological data).
Coordinate and conduct surveys for bumble bees in Ontario, including hiring and training of seasonal employees and securing permits and permissions for field site access.
Lead the husbandry of captive bumble bee colonies, including establishment of captive facilities, daily care of colonies, selection and training of staff, and development of protocols in collaboration with facility partners and other experts.
Ensure accurate record-keeping of all data collected by field staff as well as input and/or review and analyze field, conservation rearing, and community science data.
Collaborate with academic partners, new and existing (York University, University of Toronto Scarborough, University of Guelph) to develop, implement, and evaluate applied studies for pollinator conservation with initial focus on bumble bee SAR, and with potential to expand to other pollinator taxa as opportunities arise.
Oversee and support the NPI Outreach Coordinator with development, implementation, and evaluation of small- and large-scale community science programs in Ontario and provide guidance on the development and delivery of similar programs across Canada in the future.
Support WPC’s organizational goals through the development and dissemination of science-based communication and outreach components of the NPI (e.g., conference presentations, peer-reviewed publications, in-person presentations, print materials, online educational materials, traditional and social media).
Develop and strengthen partnerships with organizations across North America, including provincial and federal governments, First Nations, non-profits, industry, landowners, and other stakeholders to increase the impact and scope of pollinator conservation actions.
Provide support for BumbleBeeWatch.org, through review and identification of photo submissions, evaluation, and assistance with development of new features for apps and website updates.
Assist WPC’s Conservation Programs Director with other pollinator programs as required, e.g., Taylor’s checkerspot (British Columbia), mottled duskywing (Ontario).
Support design and preparation of proposals and budgets for grant applications and other fundraising initiatives to fund existing and new pollinator conservation projects and maintain detailed program budgets.
Supervise and mentor employees, interns, and contractors, and assist in the supervision of graduate students from partnering academic institutions.
Write and/or assist with reports for funders, governments, landowners, WPC (for internal and external use), and other audiences as necessary.
Provide knowledgeable input and advice to the Executive Director, Conservation Programs Director, and other WPC staff with respect to potential recovery and research activities and partners for pollinator conservation in Canada.

Qualifications, Skills, Expertise and Qualities Required for this position:
Minimum M.Sc. in relevant field (e.g., Entomology, Biology, Ecology) and 5+ years of applied experience with pollinator conservation.
Experience with and/or extensive knowledge of captive husbandry practices and breeding programs for bumble bees.
Strong existing network and/or networking ability relative to North American pollinator conservation.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience with bumble bee conservation. Experience with other pollinator taxa is an asset, but not a requirement.
Field project and/or staff management experience. Demonstrated ability to lead a team.
Experienced in pollinator population surveys, data management, analysis, and report writing.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience of species at-risk issues.
Ability to write successful grant applications.
Strong oral and written communication skills, including the production and review of scientific and technical documents, outreach materials, and social and traditional media.
Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills, with an ability to multi-task and perform under pressure to meet deadlines.
Strong interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution, facilitation, and fostering smooth relationships with co-workers, partners, field contractors, and volunteers.
Physically fit and with a positive mindset to endure working in rough terrains, variable weather conditions, and with exposure to biting and stinging insects.
Ability to work flexible hours and be away for multiple days at a time, including some weekends and holidays, depending on time of year.
Highly self motivated and resilient in the face of adversity, showing initiative and a willingness to go the extra length to save the planet, one pollinator species at a time.

To apply
Please send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to: jobopportunities@wildlifepreservation.ca . Please submit your application as a single PDF or MS Word file attachment and include in the email subject heading “Lead Biologist – NPI Application”. Please apply ASAP as the position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found (applications will not be considered after January 1st, 2021). We thank you for your interest, however only individuals considered for an interview will be contacted.

[yuzo_related]