Water Quality Technician (SGE) ~22 month contract

The Water Quality Technician (SGE) reports to the Water Quality Scientist and is responsible for supporting the water quality monitoring program throughout the Essex Region. This position installs, utilizes and maintains a variety of field equipment, collects samples, completes corresponding data entry, and provides support in the development of reports, fact sheets and other related documents.

This position is classified as a ‘Special Grant Employee’ as the tasks associated with this position are funded in whole or in part through Federal and Provincial agency funding sources.

To Apply:

Send your resume and cover letter in ONE document (either Word or PDF format only) to careers@erca.org by no later than 4:00 pm on April 30, 2025.
Note the title of the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Collects surface water and groundwater samples for regular weather (routine), wet weather sampling, benthic sampling, and stream flow measurements and other environmental data at sites throughout the region, and prepare samples for laboratory analysis (labeling, storage, transport, chain of custody forms, etc.).
Installs, calibrates, troubleshoots and maintains water quality monitoring equipment, including field sonde probes, automated water samplers, data loggers, flow gauges, groundwater monitoring equipment, sample bottles.
Maintains field data sheets, lab data sheets, compile data records in appropriate databases and perform basic interpretation of water quality data (i.e. chemical, physical, and biological) as required for reporting.
Assists in preparation of technical and “plain language” reports as required.
Interacts and co-operates with partners (i.e. University of Windsor), landowners and Authority staff.
Answers routine questions and provide helpful information to the public, as required, when undertaking sampling in the field.
Performs other related duties and responsibilities consistent with the position, as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Post secondary diploma or degree in Biology, Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Environmental Remediation or other related disciplines deemed acceptable to the employer
6-12 months experience in water resources or ecosystem/environmental assessment or related experience including field work
Proficient with various software applications (SharePoint, Office365- Outlook, Word, Excel, Access, Teams).
Demonstrated ability to problem solve, troubleshoot and test water quality monitoring equipment
Ability to effectively use, analyse, and organize information
Ability to work independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English
Must possess and maintain an MTO Class G Driver’s License in good standing.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Position is up to 35 hours per week based on seasonal demand, with occasional evening and weekend hours required, occasionally on short notice. Typical hours would not exceed 35 hours per week. There is no guarantee of full-time hours and this position may be subject to temporary layoffs from time to time and/or alternate work schedules should business interruptions occur or project funding or scope be reduced or terminated.
Hazards and Risks: Works with small quantities (25 mL) of concentrated nitric acid, collects samples of water containing E coli and other contaminants. Potential risk of falling on steep and slippery banks and drowning as the technician is working in or around water. The technician must ensure their own safety and perform duties within reason. Technician should also be aware of potential exposure to noxious vegetation, and stinging/biting insects, heat and cold. Personal protective equipment must be worn accordingly.
Environmental conditions: Outdoor water quality sampling takes place during all seasons in and around water, including winter, wet rain events, and summer season. Site visits require prolonged standing/walking, negotiating of obstacles, steep and slippery slopes, bending or stooping. Indoor work is performed within a standard office environment, and regularly requires periods of visual and mental concentration of 2 to 4 hours duration, prolonged sitting (and associated physical strain), and accuracy and attention to detail.

Department: Conservation Services

Union Affiliation: None

Job Status: Special Grant Employee (contract is anticipated until March 31, 2027 and may be extended based on extension of funding)

Hours of Work: Typically, 35 hours per week

Posting Added Date: April 14, 2025

Posting Closing Date: April 30, 2025

Posting Closing Time: 4:00 pm

Positions to Fill: One (1)

Progress Status: Receiving Applications

Office Location: 360 Fairview Avenue West, Suite 311, Essex, ON N8M 1Y6

Wage Rate: $23.47 per hour (2025 starting rate with regular, scheduled increases)

Grade: NBULV1

Contact: Nicole Kupnicki, Human Resources Manager

This position offers an OMERS pension, flexible personal paid time off, and a Health Care Spending Account.

ERCA is an equal opportunity employer.
We thank all applicants in advance, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Personal information is collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information & Protection of Privacy Act and will be used for the purpose of this employment opportunity only.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not utilized in the recruitment process to sort, screen or assess potential applicants.
We are pleased to accommodate any individual needs under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If you require accommodation throughout the hiring process, please contact Human Resources at 519-981-4469 to make your needs known in advance.