Windsor and Essex County is a vibrant community located in South-Western Ontario. Offering a rich urban community with world class entertainment, art and culture located minutes from an international border with the United States (Detroit, MI) and easy access to rural areas with historical sites, wineries, golf-courses, parklands and extensive trail systems for the outdoor enthusiast.
The Watershed Data Technician (Special Grant Employee) is responsible for inputting, managing and analyzing water quality and quantity data using a SQL Database (WISKI) to support water quality enhancement programs (e.g. ONFARM, Living Lab, etc.), calculating nutrient loads, and development of the Essex Region Phosphorus Management Plan (PMP).
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. The period of this contract is to March 31, 2023 with possible extension(s) based on funding
To Apply:
- Send your resume and cover letter in one document (either Word or PDF format only) by no later than 4:00 pm on Wednesday, October 27, 2021.
- Note the title of the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assists with development and design of water quality projects, monitoring programs and special studies; including the implementation of monitoring programs associated with the ONFARM and Living Lab projects in Wigle Creek.
- Coordinates sampling schedule for ONFARM and Living Lab projects and other water quality programs
- Compiles, manages and analyses water quality and quantity data (i.e. chemical, physical, and biological) including large relational databases using WISKI software with the ultimate goal of calculating nutrient loads. May also include similar tasks for additional data sources (e.g. weather, flora and fauna of terrestrial landscapes).
- Prepares technical reports and information on water quality projects including ONFARM, Living Lab and the Phosphorous Management Plan (PMP). Communicates issues, collects data, and reports on milestones, results and program delivery in accordance with funding agreements.
- Promotes agricultural best management practices through involvement with landowners; and assists with the planning, technical content, and implementation of outreach activities for the promotion and awareness of the Authority’s program and role in the ONFARM and Living Lab projects.
- Interacts and co-operates with all relevant partners particularly in the agricultural sector including producers, retailers, private organizations, federal departments and provincial ministries
- Coordinates stakeholder meetings to collect and disseminate information related to the PMP
- Assists with installation, calibration, use, and troubleshooting of water quality monitoring equipment including field sonde probes, ISCO’s, flow gauges and other monitoring equipment.
- Other related duties as assigned
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- University degree and/or college Diploma in an environmental field with particular emphasis on water quality; MSc is considered an asset
- 2-3 years’ relevant experience
- Strong knowledge of water quality monitoring, equipment and analysis
- Knowledge of stream hydrology, agricultural practices and Best Management Practices
- Well-developed written and oral communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team and with stakeholders
- Proficient with computers and software applications (MS office environment-Word, Excel, Access) including word processing, databases, graphics, internet, and electronic, GIS and WISKI considered an asset
- Ability to effectively use, analyse, and organize information
- Must possess and maintain an MTO Class G Driver’s License in good standing
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Position is based on up to 35 hours per week. Work week schedule may vary throughout the year, including weekends, dependent upon water quality monitoring requirements
- Hazards and Risks: Works with small quantities (25 mL) of concentrated nitric acid, collects samples of water containing E coli and other contaminants. PPE must be worn accordingly. Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds for short distances of up to 500 m. Occasional site visits requiring prolonged standing/walking, negotiating of obstacles, and bending or stooping
- Environmental conditions: Work is often 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. Sampling takes place during all seasons, including winters, wet rain events, and summer seasons. The technician must ensure his/her own safety and perform duties within reason (e.g. sampling during thunderstorms is unsafe and not permitted).
Department: Conservation Services
Union Affiliation: None
Job Status: Special Grant Employee
Hours of Work: Typically, 35 hours per week some weekend/evening work dependent upon water quality monitoring requirements
Posting Added Date: October 14, 2021
Posting Closing Date: October 27, 2021
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: $26.07 (2021 starting rate with scheduled increases)
Grade: NBU/SGE 2
Contact: Nicole Kupnicki, Human Resources Manager
- 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.
- 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 HR 519-562-9088 to make your needs known in advance.
Contract length: 16 months
Application deadline: 2021-10-26
Job Types: Full-time, Contract
Salary: From $26.07 per hour
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
COVID-19 considerations:
As circumstances evolve with Covid-19, this position may involve a combination of working remotely and in-office. Staff in the Conservation Services Department, Water Quality Team are currently working remotely for the majority of the time with scheduled,
Application question(s):
- Do you have proficiency with MSOffice (Word, Excel, Access), GIS and WISKI software?
Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree (required)
Experience:
- water quality monitoring, equipment and analysis: 2 years (required)
- stream hydrology, agricultural and Best Management Practices: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Ontario Class G Driver’s Licence in good standing (required)
