Water Quality Science, Biology

Position: Specialist, Water Quality Science
Organization: Credit Valley Conservation
Location: Head Office, Mississauga, GTA, Ontario

• Salary Range: $75,217.00 To $87,993.00 Annually
• Posting Closing Date: March 4, 2026
• Vacancy: New
• Hiring for: 1 Full Time Fixed Term Contract Position (35 hours/week)
• Anticipated Start and End Dates: April 6, 2026 To April 2, 2027

Who are we?

Credit Valley Conservation is one of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities dedicated to protecting, restoring and enhancing our local natural environment. We care for the Credit River, its streams and tributaries from the headwaters in Orangeville to the shores of Lake Ontario in Mississauga. We are scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, environmentalists, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. We create connections between people and nature, knowledge and action. We inspire appreciation for the role of nature in keeping people connected, healthy and happy. We’re leaders and explorers. We are professional and we’re inspired. We know our stuff, and we work every day to make a difference.

Who are you?

You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You get up every day and go to work with purpose. You accept that you may not change the world, but you’ll try to make an impact in your corner. You like to partner with skilled people across many professions. It’s as natural for you think about the outdoors as it is to think out of the box. You’re passionate, responsible and approachable. You do what’s right, not just what’s easy. You care, and it shows.

Why work for us?

We offer competitive public sector pay. We have a good employee benefits program. We’re members of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund. We have flexible work hours for many positions. We find time to have fun and celebrate successes. You’ll have free access to our parks and discounts on recreational equipment rentals. You’ll know your co-workers by name and will make fast friends. You’ll like being at work.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Senior Engineer, Water Quality Science, the Specialist will conduct water quality analysis focusing on E. coli and Microbial Source Tracking (MST). The work will combine field sampling, specialized laboratory analysis using Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction (dPCR) technology, complex data analysis, and the preparation of technical reports for both internal and external stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Completion of Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 2 years of professional experience working in an environmental or molecular biology laboratory setting
• Required experience with PCR techniques; direct, hands-on experience using dPCR preferred
• Demonstrated experience with standard microbiological techniques
• Experience with environmental sampling procedures and quality assurance protocols
• Demonstrated experience in communicating results to diverse audiences through presentations and reports, including technical report writing
• Familiarity with relevant local, provincial, or federal water quality regulations and guidelines
• Knowledge and demonstrated experience in statistical analysis principles, techniques and with software packages such as Python, R, or similar
• Proficiency with various computer software and applications, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Valid Class ‘G’ Driver’s License in good standing. The successful applicant will be required to provide a MTO Driver’s Abstract
• Standard first aid and CPR preferred
• Must be willing to work under adverse environmental/weather conditions.

SUMMARY OF MAJOR TASKS

• Collect water quality samples, maintain field equipment and follow standard operating procedures.
• Perform DNA extraction and execute digital PCR assays for E. coli quantification and Microbial Source Tracking markers.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, manage inventory, and ensure strict quality assurance and quality control protocols.
• Process and analyze dPCR data, integrating microbial results with environmental context and maintaining organized databases.
• Conduct statistical analysis on the collected data using Python, R, or other statistical packages
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for diverse stakeholders, translating complex scientific findings for various audiences.
• Other duties and projects as appropriate to the position

To apply for this opportunity, click on the ‘Apply’ button and submit a resume and cover letter in one Word or PDF file, and upload using only the ‘Resume’ option. To view other job opportunities, visit our Jobs page at: https://cvc.ca/jobs/.

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Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005), CVC will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment, selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities. If you require disability – related accommodations, please inform the Human Resources (HR) staff. All personal information is collected under the authority of the municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

ADP’s recruiting platform includes optional AI-driven tools, such as Candidate Relevancy and Profile Relevance. While CVC has access to these features through ADP, CVC does not use or rely on any AI-based screening, scoring, or decision-support tools in its hiring process. All applications are reviewed manually, and all hiring decisions are made by the hiring team.

This position is deemed critical for business continuity.

We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.