Ecologist

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

• 2006 NOC: Biologists (2121.1) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Biologists and Related Scientists (C021) 
• 2011 NOC: Biologists and related scientists (2121) 

Ecologists usually specialize in animal behaviour, botany, marine biology, microbiology, population dynamics, soil science, toxicology, zoology or other disciplines concerned with environmental conservation and management. Often working as part of multidisciplinary teams, ecologists may conduct research studies into:

• how energy flows through ecosystems
• relationships among predators, parasites and prey
• the types and organization of plant communities in the landscape
• the impact of invasive species on native communities
• the effects of human activities like dam construction, oil and gas development, mining and hunting on natural habitats
• the management of fish, wildlife and forestry resources
• the design of reserves and recovery plans for threatened species of plants and animals
• the effects of pollutants discharged into the air by factories or vehicles on natural vegetation and wildlife
• the effects of chemicals released into rivers and lakes on plant and aquatic animals
• the accumulation of contaminants in food webs 
• the restoration of functioning ecosystems
• habitat changes after a fire
• fundamental underlying questions such as what determines population sizes or diet choices, or how nitrogen flows through an ecosystem.

Duties and responsibilities vary from one position to another but, in general, ecologists:

• plan and conduct field research, which involves following rigorous scientific procedures to collect water, soil, plant or animal samples, and count and identify organisms
• use the data they collect or analyze existing data to understand and classify vegetation and landscapes
• use computers to design and manage databases and maintain data, perform statistical analyses of large data sets, model problems and evaluate possible solutions, and develop geographic information systems (GIS) layers and products 
• conduct studies to develop or refine ecological land classifications
• study animals over long periods of time, noting characteristics such as population numbers, life history patterns, behaviour, diet and habitat use
• study and dissect plant and animal specimens in greenhouses and laboratories
• conduct environmental impact assessments
• write proposals and prepare written reports and recommendations
• provide information, make presentations and give talks for schools, clubs and interest groups
• contribute to the development of government policy
• work with the public to develop and implement conservation strategies
• supervise the work of technologists and technicians.

Depending on the nature of their projects, ecologists may work outdoors in locations that may be rugged or remote, or indoors in laboratories and offices. Some ecologists primarily work on computers and use data obtained from other scientists.

Ecologists often work long hours. Some projects require hours of observation or weeks of travel. Others require the use of specialized equipment and techniques.

Ecologists need the following characteristics:

• the ability to learn quickly, think logically and persist in a search for answers to complex questions
• an interest in nature
• the ability to remain objective
• good oral and written communication skills
• the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Some types of field work require considerable physical stamina.

Ecologists should enjoy synthesizing information to develop innovative approaches to problems, using instruments and equipment to perform tasks requiring precision, and supervising research projects.

Ecologists are employed by the following types of organizations:

• provincial and federal governments
• universities and colleges
• research institutions
• conservation organizations
• environmental consulting firms
• large private corporations such as manufacturers of agricultural products, forestry companies, paper manufacturers, and oil and gas companies.

Governments often employ ecologists to complete policy assessments in relation to environmental issues. Many ecologists, particularly those with master's degrees, are involved in identifying gaps in environmental impact assessments and developing recommendations for improvements to meet legislated requirements. Additional experience with legal aspects of environmental biology is an asset for those involved in environmental impact assessments.

Corporations employ ecologists to help safeguard supplies of raw materials, make sure their operations comply with government regulations, and monitor processes and products.

Related summer work experience or volunteer experience is a definite asset when university graduates are looking for work. Entry level jobs often are short-term contract positions.

Applicants who have bachelor's degrees may be hired for non-research positions that involve conducting laboratory tests or inspections, or collecting routine field data. Advancement opportunities are limited for ecologists who only have a bachelor's degree. A doctoral degree usually is required for university and independent research positions, and may be required for advancement to senior management positions.

Ecologists are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2121: Biologists and Related Scientists. In Alberta, 80% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (PDF)
• Public Administration (PDF)
• Health Care and Social Assistance (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Alberta Society of Professional Biologists website: www.aspb.ab.ca

ECO Canada website: www.eco.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.