Environmental Specialist

Reference Number: 131-09NSP

Business Unit: Environmental Services

Type of Employment: One year term

Accountabilities:

As part of the NSPI Environmental Services Team, this position is accountable for the provision of environmental services to NSPI’s Power Production and Customer Operations Divisions. You will liaise with internal departments and external regulatory departments/agencies in providing this support across the company.  

You will provide expertise on environmental science related to regulatory (environmental) approvals and monitoring programs, environmental management systems (EMS) and other environmental programs across the company.

Responsibilities include:

• Participation in implementation of the Power Production EMS;
• Development and implementation of environmental monitoring, studies, and compliance programs undertaken at hydro systems, thermal stations and transmission & distribution lines;
• Supporting the environmental aspects of operational, construction, and maintenance activities; specifically in the development and implementation of plans to mitigate and/or minimize the environmental effects of undertakings across NSPI;
• Supporting the environmental studies and regulatory approvals in relation to design, construction, and commissioning of new generation, renewable development and transmission line projects;
• Data analyses and preparation of reports for regulatory departments/agencies in support of the Hydro Relicensing Program, significant construction & maintenance activities, and other environmental assessments and programs;
• Preparation and presentation of environmental information for public presentations relating to the Project approvals and the Hydro Relicensing Program, significant construction & maintenance activities, and other environmental assessments and programs;
• Providing technical expertise on water quality, instream flow assessments, fish populations, fish passage and reservoir management for the protection of aquatic habitat.

You will assist with the supervision and auditing of environmental consultant services associated with field programs to ensure that consultants comply with NSPI regulations. 

You will share in the accountability for the continual improvement of NSPI’s environmental performance in attaining environmental objectives and targets for the integration of environmental considerations into all business decisions. 

This position does include periods of extensive travel and field work, often in remote locations of Nova Scotia. 

You will be responsible for your personal safety and that of your co-workers by observing all Occupational Health and Safety Rules and Regulations, and the Nova Scotia Power Safety Program.

Skills, Capabilities and Experience: 

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor of Science degree, preferably in Biology/Ecology or equivalent qualifications and experience. A minimum of 7 years of related experience is required; experience specific in the electricity industry is an asset. Required technical knowledge areas include: environmental assessment; environmental legislation and regulations; environmental management systems (ISO 14001); fish biology, aquatic ecology, limnology, hydrology, instream flow methodologies, and fish passage.  

You are a team player with excellent interpersonal skills as well as effective oral and written communication skills, and have the ability to lead in a team environment. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, problem solving and decision-making capabilities are key. A valid driver’s license and travel throughout the province would be required.

You are a highly professional, self motivated individual with the demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects in a changing environment. You are a team player with excellent interpersonal skills and strong oral and written communication skills. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, problem solving and decision making capabilities are also key.

If this position is of interest to you please visit the career section of our website for further information at www.nspower.ca.