Environmental Specialist (Archaeology)

At YVR, we are boldly pursuing a greener and more resilient future and have committed to eliminating emissions from our operations, becoming net-zero by 2030. We are driven by our purpose to serve our community and the economy that supports it. The Climate and Environment department is responsible for executing YVR’s Environmental Management plan, including reducing our carbon emissions, increasing waste diversion, conserving water and protecting the ecosystem on Sea Island. We also execute YVR’s Noise Management Plan, balancing the need for safe, convenient 24-hour travel with enjoyable urban living.

Position overview 

The Environmental Specialist with expertise in archaeology at YVR plays a pivotal role that encompasses multiple facets. This specialist is responsible for developing and implementing the airport's archaeological program, conducting environmental assessments, and providing expert professional advice and direction in archaeological resource planning and management to support all development activities at the Vancouver International Airport. In addition to overseeing all archaeological fieldwork, including excavation and other ground-disturbing activities, this role also involves monitoring and assessing the environmental impact of these activities. The Environmental Specialist acts as a liaison with various stakeholder groups, fostering communication and collaboration to ensure the sustainable development of the airport while preserving its archaeological heritage and minimizing its environmental footprint.

Key responsibilities include:  

• Providing expert professional advice and direction in archaeological resource planning and management for all development activities on Sea Island.
• Conducting audits, such as field inspections, assessments of areas, and excavations of archaeological sites, particularly at the outset of projects or in the event of unexpected discoveries.
• Preparing and assisting in the completion of cultural resources survey reports, data entry, impact assessments, and permitting activities for assigned projects on Sea Island when needed as well as coordinating archaeology projects to ensure regulatory and environmental compliance and efficient resource management, including scheduling, staff allocation, technical approach development, and the involvement of subcontractors.
• Develops and implements YVR’s Archaeological Program, outlining objectives and timelines.
• Represent the Airport Authority and speak on its behalf at public meetings, information sessions and conferences as well as consult with industry, tenants, public, government, other Airport Authority departments and others on environmental and archaeological initiatives.
• Supervision of 1-2 staff or students assisting on program support, and several professional consultants at a time in which the Specialist would have direct program supervision.

Key qualifications include:

• Completion of a University Degree in Archaeology or Anthropology with a specialization in archeology plus registration or eligibility for registration as a Professional Archaeologist.
• 7 years’ related experience in archaeological, environmental resource management preferably related to infrastructure, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. 
• Proven experience working with local First Nations groups including Urban Indigenous communities and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh).
• Experience liaising with provincial regulatory bodies, municipal staff, and other levels of government.
• A current and valid BC driver’s license is a requirement.
• Strong written/verbal communication and presentation skills along with strong conflict resolution, mediation and negotiation skills.

This position is open to both Vancouver Airport Authority employees and external applicants. Previous job performance will be taken into consideration for all internal candidates that apply for this position.

As part of our recruitment process, short-listed candidates may be required to participate in an assessment process.

Salary Range : $91,587 to $119,696 per annum, based on 37.5-hour work week. This is individually tailored to reflect your unique experience, qualifications and internal equity.

At YVR, your work experience goes beyond the paycheck. We support your personal and professional development, well-being, and a thriving work culture with generous vacation days, extensive health benefits, retirement savings matching, wellness programs, community engagement, commuting support, and continuous learning opportunities. Learn more at https://careers.yvr.ca/benefits.

Please note that availability may vary based on employment type and is subject to certain eligibility requirements and potential changes by YVR.

YVR is more than just an airport. We connect our beautiful province and all it has to offer to the world. We are all leaders and trailblazers for change and innovation, so no matter the department or team you’re a part of, the work you do matters.

At YVR, we are flexible in everything we do. We will work together to find ways to deliver customer excellence that helps us all thrive.

Whatever your background and wherever you’re from, you belong at YVR. If you have any questions about accessibility or require any assistance applying, please reach out at careers@yvr.ca.