Agri-Environmental Modeling Assistant - Research Affiliate Program

Update: Update: **AMENDMENT TO CLOSING DATE**

Important messages

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please use the Contact information below to request special accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

Information on accommodation for persons with disabilities

Persons are entitled to participate in the appointment process in the official language of their choice. Applicants are asked to indicate their preferred official language in their application.

Communication for this process will be sent via email. It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure accurate contact information is provided and updated as required. Candidates who apply to this selection process should include an email address that accepts email from unknown users (some email systems block these types of email).

Duties

The work will include analysis of datasets collected from long term field trials across Canada and process-based modelling. The Candidate will primarily be assessing water quality. The candidate will be required to learn and apply the Root Zone Water Quality model in stages of model calibration, validation, and application. This is a complex model which includes detailed water flow in the soil matrix, runoff and mechanistic drainage. The candidate will access agricultural management practices that may reduce water and nutrient loss while increasing or maintaining crop productivity. The candidate will be expected to write reports and present results to AAFC scientists.

Work environment

Work will be done under the supervision of scientists at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa Research and Development Centre. The work will be focused on accessing databases and using a complex computer model thus computers will be used almost exclusively during work hours. Progress updates will be expected.

Positions to be filled: 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

A covering letter in 300 words (maximum) "Describe your experience in managing work load (multiple tasks) in relation to projects and courses in water resource management and highlight how you maintain scientific integrity."

Contact information for 2 references.

A list of the courses you have taken as well as any courses that you are taking now, or that you will be taking this academic year

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

Currently enrolled or eligible to enroll in a PhD program in a recognize post-secondary academic institution with specialization in:
• Bioresource Engineering
• Water resource Engineering

Degree equivalency

Experience in the field of water resource management.

Experience in Agri-environmental modelling of soil systems.

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English essential

Information on language requirements

Knowledge of water resource management (irrigation and drainage), soil hydrology, soil-plant-climate interactions, and agricultural water modelling.

• Teamwork
• Planning and organization
• Interactive communications
• Initiative
• Analytical thinking

Ability to use complex process-based agricultural computer models.

Ability to work with large datasets and analyze results

Ability in the used of basic statistical analysis

Ability to develop and improve modeling methodologies

The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)

Selection may be limited to members of the following Employment Equity groups: Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, women

Information on employment equity

Conditions of employment

Reliability Status security clearance - Each student hired through the Research Affiliate Program (RAP) must meet the security requirements of the position as a condition of employment, and therefore will be asked by the hiring organization to complete security-relevant documents.

Ability and willingness to work long hours using computers (analysis of datasets and computer modelling)

Other information

The Public Service of Canada is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the Canadians we serve. We promote employment equity and encourage you to indicate if you belong to one of the targeted groups when you apply.

Information on employment equity

Applications submitted by email will not be accepted. You must apply on-line through www.jobs.gc.ca.

Persons with disabilities preventing them from applying on-line are asked to contact 1-800-645-5605.

Candidates will be required to pay for their own travel related to assessment and successful candidates will be responsible for obtaining their own living accommodations.

Successful completion of both a RAP work assignment and your educational program may lead to a temporary or permanent federal public service position for which you meet the merit criteria and conditions of employment.

Preference

Preference will be given to Canadian citizens.

We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.