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Adaptive Baseline Geotechnical Ltd. (ABG) is an engineering consulting firm based in Elmsdale, Nova Scotia, but focused 100% on northern permafrost engineering in the Canadian Arctic. ABG is the continuation of Canadrill Geotechnical Division, which was founded by Mr. Jason Smith, P.Eng. (Dalhousie alum) back in April 2017. Currently, we are responsible for 95% (or more) of the geotechnical related projects carried out in Nunavut each year, partnering with design teams, contractors and owners across the territory to complete projects of all sizes (public housing to deep see ports). Our position in the market is based on our unique experience and knowledge, and a proven track record of delivering projects in even the most difficult situations. We leverage our expertise to live where we want (Nova Scotia, but other provinces could be accommodated depending on the individual), while enjoying the benefits of working in one of the most interesting, lucrative and loyal markets in Canada.
ABG’s goal with this posting is to meet with and identify several engineers or civil technicians of interest, with the intention of hiring 3 to 5 field engineers (or technicians) for our upcoming season, starting approximately in April or May 2023. The offer may be full-time (no seasonal layoff) or contract (seasonal lay off beginning November or December 2023), depending on the individual and project demand. We are currently experiencing a sharp increase in our workload with several higher end and more complex initiatives/projects kicking off this year.
The role is for a Field Engineer or Field Technician and the rate of pay will be $22.50 to $32.50 per hour depending on the individual and experience, with a planned rotation of 8 weeks on, 2 weeks off for junior staff (0 to 4 years experience) and more of a 50/50 split (i.e. 4 weeks on, 4 weeks off) for intermediate staff (> 4 years experience).
There will be some flexibility to this rotation, as we change out personnel between projects due to flight costs and will accommodate individual commitments when possible. Eventually those individuals that show an interest and aptitude for our style of work may transition to more of a 50/50 (field and office) situation, ultimately becoming primarily office based helping to manage our ever growing work load based on your experience gained in the field.
8 WEEKS ON: Will be paid at 10 hours per day (up to 70 hours per week) from the time you leave home until you return, with overtime (1.5) after 40 hours per week. There is also an option for a $150 per diem to cover your own food, which tends to work out beneficially for you (NOTE: Food is much more expensive in Nunavut.). All travel expenses are paid for by the company (flights, hotels, transportation, etc). Safety gear and work clothing (winter gear as required) will also be provided by the company, it is not your responsibility to outfit yourself for safe work.
2 WEEKS OFF: Will be paid at 8 hours per day (up to 40 hours per week) and should be focused on enjoying friends and family to maintain connections and relax, as the time away can be demanding. (up to $1,000 per week). There is also potential for us to fly you in/out of airports across the country for your time off (within reason) to visit family or friends if desired, this can be discussed at the time of flight booking. In general, you would be entitled to a full 2 weeks off after completing 8 weeks on.
ABG commits to supporting your development and we intend to offer the right individual an opportunity to travel and explore the Arctic, while gaining rare experience that should at the very least help your resume for future job searches, or more hopefully result in an offer to join our team. We will attempt to expose you to all aspects of our operation during your time with us.
ABG currently consists of 4 senior engineers, 4 intermediate and up to 5 or 7 juniors at peak season. Typical projects involve large scale earthwork (landfills, reservoirs, dams, etc.), foundation design and installation (piles, footings, thermosyphons, etc.) and aggregate resource development. Our engineers spend the field season travelling throughout Nunavut, connecting with local people and contractors to carry out challenging projects, all while gaining invaluable experiences (personal and professional) and exploring parts of Canada most will never have the opportunity to visit. A typical field season begins in March and ends in November, with the winter months focused on compiling information we gather during our field work and updating our many models and processes in the office.
Nunavut has 25 communities split into three distinct regions, all underlain by continuous permafrost and isolated from the rest of Canada (and each other). Each community is only accessible by air (sometimes small aircraft) and annual sealift, with populations ranging from 300 to 3,000.
The local Inuit remain adept at living on the land, with hunting and fishing key drivers locally. We suggest some internet research into the region and its communities before applying. It is expected that the candidates we meet with will be excited by the opportunity to travel to rarely seen locations and by the opportunity to explore our unique opportunity together. The Arctic truly is a beautiful experience and we look forward to sharing it with you.
Responsibilities
Carrying and use of test equipment involves some effort of a physical nature and our field personnel should not be shy about helping out with piling activities (a bit of general labour, learn the equipment) when onsite for pile monitoring/quality control as this has been a critical part of our bonding with piling crews to affect overall change for both our teams benefit. General responsibilities and experience to be gained will include:
– Geotechnical investigations of permafrost soils
– Subgrade inspection/approval (proof rolls)
– Evaluating and Monitoring aggregate sources and gradations
– Density testing of backfill material
– Concrete and grout sampling/testing
– Monitoring of drilling operations to confirm subsurface conditions
– Preparation of daily field reports
– Conducting daily safety meetings
– Other duties as assigned by manager
Qualifications
Currently reside in Nova Scotia. Degree in Civil Engineer (Canadian university), enrolled in Civil Engineering Program (Canadian university), Civil Engineering Technologist (or enrolled in recognized program). Construction or consulting experience an asset.
Physically capable and willing to get involved with some physical work as the opportunity represents, helping contractor personnel as much as possible toward the greater good, as good people can be difficult to find and it just makes sense for us all to work together. Quicker and better executed projects being better for everyone involved.
