Chathumi de Silva
Ecosystem Scientist Ii Environmental Program Officer Pc-02 @Parks Canada
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WORK HISTORY
Ecosystem Scientist Ii Environmental Program Officer Pc-02 @Parks Canada
Gatineau, QC, CA
As an Ecosystem Scientist at the National Office, I provide technical expertise to field units to support environmental regulatory compliance for operations such as petroleum storage tank systems (STS). At the national level, I lead internal audits of STS infrastructure (e.g, completing audit checklists, documenting deficiencies, identifying technical issues, and reviewing emergency response plans). I develop and review key regulatory documents (e.g, emergency response plans, product transfer assessments, leak detection inspection records), evaluate STS design documentation (e.g, as-builts, specifications, design plans), and deliver audit reports with recommendations aligned with environmental regulations and codes (e.g, CEPA NFCC, CCME). I use internal and external databases (e.g, FIRSTS), collaborate with internal stakeholders (e.g, fire safety engineers) and external partners (e.g, compliance team), and support STS analyses (e.g, reviewing and approving soil sampling reports). I also developed and continue to enhance an Excel-based tool to identify applicable regulatory requirements and track compliance based on system characteristics.Beyond STS, I support broader environmental initiatives nationally, including hazardous materials (e.g, in-house audits, internal inventories), integrated pest management (IPM)(e.g, reviewing and approving records, supporting internal tracking), and contaminated sites (e.g, reviewing Phase I and II ESA reports for FCSAP projects). Since March 2025, I’ve also been providing support to the Jasper Field Unit’s Impact Assessment Team with 2024 wildfire recovery efforts by reviewing post-demolition sampling documentation (e.g, waste characterization, confirmatory soil sampling), liaising with leaseholders, contractors, and consultants, and approving soil clearance permits related to wildfire-related demolitions.
EDUCATION
Carleton University
Bachelor's degree
University of Ottawa
Masters of Science Biology
ABOUT CHATHUMI DE SILVA
I am a dedicated scientist with a multidisciplinary background spanning toxicology research, environmental consulting, and regulatory compliance. As a toxicology researcher, I focused on assessing plant health and soil quality using advanced assays and chemical analysis techniques. Collaborating with leading scientists from the University of Ottawa and Environment Canada, I contributed to projects that balanced industrial needs and indigenous community values, developing tailored solutions grounded in rigorous science. This role sharpened my expertise in environmental assessment and strengthened my ability to manage complex projects while fostering meaningful relationships with diverse stakeholders. In my consulting career, I applied my scientific expertise to conduct environmental assessments, prepare detailed reports for industrial clients and indigenous communities, and oversee projects from initiation to completion. This experience deepened my understanding of stakeholder needs, strengthened my skills in project management and communication, and equipped me to deliver actionable insights rooted in rigorous science. Currently, as an Environmental Program Officer at Parks Canada, I apply my ecosystem science expertise to the regulatory side of environmental protection. I provide advice to responsible parties to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and codes for agency assets, including petroleum storage tank systems, hazardous materials, and pesticides. Additionally, I advise field units on environmental risks and due diligence requirements. My background in ecosystem health assessment—specifically in plant and soil components—provides a strong scientific foundation to effectively evaluate and manage environmental impacts, bridging my research experience with regulatory practices. Furthermore, I have independently developed innovative Excel-based tools to streamline regulatory processes, demonstrating my proficiency with current technology and my commitment to maintaining efficiency in scientific workflows. These tools integrate modern approaches to enhance accuracy, minimize human error, and ensure compliance with evolving industry standards (e.g, a tool that automatically identifies regulatory requirements based on the components of storage systems). With my research, consulting, and regulatory experience, I am well-equipped to lead impactful environmental projects, deliver innovative solutions, and engage stakeholders. I am eager to expand my career and contribute to meaningful initiatives in science and protection.
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