Project Description:
We are seeking an elite, senior-level Acoustical Consultant or Principal Scientist to conduct a highly forensic "desktop" peer review of a baseline Environmental Noise Impact Study.
The Project:
The baseline study is for a proposed 6-storey residential/commercial retirement development located in Ancaster (Hamilton), Ontario, Canada. The original report relies on standard 2D STAMSON 5.04 software to model road traffic noise (AADT) and recommends basic STC-30 window upgrades and central A/C.
The Objective:
We require a premium, aggressive desk review to identify mathematical, spatial, and methodological vulnerabilities in the baseline report. Specifically, we want to scrutinize:
Topography & Road Gradients: The reliance on 2D algorithmic modelling (STAMSON 5.04) vs. real-world 3D spatial geometry, with a specific focus on how road slopes and topographical variances were inputted and handled.
Proxy Data Cross-Comparison: Evaluating the baseline report's assumptions by cross-comparing it against a very similar, known noise study conducted in a close geographical location (Ancaster/Hamilton) and within a highly comparable time period.
Stationary Sources: The deferral of stationary source (HVAC) noise assessments to the building permit stage.
Traffic Volumes: The validity of the assumed 90/10 daytime/nighttime traffic volume splits.
Note on Legal Strategy: You will not be required to testify. Your desktop review will be used internally to uncover flaws, and your findings will ultimately be handed over to our local, Ontario-licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) who will independently verify and adopt the analysis for potential Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) merit hearings.
Requirements & Qualifications:
Licensure: A Professional Engineer (P.E. or P.Eng.) license is acceptable, but not required. Because your findings will ultimately be verified by our local Ontario P.Eng., we are highly interested in counter-experts whose elite status derives from scientific, academic, or board-certified credentials just as much as standard engineering licensure.
Ideal Credentials: BSc, MSc, or PhD in Physics, Earth Science, or Environmental Science.
Board Certification: INCE Board Certification (Institute of Noise Control Engineering) is highly preferred and will be given priority.
Software: Must be proficient in advanced 3D acoustic propagation modelling software (CadnaA, SoundPLAN, or equivalent).
Experience: Must have extensive experience in environmental noise impact assessments, land-use planning, and municipal regulatory compliance. Familiarity with Ontario's MECP NPC-300 guidelines is a massive plus, but we can provide the regulatory framework if you are an out-of-country expert.
Deliverables:
A comprehensive technical memo detailing the flaws, omissions, and unquantified risks in the baseline acoustic model. This memo must include:
A direct cross-comparison highlighting data deviations between the baseline report and the temporally/spatially proximate reference study.
Alternative 3D modeling projections (if applicable) to demonstrate exactly where the original 2D STAMSON 5.04 model failed, particularly regarding road slopes and geometry.
To Apply, Please Provide:
A brief summary of your experience with environmental/municipal noise impact studies.
Confirmation of your educational background and/or INCE certification.
Your current licensure status (e.g., P.E., P.Eng., or no engineering license).
The 3D modelling software you typically utilize.
(Please note: We are looking exclusively for environmental and architectural acousticians. We are NOT looking for music producers, podcast editors, or dialogue restoration engineers. Applications detailing music industry experience will be immediately declined).
Contract duration of less than 1 month.
Mandatory skills: Scientific Research, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Acoustical Engineering