As-Needed Wildlife Biologists (Central Valley Region)
About UsWe are an award-winning California-based environmental consulting firm with 550+ professionals and more than 30 years of diverse experience serving clients in transportation, energy, water, infrastructure, private development, and government sectors. Our mission is to deliver practical, science-based environmental and planning solutions that support communities, infrastructure, and natural systemsAs a people-centric organization we value collaboration, fairness, and transparency, and are committed to fostering a workplace that supports both personal and professional growth while offering robust career opportunities. We are especially proud of our recent Great Place To Work® certification, which reflects an independent assessment of our culture and our team member experiences. About The RoleWe are seeking Wildlife Biologists to provide as-needed support for projects throughout the Central Valley, from Sacramento to Bakersfield, with many in the Fresno area. This role offers experienced biologists (3–10+ years) with strong field expertise in Central Valley ecosystems the opportunity to contribute to high-impact utility, infrastructure, and development projects. Senior-level applicants will have opportunities to lead field teams, oversee complex compliance efforts, mentor junior staff, and serve as subject matter experts.What You'll DoResponsibilities will vary based on experience level, regulatory approvals, and area of expertise (biological or botanical).Core Responsibilities -Conduct site assessments, surveys, and habitat evaluations for common and special-status plant and wildlife species.Perform biological monitoring and provide compliance support during construction activities; prepare compliance monitoring reports.Prepare preconstruction survey reports and other technical documentation.Track compliance with mitigation measures and permit conditions, maintaining accurate field reports and monitoring logs. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and provide additional support to the Natural Resources Team as needed. Wildlife Biology-Focused Responsibilities -Survey, monitor, and assess habitats for special-status species, including but not limited to the following: *Most relevant*Burrowing Owl*Swainson’s hawk*San Joaquin kit fox*Blunt-nosed leopard lizardCalifornia tiger salamanderGiant garter snakeValley elderberry longhorn beetleWestern spadefoot toadWestern pond turtleVernal pool invertebratesFresno kangaroo ratGiant kangaroo ratNelson’s antelope ground squirrel Botany-Focused Responsibilities -Identify plant species using a dichotomous key, with an emphasis on Central Valley botany.Map vegetation communities using standard mapping practices and identify sensitive vegetation communities. Survey, monitor, and assess habitats for regionally occurring special-status plants in the Central Valley. What You'll BringBachelor's or Master’s degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or a related field.2+ years of biological fieldwork, including compliance monitoring.Experience implementing Incidental Take Permits (ITP) mitigation measures.Expertise in Central Valley ecosystems, including experience with compliance monitoring, habitat assessments, vegetation monitoring, and species-specific surveys.Demonstrated experience with the species listed above, including surveying and monitoring in occupied habitats and securing project approvals.Familiarity with federal and state environmental laws, including but not limited to federal and state Endangered Species Acts (ESA), California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as well as incidental take permits, Clean Water Act (CWA) permits, Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements, regulatory compliance oversight, and development/implementation of mitigation measures.Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including strong technical writing experience preparing field reports, monitoring logs, and preconstruction survey documentation.Willingness and flexibility to work extended hours (10-12+ hour days) as project needs require.Ability to hike 6–8 miles per day in challenging terrain and variable weather conditions while carrying up to 25lbs of equipment.Nice To Have -Prior approval through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) as Designated Biologist, Species Specific Monitor or General Biological Monitor for any of the above listed species.Wetland delineation and regulatory permitting experience.CompensationThe hourly rate for this as-needed position ranges from $32.00–$65.00 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and responsibilities. Salary ranges are based on the market median of similar jobs, according to third-party salary benchmark surveys. Base pay is determined based on internal equity and a candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional Employment InformationIndividuals offered employment must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of employment. Additionally, those hired who may be assigned to federal projects will be subject to further drug testing, including screening for cannabinoids (THC/marijuana), in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and other applicable federal regulations, which take precedence over California state and local laws.