Field Biologist, Authorized Special Status Species – On Call

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in California.

📋 Description

• Carry out protocol and pre-construction surveys along with monitoring for Crotch’s Bumble Bee and Quino checkerspot butterfly.

• Perform western spadefoot surveys and monitoring, which includes exclusionary fencing, artificial watering, and relocation efforts.

• Execute Stephen’s kangaroo rat trapping surveys and monitoring, incorporating exclusionary fencing, trapping, and relocation.

• Conduct general wildlife and botanical surveys, which involve vegetation and habitat mapping.

• Identify and document both native and non-native fauna and flora in the field.

• Carry out surveys for special-status species, avian nesting, and avian mortality.

• Assist with pre-construction surveys, construction monitoring, and environmental compliance monitoring.

• Supervise the work of the restoration crew and monitor the performance of restoration vegetation.

• Collaborate with team members and manage work schedules.

• Collect, manage, interpret, and analyze electronic field data.

• Conduct fieldwork independently as well as part of a team in inland and desert settings, including rugged terrains.

• Operate under the guidance of a senior project manager or senior-level team member.

• Maintain assigned tasks within schedule and budget constraints.

• Address compliance concerns and clarify project requirements to the compliance and construction teams.

• Foster a culture of safety and adhere to Safe Work Plans.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (biology, ecology, etc.).

• 4 years of pertinent experience or equivalent experience and/or education in southern California ecoregions.

• Proven experience in conducting surveys for listed southern California species, especially Crotch’s Bumble Bee, Quino checkerspot butterfly, western spadefoot, and/or Stephen’s kangaroo rat.

• A valid driver’s license and the capability to pass a Motor Vehicle Records check.

• US Citizenship is required.

• Previous consulting experience is preferred.

• Background in conducting biological surveys, environmental compliance monitoring, and biological construction oversight.

• Familiarity with implementing USFWS biological opinions or Habitat Conservation Plans, CDFW incidental take permits, and/or CEQA Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Programs.

• Experience or permits for relevant listed species, which include necessary trapping, handling, exclusion fencing, relocation, and survey experience as applicable.

• Knowledge of wildlife and plant species in southern California.

• Proficient with electronic data collection tools like Fulcrum and Field Maps.

• Field experience with southern California special-status species and awareness of regulatory requirements.

• CDFW Scientific Collecting Permit and/or Memorandum of Understanding for relevant species preferred/required as applicable.

• Capable of driving a 4-wheel-drive vehicle over challenging terrain.

• Familiarity with mitigation, monitoring, and reporting programs.

• Understanding of federal and California endangered species laws, NEPA, CEQA, and the Clean Water Act.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

• Strong organizational skills, proactive communication, leadership, and diplomacy abilities.

• Adaptability to support multiple projects and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

🏝️ Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability benefits.

• Paid time off.

• Leave of absence options.

• Voluntary benefits and perks.

• Flexible work arrangements.

• Access to well-being resources.

• Employee assistance program.

• Business travel insurance.

• Service recognition awards.

• Retirement savings plan.

• Employee stock purchase plan.

• Training and development programs.

• In-person onboarding on Day 1 at an AECOM office location.