Environmental Specialist 1

GAI Consultants, Inc. is seeking an experienced Natural Resources Project Biologist to support projects through assorted field and desktop responsibilities related to natural resources. The role will support a wide variety of project types for various industry sectors and will be involved with all facets of the project lifecycle: due diligence, environmental impact assessments, permitting and construction compliance. Primary responsibilities include conducting biological field surveys; managing and reporting pre‑ and post‑field data; supporting new project opportunities through the proposal process; and contributing to the preparation of technical reports, permit applications, and other related documents. The ideal candidate will bring demonstrable technical field survey expertise in the greater Southwest US region with a desire to further hone technical writing skills, proposal development skills, and task management / field leadership responsibilities as a biological resources consultant. This is a regular, full‑time position with potential overtime, supporting projects throughout the Southwestern US. The role may be remote but requires candidates to be located within the Southwestern US region. Position Responsibilities Work independently or as part of a team to conduct wildlife studies, wetland and water jurisdictional delineation surveys, vegetation mapping, and general biological resources site assessments. Participate in pre‑field planning and post‑field data analysis, processing, and management in support of technical report preparation, under the direction of the project’s Environmental Task Manager. Utilize desktop resources and digital tools (e.g., topographic maps, aerial photographs, GPS‑based field data platforms/software such as Field Maps and Survey123). Assist with the preparation of technical reports associated with field data. Collect and maintain accurate field reports and data logs using digital forms and collaborative databases. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and provide additional support to the Environmental Team as needed. Read, analyze, and interpret industry protocols, technical reports, and government regulations regarding natural resources, including state and federal species lists and wetland regulations. Work safely in the field, following GAI and project‑specific health and safety protocols; training will be provided for all project‑specific safety topics. Required Experience and Qualifications Extensive biological resources field survey experience in the Southwest, including focused surveys, habitat suitability assessments, and wetland/water jurisdictional delineations. Minimum 5 years’ experience routinely performing biological surveys and wetland/water field studies for private or public sector projects in environmental consulting. Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Botany, Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a closely related discipline. Knowledge of current field assessment protocols and ability to comprehensively analyze and document habitat suitability/quality and site conditions related to proposed project impacts. Proficiency with GPS units and electronic data forms (cell or tablet) in the field. Familiarity with Federal, State, and local regulations, including Endangered Species Acts, NEPA, and the Clean Water Act. Strong knowledge of Southwest US flora and fauna, especially state and federally listed special‑status species. Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% within the Southwest US, including overnight stays and hiking up to 10–12 miles/day in various terrains for up to 12 hours/day. Ability to conduct field work on active construction sites in the presence of construction crews. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a proven ability to interface with a variety of project stakeholders. Strong organizational and analytical skills; ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, leveraging interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, attention to detail, and organizational skills. Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a 4‑wheel drive vehicle in off‑road conditions; UTV operation experience is a plus. Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Preferred Qualifications Experience with power and energy projects on public and private lands in the Southwestern US. Experience managing field teams. Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) Certification is a plus but not required. Compensation Salary range: $68,000 to $75,000 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits Performance‑driven recognition and development bonuses. Medical, dental, and vision plans. Company‑paid short‑term and long‑term disability. Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources. Generous paid time off and 7 paid holidays. Additional floating holiday. Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave. 401(k) with company match. Support for professional development and certifications. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr GAI Consultants Inc.