Field Biologist (Field Based)

Field Biologist

ERM is hiring Field Biologists to conduct nesting bird surveys and surveys for special status species for a large vegetation management compliance program in Sacramento, San Jose, Livermore, Oakland (Fresno Area); Pasadena, Santa Clarita, Woodier, Ontario (LA County); and Riverside, Temecula, and Murrieta (Riverside County), CA. Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to the needs of the project. The role of a field biologist requires technical skills, as well as strong organizational and communication skills. This is a part-time (15+ hours/week, depending on the season), limited-term role with a duration of 12 months and the possibility of renewal.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct pre-construction nesting bird and other special status species surveys and construction monitoring across the client's territory.
• Work locations are often remote and require biologist to work independently.
• Monitor and coordinate with construction crews and provide advice for maintaining compliance with client requirements.
• Collect electronic data.
• Collect handheld and sub-meter accurate GPS data.
• Compile daily reports and survey reports.
• Comply with ERM's rigorous safety program.

Requirements:

• At least 2+ years of avian biology and other special status species experience required. Expertise should include more than one of the following species: Southwestern Willow Fly Catcher, Burrowing Owl, Spotted Owl, Eagles/raptors, Least Bell's Vireo, California Gnatcatcher, Yosemite Toad, CA Red-Legged Frog, Yellow Legged Frog subspecies, Pacific Fisher, San Bernardino Kangaroo Rat, Stephen's Kangaroo Rat, Western Pond Turtle or Desert Tortoise.
• Familiarity with nesting bird survey protocols and/or general bird identification skills required.
• Ability to work safely outdoors in variable weather conditions and on challenging terrain.
• Working knowledge of sub-meter accuracy GPS technologies and map interpretation skills (e.g., NWI, USGS, aerial photography).
• Strong attention to detail in documentation of work.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Desire to work in the field for an extended period and maintain a positive attitude.
• Willingness and ability to travel with overnight stays possible.
• Demonstrated independent and effective problem solving and decision-making skills.
• Driver's License Required: This position requires a valid driver's license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle due to the nature of job duties, which include frequent travel to various client locations across a large geographical area.
• Fluency in English and Spanish highly preferred.

ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.