Senior Environmental Scientist

Not every environmental science job changes how California manages its forests. This one does. The California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection is looking for a Senior Environmental Scientist (LT) to join our team. If you're the kind of scientist who wants to do more than write reports, if you want your work to influence policy, shape regulations, tackle emerging environmental challenges, and help guide the future of California's forests and fire resilience, we'd encourage you to take a serious look. This isn't a position where your work disappears into a filing cabinet. You'll work alongside foresters, biologists, policymakers, fire professionals, and legal experts on some of California's most complex and high-profile natural resource issues. From forest resilience and vegetation management to environmental review and statewide policy development, you'll have a seat at the table where important decisions are made. Yes, it's a limited-term position but it's also an opportunity to build relationships, gain invaluable experience in state government, and make a meaningful impact while working with a small, highly motivated team that values new ideas and fresh perspectives. If you've been looking for a way to break into state service—or you're ready for your next challenge,it might be it. Come help shape the future of California's forests. Company Description The California Board of Forestry & Fire Protection is a state agency that develops and implements policies related to forest management, wildfire prevention, and natural resource protection across California. The Board works closely with other state and local agencies, scientific experts, and community stakeholders to promote sustainable forestry practices and reduce wildfire risk. Its mission includes balancing environmental conservation with responsible land use and public safety. Team members contribute to evidence-based policy decisions that shape how California's forests and wildlands are managed for current and future generations. Role Description The Senior Environmental Scientist will provide advanced scientific and technical expertise to support the Board’s forestry and wildfire-related programs in California, United States. This temporary, on-site role involves conducting environmental analyses, reviewing project proposals, and preparing technical reports and documentation to inform regulatory and policy decisions. The position includes evaluating potential impacts of forestry practices and fire management activities, coordinating environmental review processes, and ensuring compliance with relevant state and federal laws and regulations. The Senior Environmental Scientist will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, engage with stakeholders, and present findings and recommendations in meetings and public forums. The role also entails mentoring junior staff, contributing to the development of guidance documents, and supporting continuous improvement of environmental and resource management practices. Qualifications Demonstrated expertise in environmental science, forestry, ecology, or a closely related field, with the ability to apply scientific principles to forest and wildfire management issues. Strong skills in environmental impact assessment, regulatory compliance review (e.g., CEQA/NEPA), and preparation of technical reports and scientific documentation. Experience in data collection and analysis, including use of field methods, GIS or spatial analysis tools, and interpretation of environmental and resource-related datasets. Effective communication skills for presenting complex scientific information in clear written and verbal form to technical and non-technical audiences, including stakeholders and decision-makers. Proven ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, manage multiple projects and deadlines, and exercise sound professional judgment in a policy and regulatory environment. Relevant advanced education such as a bachelor's or master's degree in environmental science, forestry, natural resources, ecology, or a related discipline. Experience with California-specific environmental regulations, forest practices, and wildfire prevention or response programs is highly beneficial. #J-18808-Ljbffr