Desert Tortoise Authorized Biologist (AB)

Brief Description

Spheros Environmental is seeking a Desert Tortoise Biologist authorized to perform Threatened or Endangered Species (TES) activities. The position is 100% field-based in Nevada and offers a competitive compensation range of $35-70 per hour, negotiable based on experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Support to Project Managers
• Protocol level wildlife surveys for desert tortoises and other sensitive species
• Biological compliance monitoring during construction
• Use GPS technology to navigate and record data in the field
• Data collection in the form of handheld and/or paper datasheets
• Understanding and interpreting resource agency permit requirements
• Provide environmental training to construction crews
• Prepare daily compliance reporting
• Respond to web-based reporting
• Biological Resource Studies and Compliance Monitoring
• Coordination with project team members as a field lead when needed
• Project-specific data management processes
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of natural resource management protocols and best practices
• Data and literature searches when needed
• Data analysis and impact calculations
• Support to Senior Project Managers
• Task management for internal team members on projects
• Aid in troubleshooting project issues with Project Manager
• Client coordination, notifications, meetings, and reporting where needed
• Professional and Business Development
• Develop and maintain professional business relationships
• Acquire and develop skills in the field or knowledge of new regulations
• Assist with developing new project proposals
• Aid in developing new programs as they come into fruition

Qualifications and Education

• Minimally a bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from four-year college or university in Biology, Botany, Ecology, or Environmental Science; and 3–10 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Background in biological resources and experience with wildlife and botanical resources
• Working knowledge of FESA, CESA, CEQA, and NEPA; relevant experience with project types including development, water and other utilities, renewable energy, transportation, and defense
• Experience with ArcGIS and GPS technologies, including digital data collection methods (i.e., iForms, Collector, ArcGIS Field Maps), for large-scale biological resource inventories
• Knowledge of Ajera Accounting software, ArcGIS, MS Excel, and MS Word
• Ability to work long days in rugged terrain and potentially inclement weather; ability to hike on foot in rough outdoor terrain
• Ability to identify common plant and wildlife species; excellent communication and writing skills; detail-oriented, self-motivated, independent, and strong work ethic
• 100% of the time will be spent in the field, on or near the project site, with some pre or post-field organizational activities

Authorized Biologist Level Descriptions

• Authorized Biologist 1: $35 - $45
• Familiar with relevant regulatory requirements related to Threatened or Endangered Species (TES)
• Handles, takes, and harasses
• Supports protocol level surveys and data collection with expertise
• Authorized Biologist 2: $45 - $55
• Strong understanding of TES regulatory requirements
• Authorized to excavate burrows and attach transmitters
• Independently conducts surveys and monitoring
• Serve as survey/monitoring crew lead
• Authorized Biologist 3: $55 - $60
• Thorough knowledge of TES regulatory requirements
• Authorized to relocate and translocate, and can regularly perform these activities adeptly
• Lead multiple field crews, mentor staff, and oversee compliance
• Manage essential field functions including supplies, equipment, and adherence to agency protocols
• Coordinate biological sample management and laboratory testing
• Authorized Biologist 4: $60 - $70
• External subject matter expert (SME) with demonstrated command of TES regulatory requirements
• Authorized to perform most advanced TES activities (i.e., health assessments, DNA sampling)
• Can navigate challenging discussions and situations with regulators regarding TES
• Lead field crews on multiple project sites
• Oversee essential field functions including supplies, equipment, and adherence to agency protocols
• Oversee biological sample management and coordination of laboratory testing
• Regularly contribute to a technical advisory group

Why Spheros Environmental?

• Competitive Compensation: Generous salary range with bonuses and 401(k) contributions
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning, training, and advancement
• Inclusive Culture: Join a company that values collaboration and client service
• Opportunities to provide clients with services from all of Spheros Environmental practice areas

Application

To apply, please submit your resume through the provided external link and include at least one letter of agency AB approval as an additional document.