Junior to Mid-Level Biologist

About the role

Ascent is seeking a full-time Biologist to join our natural resources practice in our Berkeley office. In a typical week, you might:

• Conduct a reconnaissance-level survey of existing biological conditions for an infrastructure project to identify sensitive habitats or habitats that support threatened or endangered species
• Prepare a land cover map of a project site and assess potential wildlife habitat
• Author a biological resource section of a CEQA or NEPA document, evaluating potential environmental impacts and developing mitigation measures
• Travel to a project site to monitor compliance with environmental protection measures
• Participate in a kick-off meeting with other environmental professionals for a complex and challenging project that may affect multiple environmental resource areas
• Prepare a notification according to agency standards to obtain a Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement or Clean Water Act Nationwide Permit
• Discuss with a project manager how a proposed project activity may affect a sensitive species or wetlands, providing an objective analysis of potential impacts and identifying ways the impacts could be avoided or minimized
• Conduct a survey for nesting birds on a project site and establish buffers to protect the active nest during construction
• Work within an agreed timeframe and budget to identify biological constraints to a project
• Contribute to project success by providing excellent service and high-quality technical information to clients
• Participate in an in-house training session about a current natural resource science topic, best practices, or regulatory change

Requirements

• BS or MS in Biology, Ecology, or a related field
• Minimum of 2–3 years of relevant experience
• Excellent analytical and writing abilities
• Experience preparing reports that concisely describe biological conditions, clearly articulating analytical thinking and technical conclusions supported by evidence
• Extensive knowledge of California habitats and wildlife species
• Experience working on complex projects located throughout California and Nevada, including the Sierra Nevada, foothills, Central Valley, and coastal California
• Willingness to travel for fieldwork and be away for several days at a time

Work Environment

• Typical office environment in Berkeley
• Hybrid work is possible, but regular attendance in the office is expected
• Must be located within a reasonable distance (e.g., less than 1 hour commute time) of the office to facilitate site visits

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds at a time

Travel

Traveling over multiple days for fieldwork is required.

Benefits

Ascent offers competitive salaries and comprehensive medical benefits, along with a range of perks designed to enhance emotional, financial, and physical wellness. A comprehensive listing of benefits can be found here.

Pay

Salary range: $62,400–$104,000, determined based on demonstrated qualifications and alignment with the requirements of the position.