Senior Ecology Field Technician

WSP is currently recruiting for a Senior Ecology Field Technician in our San Diego, CA office. Multiple ongoing projects require ecological field support across the southwestern United States (e.g., southern California, Nevada, Arizona).

About the role

As a global leader in environmental consulting, WSP offers the opportunity to work alongside experienced ecologists, biologists, and environmental scientists on projects that support habitat conservation, ecosystem restoration, environmental compliance, and sustainable development.

Responsibilities

• Support ecological field investigations, habitat assessments, and natural resource surveys.
• Assist with vegetation mapping, wildlife monitoring, wetland assessments, and biological sampling programs.
• Collect, record, and manage environmental field data using tablets, GPS equipment, and data management systems.
• Prepare daily field notes, monitoring logs, survey documentation, and project records.
• Conduct fieldwork in various terrain and weather conditions, including hiking, carrying field equipment, and working in remote locations.
• Assist with habitat restoration monitoring and environmental compliance inspections.
• Collaborate with ecologists, biologists, and project managers to support project objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Ecology and Environmental Leads.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum 9 years of experience supporting ecological studies, environmental monitoring, habitat assessments, or biological survey programs.
• At least 5 years of experience conducting field-based ecological monitoring, vegetation surveys, wildlife surveys, or similar environmental investigations.
• Familiarity with California ecosystems, native plant communities, wetlands, and wildlife habitats.
• Experience collecting and documenting environmental field data with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to changing field priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
• Experience using GPS units, mobile data collection platforms, or GIS applications (preferred).
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding field activities, including hiking over uneven terrain and carrying monitoring equipment.
• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to travel throughout the southwestern United States and beyond for field assignments.
• Willingness to travel, with field travel ranging from approximately 10% to 100% depending on project needs.
• Passion for environmental stewardship, habitat conservation, and ecological sustainability.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a related field.

Benefits

WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on health and financial stability, including:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life coverage.
• Retirement savings plans.
• Paid sick leave, vacation (or other personal time), and parental leave.
• Paid time off for bereavement, voting, and naturalization proceedings.

Pay

Expected salary range (California): $85,700 – $113,500. WSP USA reserves the right to adjust compensation and benefits based on education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and geographic location.

About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. We design lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water, and environment markets. With over 15,000 employees in 300+ offices across the U.S., we partner with clients to help communities prosper. WSP offers a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs.