SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST)

Multiple permanent, full-time positions available in Sacramento County. Hybrid telework schedule.

About the Role

The Senior Mitigation Biologist is an advanced journey-level scientist who negotiates complex permitting with state and federal environmental agencies, with a special focus on transportation mitigation. The role involves developing guidance, direction, and expertise for district staff in identifying, analyzing, and implementing cost-effective mitigation and enhancement measures in compliance with scientific principles and environmental laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The incumbent will act as an advisor to the Chief of the Biological Studies Office and implement programmatic approaches for biological resource permitting.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate complex permitting with state and federal environmental agencies.
• Develop guidance and expertise for district staff on mitigation and enhancement measures.
• Identify and implement programmatic approaches for biological resource permitting.
• Advise the Chief of the Biological Studies Office on scientific and compliance matters.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws (e.g., NEPA, CEQA).
• Work cooperatively with internal teams, state/federal resource agencies, and local partners.
• Communicate effectively in-person, virtually, and in writing, including presenting at public meetings.
• Formulate plans, mentor staff, track progress, and ensure completion of goals and assignments.

Requirements

• Possession of a valid driver’s license for operating state-owned or leased vehicles.
• Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) required; failure to submit will disqualify candidates.
• Experience and knowledge of project permitting requiring state or federal biological compensatory mitigation.
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships with internal teams, state/federal agencies, and local partners.
• Working knowledge of Caltrans project development process and policies.
• Ability to communicate effectively and present information in public forums.
• Ability to mentor staff, formulate plans, and track progress toward goals.
• Eligibility for hire may be determined by score on the Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) exam. New-to-state candidates must be on the state examination list.

Qualifications

• Minimum qualifications will be verified prior to interview/appointment.
• If basing eligibility on education, unofficial transcripts/diploma must be provided for verification. Foreign transcripts/degrees require a U.S. equivalency evaluation report.

Pay

$7,820.00 - $10,732.00 per month. New-to-state candidates will be hired at the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.