WA Staff Biologist

About the role

As a 100% employee-owned firm, Farallon is built on a shared purpose and long-term commitment. Our people are the reason clients trust us with their most complex environmental challenges—from high-stakes remediation and natural resource projects to regulatory negotiations that shape communities. When you join Farallon, you join a team of scientists and engineers who take pride in delivering technically sound, defensible, and practical solutions. You’ll work alongside industry leaders who are shaping the future of environmental consulting across the West Coast. Your expertise will directly influence project outcomes, client relationships, and the continued growth of our employee-owned firm.

As a Wetland Scientist & Permitting Specialist, you will be both a field scientist and a regulatory strategist. You’ll conduct wetland delineations, habitat surveys, and ecological assessments while translating your findings into clear, defensible technical documents. This full-time, non-exempt, hybrid role is based in our Gig Harbor, Washington location.

Responsibilities

• Conduct wetland delineations, feasibility assessments, and ordinary high-water mark determinations.
• Perform aquatic and terrestrial habitat surveys, species assessments, and population studies.
• Collect, manage, and interpret environmental data, including GIS mapping and Excel datasets.
• Interpret environmental and construction plans to support project design and compliance.
• Develop high-quality technical reports and supporting documents using MS Office.
• Collaborate & elevate. Contribute to a small, collaborative team environment where scientific excellence drives project success.

Requirements

• BA or BS in biological sciences or a related field.
• 0-4 years of professional experience, including at least 1 year in consulting preferred.
• Wetland delineation certification and training in the WA State Wetland Rating System.
• Strong identification skills for Pacific Northwest plants, fish, wildlife, and habitats.
• Familiarity with aquatic and coastal environments of the region.
• Experience with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements preferred.
• Ability to work long hours in inclement conditions and traverse challenging terrain.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. And perform field work and a wide range of physical activities, including sustained walking, standing, and reach in an outdoor environment.
• Ability to sit for extended periods, use a computer, and perform typical office duties.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective time management and ability to meet deadlines and budgets.
• Willingness to travel 20–30% to project sites.
• Bonus Skills: SCUBA certification. Master’s degree in biological sciences or a related field.

Benefits

• Ownership: Participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid premiums for medical, dental, and vision for employees.
• Retirement: 401(k) with up to a 4% company match.
• Time Off: Flexible vacation (10–30 days), 9 paid holidays, and a dedicated paid day for volunteering.
• Growth: Tuition reimbursement and paid renewals for professional certifications.
• Additional benefits may include performance-based incentives, life, AD&D, disability benefits, parental leave, voluntary benefits, flexible work options, employee assistance program, spot bonus, charitable donation matches, paid parking or transit, employee referral programs, service recognition awards and a one-time reimbursement for home office setup.

Pay

Our best estimate of the base salary range for this position is $31.25/hour to $45.67/hour, which comes out to roughly $65,000-$95,000 annually. Located in the Gig Harbor, WA area. Employees are eligible for an annual cash bonus based on firm and individual performance. Actual compensation will depend on experience, education, and internal equity.