Wildlife Biologist (Task Lead) Hybrid
Tetra Tech · Portland, OR · 1 wk ago
Analyst$75k–$95k/yrFull-time
Project Leadership & Field Coordination
- Serve as Task Lead for post-construction wildlife monitoring projects at wind and solar energy facilities.
- Implement avian and bat fatality monitoring protocols, carcass persistence trials, searcher efficiency trials, and adaptive monitoring programs.
- Cook up field logistics, including staffing, scheduling, training, safety, and equipment planning.
- Provide oversight and technical guidance to field biologists and subcontractors.
- Support project managers in successful project execution and client communication.
Data Analysis & Technical Support
- Perform and oversee data quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC).
- Conduct statistical analyses and fatality estimation using tools such as GenEst, Evidence of Absence (EoA), R, or similar software.
- Interpret monitoring results and provide recommendations consistent with project-specific permit requirements and mitigation commitments.
- Support development of adaptive management strategies and wildlife mitigation measures.
Permitting & Regulatory Compliance
- Support compliance efforts associated with:
- Endangered Species Act (ESA)
- National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
- Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA)
- State wildlife permitting programs
- Contribute to preparation of:
- Eagle Conservation Plans (ECPs)
- Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs)
- Biological Assessments
- Permit applications and compliance reports
- Participate in agency coordination and stakeholder discussions.
Technical Writing & Reporting
- Prepare technical reports, monitoring summaries, permit compliance documentation, and regulatory deliverables.
- Ensure technical work products meet company quality standards and client expectations.
- Synthesize technical findings into clear, concise, and defensible recommendations.
- Support proposal preparation and project planning activities.
Mentoring & Professional Development
- Mentor junior staff and provide guidance on wildlife monitoring methodologies and best practices.
- Participate in internal training and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
- Support continuous improvement of monitoring protocols and technical procedures.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Science, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
- 3–5 years of relevant professional experience.
- Experience conducting wildlife field studies and preparing technical reports.
- Experience supporting or managing post-construction mortality monitoring studies for renewable energy projects.
- Working knowledge of avian and bat ecology and species identification.
- Familiarity with wildlife permitting and environmental compliance processes under ESA, NEPA, BGEPA, and applicable state regulations.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate field teams and work effectively with clients, subcontractors, and regulatory agencies.
- Excellent technical writing, editing, and communication skills.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record without restrictions.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience using GenEst, EoA, R, or similar statistical software.
- Experience with wildlife fatality estimation and detection probability analyses.
- Knowledge of Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs), Biological Assessments, and adaptive management frameworks.
- Experience supporting ESA Section 7 and Section 10 consultations.
- Experience working on utility-scale wind and solar energy projects.
- Demonstrated experience mentoring junior staff and reviewing technical documents.
- Able to manage multiple projects and priorities in a consulting environment.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and remote locations.
- Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain.
- Ability to lift and carry field equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Ability to travel for field assignments, client meetings, and project support.
- Combination of office, remote, and field-based work environments.
Compensation
Pay commensurate with experience.
Pay Range: $75,000-$95,000 yearly