Biologist / Field Lead

About Us

TRC, Member of WSP, is a global consulting environmental and engineering firm and one of the top design firms in the energy sector. Together, TRC and WSP’s 83,000 experts create positive, long-lasting impacts for our communities and our clients in the power and energy, transportation and infrastructure, environmental, and property and buildings sectors. As part of our team, you’ll discover a world of opportunities to connect with innovative thinkers, forge your path, and have fun tackling the world’s most challenging projects. At TRC, Member of WSP, you can have a rewarding career on every level.

TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining science with the latest technology to devise innovative solutions that stand the test of time. From pipelines to power plants, roadways to reservoirs, schoolyards to security solutions, clients look to TRC for breakthrough thinking backed by the innovative follow-through of an industry leader.

We recognize that the expertise of our staff is our strongest asset, so we generously reward employees for successful performance and invest in their careers through training and the development of new skills and certifications.

Overview

The Houston, Texas office of TRC has an immediate opening for a qualified individual to work within the growing Natural Resources Program. Qualified candidates must be highly motivated, mid-level Wetland Scientists or Biologists with 3-7 years of experience. The successful applicant may be involved in a wide variety of projects including oil and gas development, electric generation and transmission, natural gas pipeline, hydroelectric, wind generation, solar power, and transportation projects.

Applicants should have the ability to conduct wetland delineations and functional assessments as well as diverse biological field work with minimal supervision and have familiarity with topographic maps, aerial photography, Trimble GPS units, and ArcGIS software. Applicants must also have experience permitting projects at the federal, state, and local levels and be able to effectively coordinate field work, interact in the field with clients and other contractors, and manage budgets and schedules.

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Preference will be given to those with demonstrated experience with Section 404 determinations, Texas Railroad Commission, NEPA, Threatened and Endangered species surveys, and/or Phase 1 site assessments. Candidates must have a working knowledge of standard office productivity software.

While the position is based in Houston, the position may require routine travel and the ability to conduct fieldwork. Projects are primarily in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.

Responsibilities

• Work under the direction of project managers and other task leaders in the performance of required field biological surveys and studies, and in-office reporting.

• Complete biological surveys serving as the lead wetland delineator/biologist.

• Conduct biological monitoring and environmental inspection of construction projects and provide environmental training to construction crews.

• Coordinate activities and work products with other staff resources and offices, as needed.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, botany, wildlife management, forestry, environmental science, or related field is required.

• Excellent technical writing and communication skills are mandatory along with the ability to maintain a positive attitude during year-round field work.

• Familiarity with the flora and fauna is necessary.

• The successful candidate should be experienced in biological surveys and methodologies, including those conducted in accordance with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (i.e., "wetlands") and threatened and endangered species assessments.

• The successful candidate will also be expected to effectively document field data, provide interpretations, and present conclusions in written reports, memos, and emails; therefore, strong technical/scientific report writing is required and writing samples will be requested.

• Able to work outdoors conducting biological fieldwork in remote areas and extreme weather conditions. Must be comfortable using and operating a variety of field equipment such as handheld Trimble GPS units, 4WD and all-terrain vehicles, digital cameras, etc.

• Able to travel and work for extended periods of time away from home. While the position is based in Houston, both short-term and long-term (up to 2 months) projects associated with the position could be located within other regions of the country, such as the Southeastern, Midwestern, and Intermountain States.

• Possess a valid driver's license and driving record acceptable to TRC's insurance carrier.

In addition, any experience with migratory bird surveys, species-specific endangered species surveys, biology of karst environments, Section 7 consultation, or Habitat Conservation Plans are highly desired but not required skills and should be identified in any application.