Entry-Level Field Biologist

Seeking recent graduates with an interest in biology, botany, or ecology and a desire to expand on those skills through a variety of biological field work including but not limited to presence/absence, clearance and inventory surveys for a variety of taxa. This position may also include the opportunity to develop or expand skills in GIS, impact evaluations, data management, and biological report writing dependent on project needs and personal career goals.

Responsibilities may include:

• Conducting surveys for rare/protected plants, non-native/noxious weeds, migratory birds, desert tortoises, wetlands and other habitats, and other natural resources.

• Implementing mitigation and monitoring compliance for construction projects.

• Collecting/managing data.

• Developing biological resource reports and other environmental documents under the supervision of a Project Manager and/or Senior Biologist.

• Implementing field surveys, data collection, compliance monitoring, and other activities in accordance with agency- or industry-established field protocols, while following the company’s professional standards and safety procedures.

• Collecting, managing, synthesizing, and summarizing large volumes of environmental data.

• Effectively communicating, both verbally and in writing, with co-workers, subconsultants, clients, resource agency personnel, construction crews, and the public.

• Ensuring project documents are complete, current, correct, and stored appropriately.

• Working effectively as a member of a diverse team with common goals, as well as independently.

• Tracking and reporting work hours and expenses daily.

Education: A Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, ecology, wildlife sciences, natural resources management, or related discipline is required.

Required experience or knowledge includes:

• Experience recording thorough and accurate technical data and other field observations on data forms, field notes, and/or electronic data systems.

• Ability to read and interpret both physical and digital maps.

• Must possess or immediately obtain a Nevada Driver’s License, Clean Motor Vehicle Record.

• A safety-oriented mindset with the determination to follow procedures and policies.

• Ability and willingness to travel; walk and conduct fieldwork for long hours, sometimes in inclement weather, remote locations, and rugged terrain; and carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds.

• Proficiency with MS Office suite of software and applications is required.

Preferred experience includes:

• Proficiency with Adobe suite of software and ArcGIS, including data management and map production.

• Ability to safely drive (or learn to safely drive) 4WD vehicles in rugged terrain.

• Proficiency with use of GPS units for mapping, data logging, and data management.

• Ability to read basic construction plans.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant in the company’s culture and professional setting.

• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and multi-task.

• Experience conducting field surveys or outdoor recreation (e.g., hiking) in southwestern arid environment.

• Ability to learn and adapt in a variety of work environments.

Physical Demands: This position can be highly physically demanding and the ability to hike over uneven and steep terrain for several miles in a desert environment with potentially extreme weather conditions would be required. Lifting objects up to 40 pounds may be necessary.

Work Environment: This position consists of a highly variable work environment, based on tasks assigned, and would include standard office environment; outdoors in variable conditions; active construction sites; informal public outreach/meeting venues; and formal meeting venues. Work will be performed primarily in Southern Nevada and in-State, with some out-of-State travel required to conduct project-related activities. This position would consist of a primarily field-based environment with time in the office to complete training, report writing and basic office tasks as needed.