Senior Biologist
$120,000.00 Annually
Apply (opens in a new tab)Senior Biologist
Posted 9 days ago
SENIORITY
Senior
SALARY
$120,000.00 Annually
About the role
- Lead biological resource assessments and compliance for electric substation, transmission, and distribution projects, including special-status species surveys, habitat evaluations, and support throughout project lifecycle from planning to construction closeout.
- Oversee CEQA biological impact analyses and the preparation of technical biological reports and sections for EIRs, Initial Studies, and other CEQA documents; coordinate with agencies on biological resources.
- Oversee preparation and acquisition of state and federal environmental permits related to biological resources, such as CDFW 2081 Incidental Take Permits, USFWS Biological Opinions, USACE 404 permits, and RWQCB certifications; ensure compliance with permit conditions.
- Oversee field and construction compliance for biological resources, including implementation of mitigation measures, monitoring of special-status species protections, and coordination with environmental monitors and regulatory agencies.
- Support project closeout through biological compliance documentation, verification of mitigation success, and preparation of final reports.
- Provide expert biological and regulatory guidance on special-status species, habitat impacts, and compliance strategies for linear infrastructure projects.
- Mentor, supervise, and develop junior biologists and technical staff; conduct quality reviews of biological reports and compliance documentation.
- Manage biological workstream budgets, schedules, and scopes; support proposals and business development as needed.
- Represent the organization in agency consultations, public meetings, and briefings on biological resource issues.
- Acknowledge and participate in OMS H&S programs and trainings.
- Other duties as assigned by OMS or the client.
- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Planning, Environmental Science, Biology, Natural Resource Management, Urban/Regional Planning, or closely related field. Master's degree strongly preferred.
- Minimum of fifteen to twenty (15-20) years of progressively responsible professional experience in biological resources assessment, special-status species surveys, CEQA impact analyses, and regulatory permitting for California infrastructure projects.
- Demonstrated expertise and hands-on experience supporting linear infrastructure projects, including electric substations, transmission, and distribution projects in California.
- Extensive experience overseeing CEQA biological impact analyses and preparing supporting technical studies for complex infrastructure projects.
- Proven track record in preparing and securing state and federal permits for biological resources on utility and energy projects.
- Significant direct experience in field surveys, construction monitoring, and implementing permit conditions during active construction.
- Comprehensive working knowledge of California Endangered Species Act, federal Endangered Species Act, CEQA biological requirements, CDFW protocols, USFWS guidelines, and other relevant biological regulations.
- Strong technical writing, field leadership, communication skills, and ability to present complex biological data clearly.
- Valid California driver's license and ability/willingness to travel to project sites across California (approximately 20-40% travel, including occasional overnight stays).
- Conduct a background check, drug screening, and physical exam.
- Must have and maintain a clean driving record.
- Direct experience supporting California Investor-Owned Utilities (PG&E, Southern California Edison, or San Diego Gas & Electric) on electric transmission projects.
- Experience with NEPA compliance and federal permits (e.g., USFWS, USACE).
- Professional certifications such as Certified Wildlife Biologist or similar preferred.
- Familiarity with GIS applications for habitat mapping and biological database tools.
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