Senior Biologist

About the opportunity

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Senior Biologist with experience in natural resource management and biological studies for our San Luis Obispo, CA office.  We are seeking a candidate who is looking to develop or continue a long-term consulting career that combines high-level technical expertise, business acumen and the potential for leadership. Responsibilities may include developing and implementing scientific studies, leading surveys, natural resource planning, staff coordination, project management, and business development. An important aspect of the work will involve staff mentorship and technical review of reports.

The Senior Biologist will have the opportunity to join SWCA’s scientific leadership program, which allows top subject experts to be recognized and rewarded for distinguished productivity and intellectual acumen, to make regular contributions to corporate strategies, and provide input to all levels of the company. It is anticipated that low to moderate travel will be required for the position. This position is a regular, full-time salaried position. Pay rate will be competitive, based on individual qualifications and experience. 

What you will accomplish

• Work closely with a project team to develop innovative approaches to resource assessment that meet client needs and can withstand agency and public scrutiny.
• Take initiative and resolve issues to assure client needs are addressed.
• Coordinate and/or lead biological survey efforts.
• Serve as project manager or technical lead on a variety of biological resource projects.
• Use GPS units, and other maps and tools during fieldwork.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Work closely with SWCA’s other resource scientists, planners, on natural and cultural resource projects throughout the company.

Experience and qualifications for success

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field required, Master's degree highly desired.
• 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in biological surveys and resource management in either the public or private sector.
• Experience of working with scientists, planners, engineers, contractors, and agency specialists.
• Ability to promote SWCAs services internally and externally.
• Experience managing subcontractors and ensuring technical excellence.
• Experience in writing technical reports.
• The ideal candidate will also possess strong wildlife and/or plant identification skills; familiarity with the Endangered Species Act, excellent writing skills, and ability to record accurate field notes required.
• Ability to take initiative, resolve problems and ensure tasks are completed in the most effective manner.
• Ability to work as member of a team and independently to make decisions and complete tasks in the most effective manner. Willingness to learn and grow into increased project-management and supervisorial responsibilities.

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a growing employee-owned firm, providing a full-spectrum of environmental services. With offices across the United States, SWCA is one of the largest environmental compliance firms and ranks among Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms. 

If you would like to contact SWCA regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the online application process due to a disability, please email accommodations@swca.com or call 1-480-581-5378. This contact information is for disability accommodation requests only. All other inquiries will not receive a response. 

EOE - women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply.

An employee in this San Luis Obispo, CA-based position can expect a salary of $93,912-$122,304/year. Actual pay within this range may depend on experience, qualifications, geographic location, client requirements where applicable, and other factors permitted by law.  Regular-status employees are also eligible for performance bonuses. Candidates are also encouraged to consider SWCA’s Total Rewards package, which includes a competitive Benefits package, forward-thinking workplace flexibility, outstanding corporate culture, award-winning career development, and more.

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Seniority Level