Project Biologist - Natural Resources

About the Role

The Project Biologist will conduct wildlife and vegetation baseline studies, collect and identify fauna and flora, and document habitats using topographic maps, aerial photographs, GPS, and photography. Safety‑focused vehicle operation on rugged terrain and adherence to industry check‑in procedures are essential. The specialist will coordinate with project managers, construction crews, and other environmental professionals to meet field and reporting requirements, and will ensure compliance with applicable regional, state, and federal regulations. Additionally, the role involves desktop analyses, database queries, and preparation of technical reports that include mitigation recommendations, while managing project budgets, schedules, and deliverables. • Conduct wildlife and vegetation baseline studies and biological assessments. • Collect field data, identify fauna and flora, and document habitats using maps, GPS, and photography. • Operate 4‑wheel‑drive vehicles safely on rugged terrain and follow safety check‑ins. • Communicate with project managers, construction crews, and environmental specialists to meet field and reporting requirements. • Ensure compliance with Southern California environmental regulations and Endangered Species Acts. • Perform desktop analyses, database queries, and prepare technical reports with mitigation recommendations. • Manage multi‑disciplinary natural resource projects, including budgets, schedules, and deliverables. • Oversee preparation of biological technical reports and maintain client and agency relationships. • Support team staffing, development, and cohesion while meeting client needs. • Travel, including overnight stays, to field sites throughout Southern California, often in challenging conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸baseline studies
• ▸field data
• ▸gps mapping
• ▸desktop analysis
• ▸technical reports
• ▸project management

What You Bring

SWCA’s Natural Resources team is expanding and seeks a Project Biologist to manage and support a variety of environmental projects across Southern California. The role combines field and office duties, including project management, biological surveys, and staff mentorship, with opportunities for professional development and potential advancement to a full‑time position. Travel, often including overnight stays, is required for fieldwork in the region. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until a robust pool of qualified candidates is assembled. Candidates must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related life‑science field, and possess familiarity with the California and Federal Endangered Species Acts. Required skills include GIS and GPS proficiency, strong written and verbal communication, and competence with Microsoft Office. The position demands the ability to travel, conduct long‑hour fieldwork in varied and often inclement conditions, and carry equipment up to 40 lb. At minimum, one year of experience managing project budgets, schedules, and scopes is expected. Preferred applicants bring five or more years of field experience conducting biological surveys, habitat assessments, wetland delineations, and construction monitoring within Southern California ecosystems, as well as knowledge of regional plans such as the Western Riverside MSHCP or San Diego MSCP. Experience obtaining 10(a) or 1(a) permits and conducting botanical or wetland delineations is a plus. These qualifications support the ability to lead complex surveys and navigate regulatory permitting processes. • Require a Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology or related field and at least one year of project management experience. • Proficiency with GIS, GPS, Microsoft Office, and strong written communication skills. • Ability to conduct fieldwork for long hours, carry up to 40 lb equipment, and work in inclement weather and high altitudes. • Preferred: ≥5 years of biological survey experience, familiarity with California species, permits, and wetland delineations.

Requirements

• ▸bachelor’s
• ▸project management
• ▸gis
• ▸gps
• ▸wetland delineations
• ▸biological survey

Benefits

SWCA Environmental Consultants is an employee‑owned firm offering a full spectrum of environmental services and is recognized among ENR’s Top 200 Environmental Firms. The Pasadena‑based position offers a salary range of $80,308 – $103,428 per year, performance bonuses, and a competitive total rewards package that includes benefits, workplace flexibility, and career development opportunities. SWCA is committed to salary equity, transparency, and a diverse, inclusive workforce; accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available via [email protected]. The company encourages applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. • Salary range $80,308 – $103,428 annually with performance bonuses and comprehensive benefits package.

Work Environment

Field