APS Natural Resource Specialist I/II

The Arizona Chapter of The Wildlife Society; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Arizona Public Service (APS) is hiring a Natural Resource Specialist I/II to support its Forestry and Special Programs team. This position helps ensure vegetation management operations comply with environmental regulations while protecting Arizona’s natural resources.

Responsibilities include conducting biological field surveys, supporting regulatory compliance, developing environmental documentation, and collaborating with field crews and regulatory agencies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife, botany, archaeology, or related environmental science.
• Three years of relevant professional experience for Specialist I; five years for Specialist II.
• Experience conducting biological assessments and environmental fieldwork.
• GIS and Microsoft Office experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field surveys for threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant and wildlife species.
• Prepare Biological Assessments and Biological Evaluations to support compliance with the Endangered Species Act.
• Perform field inspections to ensure environmental compliance during vegetation management operations.
• Research species ecology and develop appropriate mitigation measures for projects.
• Assist with cultural resource surveys and environmental documentation.
• Develop and maintain GIS applications to support natural resource management.
• Participate in APS’s Raptor Protection Program.
• Provide technical guidance and environmental training to field personnel.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies and project teams to ensure compliance with environmental laws and company standards.

Skills

Field surveys

GIS

Microsoft Office

Biology knowledge

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related environmental science

Tools

GIS software

Report writing tools

Job description

Organization: Arizona Public Service (APS)
Location: Tempe, AZ
Job Type: Full-time

Position Overview

Arizona Public Service (APS) is hiring a Natural Resource Specialist I/II to support its Forestry and Special Programs team. This position helps ensure vegetation management operations comply with environmental regulations while protecting Arizona’s natural resources. Responsibilities include conducting biological field surveys, supporting regulatory compliance, developing environmental documentation, and collaborating with field crews and regulatory agencies.

This is an excellent opportunity for environmental professionals interested in combining field biology, conservation, GIS, and regulatory compliance while supporting utility infrastructure across Arizona.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field surveys for threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant and wildlife species.


• Prepare Biological Assessments and Biological Evaluations to support compliance with the Endangered Species Act.


• Perform field inspections to ensure environmental compliance during vegetation management operations.


• Research species ecology and develop appropriate mitigation measures for projects.


• Assist with cultural resource surveys and environmental documentation.


• Develop and maintain GIS applications to support natural resource management.


• Participate in APS’s Raptor Protection Program.


• Provide technical guidance and environmental training to field personnel.


• Coordinate with regulatory agencies and project teams to ensure compliance with environmental laws and company standards.

Qualifications

Natural Resource Specialist I

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife, botany, archaeology, or a related environmental science.


• Three years of relevant professional experience.


• Experience conducting biological assessments and environmental fieldwork.


• GIS and Microsoft Office experience preferred.


• Valid driver’s license required.

Natural Resource Specialist II

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife, botany, archaeology, or a related environmental science.


• Five years of related experience, including at least two years supporting an electric utility.


• Knowledge of environmental regulations including the Endangered Species Act.


• Experience preparing biological reports and supporting regulatory compliance.


• GIS experience and strong communication skills.


• Valid driver’s license required.

Preferred certifications for both levels include ISA Certified Arborist, Utility Specialist, USFWS Sub-permittee registration, and applicable Arizona pesticide certifications.

This position involves extensive outdoor fieldwork throughout Arizona, including travel to remote project sites, overnight travel, and work during challenging weather conditions. Employees may encounter rugged terrain, wildlife, insects, and other environmental hazards while supporting vegetation management and natural resource projects.