Desert Tortoise Compliance Field Biologist – Mojave

Rincon Consultants; Barstow (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 76,000; Part time

Job summary

Rincon Consultants, Inc. seeks As-Needed/On-Call Desert Tortoise Biologists for field-based monitoring across the California desert, Eastern Sierra, Southern Nevada and Northwestern Arizona.

Preference given to those USFWS/CDFW approved as Desert Tortoise Biologists, with prior tortoise work strongly favored. Senior roles may oversee projects and mentor junior staff, while providing expert guidance on compliance and permitting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biology, ecology, or a related field.
• 3-5+ years of biological fieldwork experience.
• Current or prior USFWS/CDFW Desert Tortoise Biologist approval is preferred.
• Familiarity with ESA, CEQA, and CWA regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; strong field-reporting skills.
• Ability to hike long distances with gear in variable terrain.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a Desert Tortoise Designated Biologist on active projects following permits.
• Conduct pre-construction clearance surveys and briefings for crews.
• Perform site assessments, habitat evaluations, and species surveys.
• Maintain field notes, monitoring logs, and daily reports for compliance.
• Prepare reports required by permits and approvals.
• Coordinate with construction teams and project managers to resolve constraints.
• Provide guidance to contractors to ensure permit and protection measures.
• Lead or support surveys for other listed species as needed.

Skills

Desert tortoise knowledge

Biologist

Fieldwork experience

Regulatory compliance

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

GPS devices

Binoculars

Job description

Rincon Consultants, Inc. seeks As-Needed/On-Call Desert Tortoise Biologists for field-based monitoring across the California desert, Eastern Sierra, Southern Nevada and Northwestern Arizona.

Preference given to those USFWS/CDFW approved as Desert Tortoise Biologists, with prior tortoise work strongly favored. Senior roles may oversee projects and mentor junior staff, while providing expert guidance on compliance and permitting.