Desert Tortoise Field Biologist - Surveys & GPS

ERM; Elko (NV); On-site; USD 52,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Parental leave

Medical

Dental

Vision

Life insurance

Disability

AD&D insurance

401(k)

Job summary

ERM is hiring Desert Tortoise Field Biologists for a large mining project in Beatty, NV. This full-time, limited-term role runs for up to six weeks starting April 1, 2027, at about 60 hours per week.

Responsibilities include tortoise surveys, translocations, compliance monitoring, GPS data collection, daily progress reporting, and safety adherence. Travel and overtime are required as needed.

Qualifications

• Authorized Biologist (AB) certification preferred but not required.
• Experience performing formal USFWS clearance surveys under the supervision of an AB.
• Must provide USFWS quals form at time of application as well as references of ABs worked under.
• Experience navigating transects using handheld GPS units.
• MSHA Part 48 certification preferred or willing to obtain certification prior to fieldwork.
• Strong attention to detail in documentation, organizational and communication skills, and ability to work in a large team.
• Willingness to work in the field for extended periods, including weekends, and to travel as needed.
• Ability to work safely outdoors in variable weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct protocol-based biological surveys involving desert tortoise translocation.
• Biological compliance monitoring during construction.
• Use of GPS technology to navigate and record data in the field.
• Provide daily progress reporting.
• Adhere to ERM and client health and safety procedures.
• Coordinate with construction contractors, project managers, and resource specialists.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

Skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Field work

GPS navigation

Tools

GPS devices

MSHA Part 48

Job description

ERM is hiring Desert Tortoise Field Biologists for a large mining project in Beatty, NV. This full-time, limited-term role runs for up to six weeks starting April 1, 2027, at about 60 hours per week.

Responsibilities include tortoise surveys, translocations, compliance monitoring, GPS data collection, daily progress reporting, and safety adherence. Travel and overtime are required as needed.