Environmental Biologists

ICF Olson; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 73,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as an Environmental Biologist, where you will collaborate with scientists and project managers to conduct critical biological testing and risk assessments related to hazardous substances. This role offers the opportunity to work on Superfund site assessments and contribute to environmental compliance efforts. With a commitment to inclusivity and innovation, this organization provides a dynamic work environment that values your expertise and passion for environmental science. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in the field, this position is perfect for you!

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in biological testing following EPA methods.
• Familiarity with test organisms for ecological assessments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct biological testing on hazardous waste and various media.
• Prepare project-specific work plans and review regulations.

Skills

Biological Testing

Risk Assessment

Statistical Data Analysis

Communication Skills

Project Management

OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER Certification

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s Degree in Biology

PhD in Biology or Related Field

Tools

GIS

Monte Carlo Simulations

Risk Modeling Tools

Job description

ICF is seeking motivated Environmental Biologists to support the EPA contract, the Environmental Services Assistance Team (ESAT), nationwide. The team performs sampling and analysis of soil, water, air, waste, and biota for chemical contaminants, primarily supporting Superfund site assessment, remediation, and emergency response, as well as compliance under the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Clean Water Act. Additional support includes field sampling, biological support, risk assessment, sample tracking, equipment maintenance, inventory management, environmental compliance, warehouse support, and subcontracting.

We are currently seeking candidates for the EPA Denver, CO area facility/laboratory but anticipate opportunities elsewhere in the future.

Job Description

ICF seeks passionate, dedicated Environmental Biologists to join our diverse team. The role involves working with scientists, chemists, risk assessors, and project managers to perform biological testing on various media and to review human health and ecological risk assessments related to hazardous substances at Superfund sites.

What You Will Do

1. Participate in planning activities, including meetings, conference calls, and site visits to support project objectives, study designs, and schedules.
2. Prepare project-specific work plans, SAPs, and QAPPs following EPA guidance.
3. Review applicable regulations, guidance, data, and perform statistical data analysis.
4. Conduct biological testing on hazardous waste, water, soil, sediment, tissue, vegetation, and other media using various techniques, including toxicity testing, bioaccumulation, seed germination, microbial, viral, and other biological tests. Conduct reference toxicity testing alongside site-specific testing.
5. Perform biological assessments such as biodiversity, bioaccumulation, immunoassays, gene expression, toxic algae surveys, sediment oxygen demand, and bacterial and viral assessments.
6. Support the preparation and review of biological and health data, including risk assessments and biodiversity studies.

What You Must Have

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in biology or related field, or equivalent technical experience.
• At least 4 years of experience in biological testing on various media following EPA and industry methods.
• Familiarity with test organisms like Ceriodaphnia dubia, Chironomus tentans, Hyallela azeteca, Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow), Oncorhynchus mykiss (rainbow trout), and other species.
• Experience in ecological and human health risk assessments at Superfund and contaminated sites.
• Ability to adhere to SOPs, safety policies, and quality control standards.
• Excellent communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences, sometimes under stress.
• Strong task and project management skills, capable of working in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to engage effectively with clients.
• OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification.
• Ability to obtain access to Federal facilities.

What We’d Like You to Have

• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in biology or related field.
• Experience with biological testing and risk assessments at mining sites or with emerging contaminants like PFAS.
• Strong analytical skills, including GIS, Monte Carlo simulations, and risk modeling tools.
• Leadership skills: high performance standards, team collaboration, respect, and leveraging team strengths.
• Experience working at Federal facilities.

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, combining expertise and cutting-edge technology to solve complex challenges and shape the future. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive, and are an equal opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application and employment process. For accommodations, contact [e-mail]. Learn more about our EEO policy.

We only use AI tools to support our hiring process when explicitly authorized by candidates. To request accommodations involving AI, contact us in advance at the same email.

Pay Range: The full-time pay range is $73,403 - $124,784, based on experience, skills, location, and other factors.

ICF has approximately 9,000 employees and has been helping clients since 1969. Learn more at icf.com.