Field Biologist

ERM; Carpinteria (CA); On-site; USD 49,552 - 64,168; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Parental leave

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) or RRSP/DPSP

Job summary

A global sustainability consultancy is seeking a Field Biologist for a full-time, limited-term role. The position involves conducting surveys and monitoring for construction projects across California. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or related fields and experience with bird surveys. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are required along with the ability to work outdoors in variable conditions. Competitive hourly pay and benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred in Environmental Science or related discipline.
• Familiarity with nesting bird survey protocols is a plus.
• Ability to work outdoors in variable conditions on challenging terrain.

Responsibilities

• Conduct pre-construction special status species surveys.
• Collect and report data electronically.
• Work independently in remote locations.

Skills

Nesting bird survey protocols

General bird identification skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Flexibility

Fluency in Spanish

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science or Biology

Tools

Data collection software

Job description

ERM is hiring Field Biologists to conduct surveys and monitoring for large construction projects throughout Central, Coastal, and Southern Regions of California. The role requires flexibility and responsiveness to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to project needs. It is a full-time, limited‑term position lasting 6 months with the possibility of extension.

Responsibilities

• Conduct pre‑construction special status species surveys across client project areas.
• Work independently in remote locations.
• Collect data electronically.
• Report daily and compile survey reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.
• Comply with ERM’s rigorous safety program.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology or related discipline preferred.
• Demonstrated familiarity with nesting bird survey protocols and/or general bird identification skills.
• Minimum experience with waters/wetland monitoring.
• Ability to work safely outdoors in variable weather conditions and on challenging terrain.
• Strong attention to detail in documentation.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Desire to work in the field for an extended period and maintain a positive attitude.
• Willingness and ability to travel with overnight stays possible.
• Flexible availability for weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed.
• Independent and effective problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a company vehicle.
• Fluency in English and Spanish highly preferred.

For the Field Biologist position, the anticipated hourly base pay is $35.97–$46.58 (USD). Pay will depend on education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs; it may fall outside this range. This role may be eligible for bonus pay (casual and fixed‑term/flex force employees are not bonus eligible).

Benefits include paid time off, parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP, and other applicable benefits to eligible employees.

Note

Bonuses, commissions, and other forms of additional compensation are not guaranteed and are subject to the sole discretion of ERM and its policies and procedures.

Who We Are

As the largest global pure‑play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world’s leading organizations to create innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlock commercial opportunities that meet today’s needs while preserving future ones.

We are committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that is essential to our success. Our diverse team of world‑class experts helps clients operationalize sustainability across all levels.

Please submit your resume and brief cover letter. ERM does not accept recruiting agency resumes. Do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, ERM employees, or any other company location. ERM is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

Equal Employment Opportunity

ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Thank you for your interest in ERM!