Field Biologist (Field Based) Field Biologist (Field Based) Environmental Resources Management [...]

Seeds Renewables; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 71,742 - 94,432; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Medical benefits

401(k) plan

Job summary

A leading environmental consulting firm is seeking a Field Biologist to support power and infrastructure projects in California. This full-time role includes conducting field operations, performing biological surveys, and ensuring environmental compliance. Candidates should have a degree in environmental science and relevant experience, along with strong communication and GIS skills. This position offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package, promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• Ability to work in varied outdoor conditions with frequent travel.
• Strong communication skills for reports and interactions.
• Comfortable with extended stays in remote locations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field operations including vegetation assessments.
• Perform biological surveys and monitor construction activities.
• Document landowner preferences and compliance documentation.

Skills

Field operations

Biological surveys

Communication skills

Detail-oriented

GIS tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS applications

Job description

ERM is hiring Field Biologist’s to join our team supporting power and infrastructure projects across Northern and Central California (San Francisco, Redding, Eureka, Modesto, Sacramento, Fresno). This is a full-time (40+ hours/week), limited‑term role with a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field operations across Northern and Central California, including vegetation assessments and environmental compliance monitoring.
• Perform biological surveys, including avian identification, rare plant surveys, and aquatic species assessments.
• Monitor construction activities to ensure adherence to environmental and permitting requirements.
• Identify riparian zones and flag sensitive areas for protection or restricted access.
• Coordinate property access with landowners and maintain positive stakeholder relationships.
• Communicate project details to property owners regarding vegetation management and utility work within easement areas.
• Document landowner preferences for tree‑trimming debris removal and record agreements using GIS platforms and mapping tools.
• Utilize GPS units, tablets, and mobile applications to navigate and collect accurate field data.
• Prepare clear, detailed reports and maintain compliance documentation for state and federal permitting programs (e.g., CEQA, NEPA, Clean Water Act).
• Collaborate with tree‑trimming crews, inspectors, and contractors to align schedules and scope of work.
• Apply best management practices for erosion and sediment control during construction activities.

Qualifications

• Ability to work primarily in the field with frequent travel throughout Northern and Central California; extended stays may be required.
• Comfortable working in varied outdoor conditions, including steep terrain, adverse weather, and remote locations.
• Strong communication skills for preparing reports and interacting with clients, contractors, and agency representatives.
• Detail‑oriented with the ability to manage multiple tasks under deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with GIS tools and mapping applications (e.g., Field Maps, Google Earth, Collector).
• Commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and client satisfaction.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, ecology, or related discipline. Master’s is preferred.
• 2‑4 years of experience in biological/environmental consulting.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass pre‑employment screenings.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and adapt to changing field conditions.
• Certifications such as HAZWOPER, CPR/First Aid, or biological field methods preferred.

Pay Transparency

For the Field Biologist position, we anticipate the annual base pay of $71,742 – $94,432, $34.49/hr – $45.40/hr USD, limited‑term, non‑exempt. An employee’s pay position within this range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, shift, travel requirements, sales or revenue‑based metrics, and business or organizational needs. This job may be eligible for bonus pay (casual and fixed‑term/Flexforce employees are NOT bonus eligible).

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life & disability insurance to benefits eligible employees.

*Benefits Eligibility is limited to Regular employees regularly scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week. Fixed‑Term employees (including Flexforce) who are regularly scheduled to work 20 hours a week or more are eligible for a limited benefits package. Casual employees are NOT benefits eligible. See your recruiter for more details.

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, determinable, and payable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, or any other form of compensation that is allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company’s sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company’s sole discretion, consistent with the law.

Who We Are

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world’s leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations.

At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world‑class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our “boots to boardroom” approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.

Please submit your resume and brief cover letter. Based on review of these responses, shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.

ERM does not accept recruiting agency resumes. Please 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.

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!