Field Botanist/Ecologist for Renewable Energy Projects

Westwood Professional Services, Inc.; Minnetonka (MN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Westwood Professional Services, Inc. is seeking a Botanist/Ecologist to join our Renewables team. The Botanist/Ecologist will assist with pre-construction and post-construction field surveys, reports, and developing Vegetation Management Plans.

Strong plant identification and map-reading skills are required. You will own assigned tasks, research species for solar sites, coordinate with clients and site managers, and support senior staff throughout the project lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Plant Biology, Botany, or related field.
• 0–5 years of experience in botanical/ecological work.
• Sight identification of plants and familiarity with dichotomous keys.
• Map reading and navigating undeveloped areas on foot.
• Data collection using GIS platforms such as Field Maps, ArcMap, or similar.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-construction and post-construction vegetation surveys and wildlife habitat assessments.
• Develop site-specific vegetation management plans meeting local ordinances and site restrictions.
• Conduct stormwater inspections and assist communication with regulatory agencies.
• Oversee field data collection, reports, and project documentation for clients and agencies.

Skills

Plant identification

GIS

Field surveys

Report writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Plant Biology

Tools

ArcGIS

Field Maps

MS Office

Job description

Westwood Professional Services, Inc. is seeking a Botanist/Ecologist to join our Renewables team. The Botanist/Ecologist will assist with pre-construction and post-construction field surveys, reports, and developing Vegetation Management Plans.

Strong plant identification and map-reading skills are required. You will own assigned tasks, research species for solar sites, coordinate with clients and site managers, and support senior staff throughout the project lifecycle.