Field Ecology Lead: Wetlands & Botany for Renewables

ERM; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 93,000 - 124,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Parental leave

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

401(k) Plan

Job summary

ERM is seeking a Managing Consultant, Wetland Delineator/Botanist to lead field-based ecological work across Northern California. You will guide wetland delineations, rare plant surveys, and vegetation mapping, ensuring QA/QC and defensible reporting to support permitting and project viability.

You will mentor junior staff, engage with clients and agencies, and contribute to proposals and cost estimates. A strong field capability, travel, and weekends work are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a natural science field (or equivalent field experience).
• Minimum four field seasons conducting wetland delineations using the 1987 Corps of Engineers Manual and applicable supplements.
• Familiarity with US Army Corps Regional Supplements for Western Mountains, Valleys & Coast, and the Arid West.
• Expertise with sub-meter GPS, ESRI Field Maps, and map interpretation (NWI, USGS, aerial imagery).
• Strong communication, organizational skills, and collaborative mindset.

Responsibilities

• Perform and oversee aquatic resource delineations using ESRI Field Maps and sub-meter GPS collection.
• Conduct and supervise rare plant surveys, vegetation mapping, and habitat assessments.
• Delineate wetlands per the 1987 Corps Manual and relevant Regional Supplements.
• Delineate OHWM using applicable guidelines.
• Coordinate with clients and regulatory agencies; represent ERM in meetings and regulatory forums.

Skills

Wetland delineations

Regulatory coordination

Team leadership

Field data collection

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in natural science

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

ESRI Field Maps

Survey123

Wildnote

GPS devices

Job description

ERM is seeking a Managing Consultant, Wetland Delineator/Botanist to lead field-based ecological work across Northern California. You will guide wetland delineations, rare plant surveys, and vegetation mapping, ensuring QA/QC and defensible reporting to support permitting and project viability.

You will mentor junior staff, engage with clients and agencies, and contribute to proposals and cost estimates. A strong field capability, travel, and weekends work are expected.