On Call Intermediate Biologist

WSP; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP in San Diego is seeking an Environmental Biologist to support data collection, analysis, and reporting for ecological and environmental projects. You will assist with field surveys, habitat assessments, and permitting tasks while ensuring data quality and compliance with applicable laws.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, maintain accurate field notes, and help prepare technical documents and reports summarizing findings and implications for projects in water, air, and land

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or related life sciences field.
• 1 to 3 years of experience performing biological surveys (vegetation, wetlands, wildlife, avian, marine), fieldwork, habitat assessments, wetland delineations, and/or construction monitoring.
• Proficiency with GIS software and Trimble GPS units; ability to collect data with technology.
• Analytical biology skills and familiarity with local/regional ecology, species, and regulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work with diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Assist with collecting, identifying, and compiling observational and spatial data for various species and environmental samples.
• Maintain quality control standards for measurements and statistical analyses of environmental data.
• Support with ecological fieldwork and site assessments; contribute to technical reports and documentation.
• Follow safety guidelines, maintain field equipment, and participate in project planning and permitting activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and adapt to project-specific requirements; travel as needed.

Job description

This Opportunity

Provides technical assistance for the collection, identification, and compiling of observational and spatial data concerning a variety of vegetation, wetland, wildlife, marine, terrestrial, botanical and/or avian species. Provides support to technical staff and project managers for environmental work and permitting projects. Tasks may include assisting with the development of processes and infrastructure relating to water supply, air emission, pollution control, and preserving the quality of the environment by averting the contamination and degradation of air, water, and land resources. Generates accurate and concise documentation assessing project areas, habitat types, associated landforms, movement, outcome, and biological risks/impact. Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards.

Your Impact

• Assist with collecting, identifying, and compiling observational and spatial data concerning a variety of vegetation, wetland, wildlife, marine, terrestrials, botanical, and/or avian species, as well as biological/environmental data from samples of air, soil, water, sludge, and other matrices for projects, investigations, and surveys.
• Maintain quality control standards and procedures for accurate and precise measurements and statistical analysis of environmental data.
• Perform basic professional biology work relating to ecological systems, air, and water resources, verifying the characteristics of a site and providing technical assistance on various environmental issues.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports summarizing research with findings and conclusions, generating complete, accurate, and concise documentation using electronic systems, field/work site notes, and software.
• Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, the maintenance of sample collection, laboratory documentation, written procedures, and logbooks.
• Assist with maintaining and calibrating equipment and tools, troubleshooting or reporting on malfunctions, and performing inventory control activities.
• Assist technical staff and project managers with biological/environmental risk identification and assessment, offering input and analysis with low-level threat mitigation activities and remediation projects.
• Work with cross-functional teams in executing project work.
• Assist with work plan preparation and coordination of field work permitting.
• Complete training on assigned tasks.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related life sciences field.
• 1 to 3 years of experience working as a biologist and completing biological surveys (e.g. vegetation, wetlands, wildlife, avian, marine), fieldwork, habitat assessments, wetland delineations, and/or construction monitoring.
• Prior experience with GIS software and Trimble GPS units and ability to use technology for data collection.
• Analytical biology skills, and experience with research techniques, local/regional ecology and habitats, and applicable species/discipline required.
• Highly familiar with relevant environmental laws, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to a scientific and non-scientific audience.
• Capable self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
• Basic proficiency with business writing, office automation and communication software, technology, and tools.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.