Senior Biologist: Habitat, Permitting & Regulatory Expert

Kimley-Horn; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

2:1 retirement match

Health coverage

Flexible schedule

Student loan matching

Tuition reimbursement

New Parent Leave

Job summary

Kimley-Horn’s Environmental team in Orange, CA seeks a Senior Biologist to lead biological investigations for complex projects. You will mentor staff, navigate regulatory frameworks, and deliver high-quality environmental service to clients.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years of experience in surveys, permitting, and compliance, with strong communication and project-management skills and familiarity with California flora and fauna.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in biological surveys, environmental permitting, and compliance in California.
• Expertise in California flora, fauna, ecosystems, and CEQA/NEPA regulatory frameworks.
• Experience preparing biological resource reports and navigating permitting processes.
• Strong project management, budgeting, and deadline leadership.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with clients and agencies.
• Team-oriented with ability to mentor junior team members.

Responsibilities

• Manage and conduct biological assessments, habitat restoration, and sensitive species surveys.
• Prepare and review biological reports and environmental documentation compliant with CEQA/NEPA.
• Provide regulatory guidance and obtain permits from local, state, and federal agencies (e.g., USFWS, CDFW, USACE).
• Collaborate with planners, engineers, and environmental scientists.
• Ensure projects comply with environmental laws and meet timelines and budgets.
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to training within the Environmental team.
• Build relationships with regulatory agencies, clients, and stakeholders.

Skills

Biology

Regulatory compliance

Project management

Team leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

GIS software

Job description

Kimley-Horn’s Environmental team in Orange, CA seeks a Senior Biologist to lead biological investigations for complex projects. You will mentor staff, navigate regulatory frameworks, and deliver high-quality environmental service to clients.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years of experience in surveys, permitting, and compliance, with strong communication and project-management skills and familiarity with California flora and fauna.