Senior Biologist - Santa Cruz

Dudek; California, Louisville (MO, CO); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is on the lookout for a mid- to senior-level Biologist to enhance their biological practice in the Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay area. This role offers a unique opportunity to manage diverse projects related to biological resources, including botanical surveys and aquatic delineations. You will be part of a collaborative team that values innovation and sustainability, working in both office and field environments. With a strong emphasis on professional development and ownership, this position promises to be both challenging and rewarding, making a significant impact on local ecosystems and communities.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Bonuses

Stock Ownership

Paid Time Off

Dog-Friendly Office

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in biological consulting with project management skills.
• Strong knowledge of California flora and environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead field data collection and manage biological resource projects.
• Conduct surveys for rare and endangered species and prepare documentation.

Skills

Biological Consulting

Project Management

Communication Skills

Field Data Collection

Flora Identification

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Biology

Master's Degree in Relevant Fields

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Who We Are

Dudek is a leading environmental, planning, and engineering firm that helps public and private clients improve communities' built and natural infrastructure. Founded in 1980, Dudek has grown to over 800 professionals across the U.S. and was awarded the Top Workplace Award for 2024.

As a 100% employee-owned company, Dudek fosters a culture that rewards team members with ownership, professional development, and financial benefits. We seek creative, pragmatic problem-solvers at the intersection of science, engineering, regulations, and stakeholder interests to help clients achieve their project goals. We encourage collaboration, sustainability, and innovation.

Our shared values include:

• Trust: We trust each other to use good judgment.
• Respect: We act professionally and treat each other fairly.
• Teamwork: We share openly and value diverse perspectives.
• Fun: We take our work seriously, not ourselves.
• Well-Being: We care about health, safety, and wellness.

Our culture is built on empowerment and community involvement through initiatives like:

• DuGreen: Sustainability efforts to reduce environmental footprint.
• DuGood: Philanthropic activities supporting local communities.
• eDUcate: Educational outreach to foster interest in environmental careers.
• DuWell: Wellness education and resources.

We value diversity and inclusivity, supported by our Employee Resource Groups:

• Women at Dudek
• LGBTQ+ community members
• BIPOC employees
• Employees with disabilities

Learn more about our culture.

About The Job

Dudek is seeking a full-time mid- to senior-level Biologist to join our biological resources team. The role involves growing our biological practice in the Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay area, managing projects related to biological resources, especially botanical surveys and aquatic delineations, and working collaboratively across our California offices. The position requires both office and field work based out of Santa Cruz.

Who You Are

You should be accountable, collaborative, flexible, resourceful, and independent. We value curiosity, solution-focus, adaptability, and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Lead field data collection in diverse conditions, including remote locations and challenging terrains.
• Identify California flora to species and subspecies levels.
• Conduct surveys for rare, threatened, and endangered species.
• Perform vegetation, invasive species, habitat assessments, and aquatic delineations.
• Prepare reports and documentation for environmental permits and evaluations.
• Manage projects from start to finish, ensuring timely delivery.
• Mentor and support team members, fostering performance and efficiency.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, botany, environmental science, or related field.
• At least 12 years of experience in biological consulting or related regulatory work, including 6 years in project management and supervision.
• Extensive knowledge of relevant statutes, regulations, and permitting processes.
• Experience with biological impact analysis, mitigation, and special-status species.
• Strong communication skills.
• Proficiency with MS Office.
• Willingness to travel, including overnight stays.
• Valid driver’s license and active insurance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in relevant fields.
• Expert knowledge of local flora and aquatic systems.
• Wildlife identification and impact assessment skills.
• Leadership and collaborative skills.
• Customer service orientation.
• Attention to detail and sound judgment.

Physical and Working Conditions

Work includes office and remote environments, with outdoor site visits requiring physical activity in various weather conditions.

Salary and Benefits

Salary range: $90,000 - $150,000, based on experience and location. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, bonuses, stock ownership, PTO, and a dog-friendly office environment.

Dudek is an Equal Opportunity Employer and requires U.S. work authorization for all positions.