Senior Fisheries Biologist

Environmental Science Associates; Oregon, Portland (IL, OR); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a highly motivated Senior Fish Biologist to join their Pacific Northwest team. This role emphasizes leadership and collaboration, requiring extensive experience in salmon ecology and environmental project management. You will lead impactful projects, mentor junior staff, and engage with diverse clients, contributing to environmental stewardship in a supportive and innovative environment. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant difference in natural resource management while enjoying comprehensive benefits and professional development.

Benefits

Comprehensive Benefits

Professional Development Programs

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of experience in salmon ecology and environmental projects.
• Proficient in project management and client relations.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects on salmon studies and fish passage assessments.
• Prepare environmental analyses and manage permitting processes.

Skills

Salmon Ecology Experience

Fish Sampling

Biological Assessment Writing

Project Management

Team Leadership

Regulatory Permitting

Education

Master's Degree in Fish Biology

PhD in Aquatic Ecology

Job description

ESA seeks a highly motivated Senior Fish Biologist to join our Pacific Northwest Biological Resources and Land Management team. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10-15 years of salmon ecology experience, including fish sampling, reporting, Endangered Species Act Biological Assessment writing and permitting, agency coordination, business development, and collaboration on habitat restoration planning and design. Additional experience with FERC relicensing is a plus. The successful candidate will work with municipal, tribal, non-governmental organizations, and private clients. This senior position emphasizes collaboration, outstanding client service, project management, and team leadership.

Who You Are

• Preferably hold a master's degree or PhD in fish biology, aquatic ecology, environmental science, or related fields.
• Minimum of 10-15 years leading or directing environmental projects.
• Demonstrated leadership, supervisory skills, and experience in client relations and business development.
• Experienced in proposal writing, project scope development, and budget management.
• Proficient in various project types, including fish habitat assessment, passage, restoration, dam removal, and ESA consultations.
• Able to produce clear, concise, well-supported technical documents and communicate complex topics effectively.
• Strong understanding of regulatory permitting and ability to lead permit application processes.
• Collaborative team player capable of managing multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

What You Will Do for ESA

As a senior Fisheries Biologist, you will lead projects such as salmon studies, fish passage assessments, and other natural resource projects. Responsibilities include preparing and managing environmental analyses, leading permitting and agency negotiations, and coordinating with team members. You may lead field surveys, author technical reports, and prepare biological assessments and environmental permits. You will serve as Project Manager, overseeing scope, schedule, and budget, and leading technical teams. Business development, including proposal preparation and client engagement, will also be part of your role. You will mentor junior staff and promote a respectful, collaborative work environment.

What's Special About ESA

Joining ESA means contributing to impactful projects and environmental stewardship within a supportive, innovative, and inclusive environment. We offer comprehensive benefits, professional development programs, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.