Senior Project Botanist – Field to Permitting Lead (Hybrid)

SWCA, Incorporated; Half Moon Bay (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

SWCA Environmental Consultants in Half Moon Bay, CA, is seeking a Project Botanist to support the Natural Resources Program. You will conduct botanical assessments, assist with permitting, and help ensure regulatory compliance across infrastructure, restoration, and development projects.

The role emphasizes collaboration with project managers, botanists, and regulators, providing technical reporting, data analysis, and mentorship to junior staff, while offering hybrid work arrangements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Botany, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related life sciences field.
• Four (4) years of professional botanical surveys and fieldwork.
• Experience with rare plant surveys and taxonomy using botanical keys.
• Understanding of environmental regulations and permitting for natural resource projects.
• Experience supporting environmental permitting, compliance, restoration, or resource management in aquatic or wetland environments.
• Strong written and oral communication, and ability manage multiple projects.
• Willingness to participate in pre-employment drug screening.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and hike during field investigations.

Responsibilities

• Lead field data collection and management to ensure accurate, complete project records.
• Perform descriptive data analysis and collaborate with GIS and statistics teams.
• Prepare technical resource reports and coordinate with editors for quality outputs.
• Mentor junior staff on data methods, regulatory needs, and project insights.
• Develop strategies to minimize impacts and maintain regulatory compliance.
• Lead discussions with partners, clients, and agencies and memorialize actions.
• Support NEPA, ESA, CWA processes and related permitting activities.
• Assist with proposals, budgeting, and client outreach to grow business.
• Identify process improvements and implement solutions to project challenges.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Botany or related life sciences

Job description

SWCA Environmental Consultants in Half Moon Bay, CA, is seeking a Project Botanist to support the Natural Resources Program. You will conduct botanical assessments, assist with permitting, and help ensure regulatory compliance across infrastructure, restoration, and development projects.

The role emphasizes collaboration with project managers, botanists, and regulators, providing technical reporting, data analysis, and mentorship to junior staff, while offering hybrid work arrangements.