Consulting Biologist - (1417)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size environmental consulting firm with offices in 13 states, is looking for a full-time experienced individual as our new Biological Field Services – Consulting Biologist in our Golden Valley, MN office or remote. Since 1990, WEST has grown to be one of the premier environmental and statistical consulting firms in the United States. WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data. This unique blend of disciplines and our years of experience in both areas allow us to provide original solutions to a wide range of natural resource issues from inventory, permitting, to risk assessment, and basic research. WEST provides consulting services to government, industry, and other organizations.

The Golden Valley office is located just minutes west of downtown Minneapolis in the heart of a commercial district along Highway 55 with access to a range of food and service options. The office is situated on a regional bike trail, has access to Metro Transit busing routes, and has free surface parking. The office is growing and currently consists of approximately 20 full-time staff. The office hosts frequent group gatherings and outings to connect and maintain a positive and engaging work culture. 

Please click here to see what benefits WEST offers!

The minimum base salary for the Consulting Biologist position is $66,000, plus annual bonus, and previously stated benefits. Salary will be determined based on education, previous work experience, professional certifications, and demonstrated knowledge.

Job Description:

The position requires prior experience and expertise in environmental consulting; managing natural resource field work and technical studies associated with avian species (i.e., avian use, raptors, eagles) and bats for renewable energy projects (primarily wind projects, some solar); successfully supporting applications for federal, state, and local permits; and writing environmental survey reports, permit applications (particularly sections related to wildlife, special status species or other natural resources), and mitigation plans. Candidates will be responsible for managing natural resource fieldwork, teams of technical field staff, technical reports, agency coordination, and regulatory compliance documents for renewable energy projects and the energy industry. A strong understanding of natural resource issues (avian, terrestrial, and aquatic) is preferred, as is the demonstrated ability to oversee, train and mentor staff. The candidate is expected to have an initial focus on the Midwest region of the U.S. 

Responsibilities include:

WEST’s Consulting Biologist will function as a project manager that will work individually, as well as with a team of natural resource specialists, environmental planners, scientists, and biometricians.  Typical job responsibilities include the following tasks.

• Administration of projects:
  • Promote health and safety,
  • Primary point of contact for clients,
  • Prepare proposals, reports, and permit applications,
  • Provide quality assurance of deliverables,
  • Maintain project schedules,
  • Facilitate communication among the project team,
  • Agency coordination,
  • Participation in public meetings and agency hearings.
• Leading and organizing:
  • Pre-construction surveys,
    • Site assessments
    • Avian use, bats, raptor nest, and eagle nest
    • Wetland and waterbody delineations
  • Environmental planning and permitting,
  • Construction management plans (regarding natural resources),
  • Post-construction wildlife fatality monitoring.
• Supervision:
  • Manage project teams, deliverables, and budgets for multiple projects,
  • Supervise and direct field studies and staff,
  • Training and mentorship of junior staff.
• Market WEST’s capabilities:
  • Foster current client relationships by ensuring delivery of high-quality work,
  • Promote new business development efforts through client engagement and networking.

This is a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of all the duties that may be associated with this position. 

Requirements and Preferred Skills/Abilities:

The successful candidate will join WEST as a full-time regular Consulting Biologist, depending on experience and skillset, and will be a motivated self-starter who possesses:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biological studies, natural resources, wildlife management, wildlife biology, or equivalent.
• As well as previous professional experience in environmental consulting the following are desired:
  • Managing and conducting biological field studies involving avian use surveys, raptor nest surveys, eagle nest surveys, or wetland delineations.
  • A strong understanding of wildlife ecology, native or sustainable vegetation management, or other areas of ecology potentially of interest to commercial clients.
  • Familiarity with a broad suite of environmental regulatory compliance processes (Endangered Species Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, Clean Water Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and state routing and permitting processes for proposed renewable energy projects in the Midwestern region.
• Previous environmental consulting experience (5+ years) with some project management experience including budgeting and proposal writing experience, consulting work, and professional scientific experience.
• Track record of maintaining positive relationships with coworkers, clients, and project stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills:
  • Close attention to detail.
  • Experience with conveying information in both scientific/technical formats and for the general public.
• Good time management, project management, and organizational skills with the ability to work well under time constraints and meet deliverable targets and deadlines.
• Ability to follow instructions from managers and accept guidance and constructive feedback from colleagues and supervisors.
• Demonstrated regular and reliable work attendance.
• Ability to maintain flexible work hours and adhere to company policies.

After an offer of employment is made, the candidate(s) must be able to pass a background check; a pre-employment drug screen; and a DMV records check that meets WEST’s minimum criteria to operate a motor vehicle on behalf of the company.  A valid driver’s license will be required. 

WEST is proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, genetics, and any protected veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.  Further, WEST takes affirmative action to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly, and without discrimination, for recruitment, selection, advancement and every other term and privilege associated with employment.