Project-Level Biologist

About the opportunity

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Project-Level Biologist  with experience in natural resource management and biological studies for our Broomfield, Colorado office.  We are seeking a candidate who is looking to develop or continue a long-term consulting career that combines high-level technical expertise, strong writing skills, business acumen and the potential for leadership. Responsibilities may include writing technical reports, data analysis**,** natural resource planning, permitting assistance, and coordinating with a multi-disciplinary team.

This is a permanent, full-time, regular position, reporting to one of SWCA’s Natural Resources Team Leads out of our Broomfield, Colorado office. The position will be located in either our Broomfield, Colorado or Fort Collins, Colorado office.  Hybrid work environments are encouraged.

Our Vision (the North Star)****:  Help drive SWCA to be the best workplace and industry leader in sustainability, bringing sound science and creative solutions to global environmental challenges while maintaining a dedication to employee-ownership.

Core Values**:** We are #OneSWCA and collaborate across all our offices, programs, and disciplines. We are #AlwaysLearning, we #NeverSettle and we #GiveBack. We are 100% employee-owned, and we build our success together. It is imperative for the successful candidate to fit SWCA's unique culture. Do you appreciate sustainability and environmental awareness? Is giving back to your community a priority? SWCA is a team of scientists, planners, technical experts, and corporate services professionals that are committed to our culture.

Purpose**:** Our company purpose is to preserve natural and cultural resources for tomorrow while enabling projects that benefit people today. You are invited to be a part of our success story.

What you will accomplish

• Develop project management and technical lead skills on a variety of biological resource projects.
• Support Project Managers with management of project schedules and deliverables.
• Prepare reports and permit documents as the primary author and conduct quality assurance/quality control for a variety of renewable energy project types and sizes.
• Organize, review, and transfer field data, and write technical reports and permit applications and subject matter expert review related to the Endangered Species Act, National Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, Land-Based Wind Energy Guidelines, Eagle Conservation Plan Guidance, as well as local municipal and county environmental regulations, and other resource planning/permitting relevant to the Intermountain West and Great Plains regions. Report writing may reach 50% of the position's required time commitment.
• Work closely with a project team to complete biological resource management tasks.
• Take initiative and resolve issues in an independent manner.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Work closely with SWCA’s other resource scientists and environmental planners on natural and cultural resource projects throughout the company; and,
• Work as member of a team and independently to make decisions and complete tasks in the most effective manner.

Experience and qualifications for success

Required

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in biological surveys and resource management, in either the public or private sector.
• Experience working with scientists, planners, engineers, contractors, and agency specialists.
• Proficiency in analyzing datasets and writing natural resources technical reports -- these may include those related to the Endangered Species Act; the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act; and/or other biological requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in biological surveys and resource management, in either the public or private sector (helpful).
• Experience leading wetland delineations in Colorado (with associated reporting), and US Army Corps of Engineers permitting for land and energy development (highly preferred).
• Experience in preparing reports and permits as primary author for a variety of renewable energy project types and sizes.
• Demonstrated business development success, including proposal writing, budget development, and client interaction.
• Desire to learn and grow into increased project-management and supervisory responsibilities.

Additional Information:

• Ability to travel to a location, walk and conduct fieldwork for long hours, sometimes in inclement weather, rugged terrain.
• Ability to carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds.
• It is anticipated that a low level of travel will be required for the position, with potential for intermittent field work.

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a growing employee-owned firm, providing a full spectrum of environmental services. With offices across the United States, SWCA is one of the largest environmental compliance firms and ranks among Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms.

In accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act (EPEWA), we are disclosing a good faith estimate of the compensation range for roles that will be, or could be, performed in Colorado.

In Colorado, an employee in this position can expect an annual rate between $55,00.00 and $75,000.00, depending on experience, geographic locations, client requirements where applicable, and other factors permitted by law.  Employees in this position are eligible for consideration for SWCA’s annual bonus program, which provides awards based on individual and organizational performance.  To review additional benefits associated with this position, click here: https://www.swca.com/careers/benefits

If you would like to contact SWCA regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the online application process due to a disability, please email accommodations@swca.com or call 1-480-581-5378. This contact information is for disability accommodation requests only. All other inquiries will not receive a response.

EOE - women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply

Seniority Level

Associate

Not ready to apply? Connect with us for general consideration.