Part-Time Field Biologist

AECOM seeks a motivated Field Biologist for part-time, on-call work in the southern/central California and Nevada desert regions. This role supports natural resource projects, focusing on biological surveys and regulatory compliance monitoring (primarily for desert tortoise and burrowing owl). Potential tasks include vegetation mapping, wildlife assessments, habitat restoration, and permitting implementation with senior biologist support.

This is a field-based, fully remote position requiring local presence during fieldwork. Preferred qualifications include training/experience conducting surveys for listed species in southern California and Nevada, including desert tortoise, burrowing owl, Mojave fringe-toed lizard, and Mojave ground squirrel. Meeting USFWS and CDFW guidelines for desert tortoise monitoring is required.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Desert tortoise, burrowing owl, desert kit fox, and American badger surveys and monitoring
• General wildlife/botanical surveys, including vegetation and habitat mapping
• Identification and recording of native/non-native fauna/flora
• Special-status species surveys
• Avian nesting surveys and avian mortality monitoring
• Project execution support (pre-construction surveys and construction monitoring)
• Environmental compliance monitoring
• Other related duties, like coordination, scheduling, and data management

Desert Tortoise Monitor Requirements:

• Ability to locate, identify, and report desert tortoise signs
• Knowledge of desert tortoise behavior, natural history, and ecology
• Field experience in conducting safe and successful desert tortoise surveys
• Completion of a Desert Tortoise Council Introduction course (or equivalent)
• Familiarity with the Desert Tortoise (Mojave Population) Field Manual
• Ability to conduct surveys as part of a team
• Monitor implementation of tortoise protective measures
• Record and report non-compliance incidents
• Halt project activities if required

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., biology, ecology)
• Two years of relevant experience in desert environments
• Valid U.S. driver's license and ability to drive to job sites

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior consulting experience
• Knowledge of southern California and/or southern Nevada wildlife/plant species
• Experience with electronic data collection tools (e.g., Fulcrum, Field Maps)
• Experience conducting biological surveys/environmental compliance monitoring, and biological construction oversight
• Familiarity with USFWS biological opinions and CDFW incidental take permits
• Field experience with special-status species and knowledge of regulatory requirements
• Possession of a 10(A)(1)(a) permit
• 4x4 vehicle operation ability
• Strong teamwork abilities
• Familiarity with mitigation, monitoring, and reporting programs
• Experience on construction-associated transmission/utility projects
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements (Endangered Species Act, NEPA, CEQA, Clean Water Act)
• Strong communication skills

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