Avian Biologist

ECORP Consulting, Inc. is looking for a mid- to senior-level avian biologist to join the Natural Resources Department in our Rocklin office. We are seeking someone with excellent California bird species identification skills and knowledge of nest ecology, phenology and behavior. In particular, experience with the following Central Valley and foothill special status species is preferred: Swainson’s hawk, burrowing owl, tricolored blackbird, black rail.

The biologist will perform the following job tasks:

• Conduct/lead nesting bird surveys
• Conduct/lead habitat assessments for special status bird species in accordance with local and state protocols or guidelines or as specified in regulatory documents
• Lead/coordinate construction related monitoring for active bird nests
• Interpret/assist with implementation of permit conditions, management plans and other requirements
• Scheduling and staffing field surveys
• Prepare/review nesting bird survey reports
• Make potential for occurrence determinations for special status bird species
• Prepare proposals, scopes of work, cost estimates for bird survey and monitoring
• Assist with drafting permit applications (e.g., CDFW 1602), and preparation of biological sections of other environmental documents (e.g., CEQA IS/MND, EIR, or EIS),
• Manage projects
• Support and train junior level staff

The ideal candidate for this position will have the following skills and experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in ecology, wildlife biology or related field required; Master’s or PhD a plus
• Minimum of 3 years related work or research experience; consulting experience a plus
• Excellent bird ID skills (by sight and sound)
• An understanding of local, state, and federal regulations that affect bird species management in California
• Experience with management of Central Valley and foothill nesting birds and special status bird species, including Swainson’s hawk, burrowing owl, tricolored blackbird, and black rail
• Familiarity with local and state survey protocols and guidelines
• Strong organizational, time management, and technical writing skills; project management experience a plus
• Experience with GPS units/ArcGIS Field Maps (Collector) a plus
• Ability to clearly communicate with clients and Agency personnel in person and in writing
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to travel long distances to and from job sites that may require overnight stays
• Maintain a flexible schedule due to unforeseen or last-minute project needs
• Ability to conduct strenuous field work in inclement weather/on steep terrain is required

ECORP’s mission is to consistently deliver high-quality environmental consulting services through outstanding science and timely, creative solutions for our clients, while providing an excellent work environment for our staff. We assist clients with regulatory needs including compliance with the Clean Water Act, California and Federal Endangered Species Acts, National Historic Preservation Act, California Environmental Quality Act, and National Environmental Policy Act.

ECORP’s Natural Resources Department in Rocklin includes 40+ biologists and project managers who collaborate in a team-oriented atmosphere to meet project needs.

Our base full-time annual salary range is $66,500-$100,000.  Starting salary is determined by relevant experience, education, certifications/permits, geographic location, internal equity and market conditions.