Senior BiologistEnvironmental | Reports to: Director of Biology | Irvine, CA (Field-Based/Hybrid) | Exempt
About the RoleAs a Senior Biologist at EPD, you work shoulder-to-shoulder with planners and project managers from day one, so your field findings shape the project. You'll lead surveys, write the technical documents that support CEQA and NEPA approvals, and bring clients clear answers on biological constraints. Senior staff mentor your technical writing and field judgment, and you'll do the same for the biologists who come up behind you.
Critical Outcomes (First 6-12 Months)- Lead field survey teams (habitat assessments, special-status species surveys, jurisdictional/wetland delineations) that consistently meet CEQA schedule deadlines.
- Produce biological technical reports and CEQA impact sections that clients and agencies accept with minimal revision.
- Review junior biologists' reports and mentor field staff, raising survey quality and safety standards across your teams.
- Prepare and submit permit applications to CDFW, USFWS, USACE, and RWQCB, coordinate with agency staff, and negotiate permit conditions as needed.
These outcomes anchor the first 6-12 months. Ongoing goals and priorities beyond that period will be discussed and set collaboratively with your supervisor.
Key Responsibilities- Lead biological survey efforts in the field.
- Oversee preparation of constraints analyses, biological technical reports, and CEQA impact assessments.
- Develop impact analyses, mitigation measures, and monitoring requirements for CEQA documents.
- Coordinate with regulatory agency staff and oversee supporting technical content for permitting.
- Coordinate scope, schedule, and deliverables with clients, project managers, and environmental planners.
- Mentor junior staff in the field on safety, quality, and productivity.
QualificationsRequired- 5-10 years of biological consulting experience
- Hands-on experience conducting biological surveys, jurisdictional/wetland delineations, monitoring, and reporting
- Working knowledge of environmental regulations, with experience obtaining and negotiating agency permits
- Proficiency with GIS/mapping tools; strong technical writing and communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor biologists
- Demonstrated ability to deliver multiple projects on schedule and within budget
Preferred- Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field
- Experienced wetland delineator; able to conduct listed and/or sensitive species surveys
- Experience preparing habitat restoration plans
Compensation & BenefitsEPD offers medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k), PTO, FSA, life and disability insurance, and a discretionary bonus.
