Junior to Mid-Level Biologist

Ascent•Berkeley, CA

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

Ascent is seeking a full-time Biologist to join our natural resources practice in our Berkeley office. This role is for a Junior to Mid-Level Biologist who enjoys using their biological training and analytical skills to solve challenging environmental problems. The ideal candidate is highly motivated to work as part of a team to guide projects through the regulatory compliance process, meet client objectives, and protect sensitive biological resources. A strong belief in the value of preparing well-thought-out, concise, and clearly written reports is essential for providing technically accurate, objective, and reliable information to land use planners, environmental regulators, and other decision-makers.

Requirements

BS or MS in Biology, Ecology, or a related field
Minimum of 2–3 years of relevant experience
Excellent analytical and writing abilities
Experience preparing reports that concisely describe biological conditions, clearly articulating analytical thinking and technical conclusions supported by evidence
Extensive knowledge of California habitats and wildlife species
Experience working on complex projects located throughout California and Nevada, including the Sierra Nevada, foothills, Central Valley, and coastal California
Willingness to travel for fieldwork and be away for several days at a time
Must be located within a reasonable distance (e.g., less than 1 hour commute time) of the office to facilitate site visits
Work authorization/security clearance requirements: Not eligible for sponsorship

Responsibilities

Conduct a reconnaissance-level survey of existing biological conditions for an infrastructure project to identify sensitive habitats or habitats that support threatened or endangered species.
Prepare a land cover map of a project site and assess potential wildlife habitat.
Author a biological resource section of a CEQA or NEPA document, evaluating potential environmental impacts and developing mitigation measures.
Travel to a project site to monitor compliance with environmental protection measures.
Participate in a kick-off meeting with other environmental professionals for a complex and challenging project that may affect multiple environmental resource areas.
Prepare a notification according to agency standards to obtain a Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement or Clean Water Act Nationwide Permit.
Discuss with a project manager how a proposed project activity may affect a sensitive species or wetlands, providing an objective analysis of potential impacts and identifying ways the impacts could be avoided or minimized.
Conduct a survey for nesting birds on a project site and establish buffers to protect the active nest during construction.
Work within an agreed timeframe and budget to identify biological constraints to a project.
Contribute to project success by providing excellent service and high-quality technical information to clients.
Participate in an in-house training session about a current natural resource science topic, best practices, or regulatory change.