Botanist/Ecologist

Westwood Professional Services•Minnetonka, MN

About The Position

Westwood Professional Services, Inc. is seeking a Botanist/Ecologist to join its Renewables team. This role supports pre- and post-construction field surveys, reporting, and development of vegetation management plans for renewable energy and land development projects. The Botanist/Ecologist researches appropriate plant species for solar energy sites, coordinates activities with clients and site managers, supports senior staff, and develops knowledge of environmental consulting and the project lifecycle. The position also includes taking ownership of assigned tasks and deliverables and providing direction to Technicians and Interns. The role combines field and office work. Independent outdoor fieldwork of up to 10 hours per day in varied weather conditions is a regular and expected part of the job; fieldwork varies by season, discipline, and project assignment. Frequent travel by car and plane to project sites nationwide is expected, typically for one to ten days at a time, particularly during field season. Physical demands include walking over uneven terrain, carrying field equipment, and working extended periods outdoors. Personal protective equipment is used as required for field conditions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Plant Biology, Botany, or a related field from a four-year college.
0–5 years of experience.
Sight identification of plants and familiarity with dichotomous keys.
Ability to read maps and navigate undeveloped areas on foot.
Experience collecting data using GIS platforms such as Field Maps, ArcMap, or similar.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Effective time and workload management skills.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
General knowledge of environmental consulting, formal and informal communication, and teamwork.

Nice To Haves

Graduate degree in plant biology, botany, ecology, or a related field.
Habitat restoration experience.
Pesticide application experience.
HAZWOPER or OSHA compliance training.
Familiarity with active construction sites.
Wilderness safety training.
Stormwater or trail management experience.

Responsibilities

Complete fieldwork and reports for renewable energy and land development projects.
Conduct pre- and post-construction surveys, including vegetation and weed surveys, plant identification, stormwater compliance, and construction compliance monitoring.
Develop site-specific vegetation management plans that meet local ordinances and site restrictions.
Conduct stormwater inspections and assist with communications to regulatory agencies.
Oversee implementation and management of Stormwater Management Strategies (SMS).
Author reports, emails, and other documents for clients and agencies.
Collect field data and photographs and document site conditions with clear notes.
Assist with plant identification from photographs.
Perform additional ecological fieldwork, including wildlife habitat assessments and wetland delineations.
Take ownership of assigned tasks and deliverables, including report authorship and project-ownership responsibilities.
Assign and manage work performed by Technicians and Interns, providing clear direction.
Support senior staff and provide coverage in their absence.
Build client relationships and coordinate activities with clients and site managers.
Maintain current knowledge of stormwater regulations and laws, industry standards and practices, best management practices, and federal, state, and local compliance requirements.
Develop knowledge of environmental consulting and the project lifecycle in the relevant technical area.