Copy of Botanist/Ecologist

Westwood Professional Services•Westminster, CO

About The Position

Westwood Professional Services, Inc. is seeking a Botanist/Ecologist to join its Renewables team. The role supports renewable energy and land development projects through pre- and post-construction field surveys, reporting, and development of site-specific Vegetation Management Plans. Strong plant identification and map-reading skills are required. The successful candidate takes ownership of assigned tasks and deliverables, researches appropriate plant species for solar energy sites, coordinates with clients and site managers, supports senior staff, and builds knowledge of environmental consulting and the project lifecycle. The position includes field and office work. Independent outdoor fieldwork for up to 10 hours per day in varied weather is a regular and expected part of the role, with the amount varying by season, discipline, and project. Frequent travel by car and plane to project sites nationwide is required, typically for one to ten days at a time, particularly during field season. Field work may involve walking over uneven terrain, carrying equipment, and using personal protective equipment appropriate to the 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 MS 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 surveys, plant identification, weed surveys, 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 communication 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 photos, 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 tasks performed by Technicians/Interns and provide 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.
Build general knowledge of environmental consulting and develop an understanding of the project lifecycle in the technical area.