Copy of Botanist/Ecologist
About The Position
Westwood Professional Services, Inc. is seeking a Botanist/Ecologist to join its Renewables team. The role supports pre-construction and post-construction field surveys, reporting, and development of Vegetation Management Plans. It requires strong plant identification and map-reading skills. The Botanist/Ecologist 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 develops knowledge of environmental consulting and the project lifecycle in their technical area. The position includes field and office work, with independent outdoor work for up to 10 hours a day in varied weather conditions as a regular and expected part of the role. Travel to project sites nationwide is frequent, by driving and flying, typically for one to ten days at a time and particularly during field season. Work may involve walking over uneven terrain, carrying field equipment, and using PPE appropriate to 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 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 the implementation and management of Stormwater Management Strategies (SMS).
- Author reports, emails, and documents for clients and agencies.
- Collect field data, photographs, and clear notes on site conditions.
- 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 them with clear direction.
- Support senior staff and provide coverage in their absence.
- Begin building client relationships and coordinate activities with clients and site managers.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of stormwater regulations and laws, industry standards and practices, best management practices (BMPs), and federal, state, and local compliance requirements.
- Increase general knowledge of environmental consulting and develop an understanding of the project lifecycle in the technical area.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
