Consulting Senior Associate, Field Biologist

ERM • Scottsdale, AZ

18h • Hybrid

About The Position

If you’re an early‑career Field Biologist who thrives outdoors, loves hands‑on ecological work, and wants to build experience on high‑impact projects, this role offers a unique opportunity to grow your expertise while protecting Arizona’s sensitive wildlife and habitats. At ERM , your fieldwork directly supports responsible development and environmental compliance across the Southwest. Why This Role Matters? Arizona’s ecosystems depend on careful monitoring and protection during development. This role plays a critical part in ensuring compliance with Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZFD) guidelines while safeguarding special‑status species and native plant communities. Your work helps balance environmental stewardship with successful project delivery. What Your Impact Is: Conduct essential pre‑construction surveys that protect burrowing owls, nesting birds, thrashers, and native plants Support compliance for complex projects through accurate data collection and clear reporting Serve as a trusted on‑site resource, advising construction teams and clients on environmental requirements Contribute to high‑quality environmental science that informs real‑world decisions across Arizona

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, environmental planning, or a related field
• 3+ years of avian biology experience, with demonstrated expertise in burrowing owl surveys
• AZFD Burrowing Owl Surveyor Training Certification
• Experience conducting nesting bird, thrasher, and native plant surveys in Arizona
• Ability to identify Bendire’s and LeConte’s thrashers and nests by sight and sound
• Strong technical writing, organizational, and communication skills
• Working knowledge of GPS data collection (including sub‑meter accuracy) and map interpretation (e.g., USGS, NWI, aerial imagery)
• Ability to work independently in remote locations and safely in variable weather and terrain
• Willingness to travel, including overnight stays
• Driver's License Required: This position requires a valid driver's license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle due to the nature of job duties, which include frequent travel to various client locations across a large geographical area.
• Commitment to safety and compliance with ERM’s rigorous safety program
• This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with habitat assessments, construction monitoring, and compliance reporting
• Fluency in both English and Spanish
• Experience with electronic data collection platforms
• Demonstrated problem‑solving skills in dynamic field environments

Responsibilities

• Conduct pre‑construction burrowing owl, nesting bird, thrasher, and native plant surveys across Arizona
• Perform habitat assessments, construction monitoring, and species monitoring as needed
• Coordinate environmental clearance efforts with construction crews to maintain regulatory compliance
• Collect, manage, and report field data using electronic tools and GPS technology
• Prepare daily field logs and contribute to formal survey reports
• Work independently at remote sites while adapting to shifting schedules, locations, and priorities
• Support additional special‑status species surveys based on qualifications
• Uphold ERM’s health, safety, and quality standards at all times
• Perform other duties as assigned to support project needs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level