Mid-Level Threatened and Endangered Species Subject Matter Expert

Merjent•,

1d•$94,800 - $127,800•Remote

About The Position

Merjent, Inc. (Merjent) is seeking a Mid-Level Threatened and Endangered Species (T&E) Subject Matter Expert (SME) with expertise in protected species regulations to join our team. This full-time position supports energy infrastructure projects through critical issues analyses, environmental review, permit acquisitions, and construction/operation compliance management. This position requires the ability to interpret and apply environmental regulations to unique project conditions, anticipate regulatory challenges, and develop practical solutions based on logic and sound technical and regulatory reasoning. Applicants must also have expertise in conducting project reviews and effects analyses to ensure compliance with Endangered Species Act (ESA) regulations for federal and non-federal projects, participating in federal ESA Section 7 consultations, and conducting critical issues analyses to inform project design, schedule, and permitting pathways. This is a full-time benefits eligible opportunity that can be based anywhere in the U.S. The anticipated annual salary for this position is between $94,800 and $127,800 annually, depending upon qualifications and experience. This position is also bonus eligible.

Requirements

Bachelor or graduate degree in biology, ecology, fisheries and wildlife, conservation biology, or a related degree.
Demonstrated experience in working as a T&E SME for 3-7+ years in the following areas, including in the consulting sector:
Technical Lead or co-lead conducting informal and/or formal interagency consultations under ESA Section 7
Technical Lead or co-lead conducting due diligence reviews and analyses to ensure ESA compliance on non-federal projects.
Technical Lead or co-lead conducting reviews to ensure compliance with BGEPA, MBTA, state, and other T&E regulations
Demonstrated ability to lead technical aspects of projects by proactively identifying issues, developing strategies, and driving work to completion while collaborating with senior T&E SMEs to ensure technically sound and practical outcomes.
Demonstrated capacity to manage multiple active projects simultaneously, including the ability to prioritize competing demands, navigate changing priorities, and respond promptly to urgent requests while maintaining project momentum.
Ability to adapt to changes in scope and deadlines.
Experience in analyzing, organizing, and interpreting data from multiple sources and interests.
Demonstrated technical writing skills. A writing sample may be requested during the interview process.
Experience using geo-spatial files in Google Earth and ArcGIS Online.

Nice To Haves

Preference for a background working within the energy industry on construction, operations, and maintenance of energy projects.

Responsibilities

Conduct critical issues analyses and provide technical guidance to internal and external clients regarding species-related risks by evaluating how T&E concerns may affect permitting strategies, project timelines, regulatory approvals, and project execution.
Take ownership of the technical aspects on projects by working with senior staff to set the technical approach, define technical strategy, and maintain accountability for deliverables and outcomes.
Conduct project reviews and effects analyses to ensure compliance with ESA regulations for federal and non-federal projects.
Participate in formal and informal ESA Section 7 consultations.
Draft sections of BAs, Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs) Environmental Impact Statements (EISs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), state permit applications, and other documents.
Manage multiple concurrent projects and competing priorities, proactively advancing project work while responding to urgent and time-sensitive requests and emerging issues.
Coordinate with biological field surveyors on survey methods, implementation, and reporting for survey efforts pertaining to protected species compliance and permitting.
Maintain current knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations, policies, and guidance relevant to project permitting and compliance as they pertain to protected species.
Participate in and foster a collaborative environment within the T&E SME group through proactive communication, knowledge sharing, and coordination with colleagues.
Work with internal project teams and external clients in a manner that is consistent with Merjent's reputation for excellence.