Principal Biologist

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, INC.•Sacramento, CA

3d•$130,000 - $1,700,000

About The Position

HELIX Environmental Planning is seeking an experienced Principal Biologist to provide technical leadership, grow its Northern California biology practice, and drive business development. The role combines scientific expertise with client partnership development and building a sustainable book of work. The successful candidate will help shape the strategic direction of biological resources services, mentor staff, and expand the company’s presence and pipeline of work throughout Northern California. The Principal Biologist serves as a senior technical leader and trusted advisor on biological resources projects. Work includes cultivating client relationships and new opportunities; developing proposals, project scopes, and budgets; coordinating with agencies and teaming partners; overseeing surveys, habitat restoration, permitting, and monitoring; and ensuring high technical standards and timely, on-budget delivery. The role also provides mentorship and performance management for biology staff and collaborates on multidisciplinary projects. The position offers flexible work arrangements, with a preference for in-office collaboration and openness to remote work for the right candidate. Expected starting pay is $130,000 to $170,000, based on qualifications and/or experience. HELIX offers a robust benefits package and is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental science, or a related field.
10+ years of experience managing biological resources, natural resources, or similar environmental projects.
5+ years of project management experience.
Demonstrated success developing client relationships and generating new business opportunities.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Experience managing agency coordination and regulatory consultation efforts.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or higher in Biology, Natural Resources, or a related field.
Existing Northern California client network and proven ability to generate repeat business.
Experience managing large-scale natural resources projects.
Experience with state and federal permitting and endangered species consultations.
Demonstrated success achieving annual sales or business development goals.

Responsibilities

Serve as a senior technical leader and trusted advisor for biological resources projects.
Develop and maintain a strong book of business and help expand HELIX's Northern California biology practice.
Identify, pursue, and secure new project opportunities through existing and new client relationships.
Lead proposal development, project scoping, budgeting, and marketing support efforts.
Maintain and strengthen relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, and teaming partners.
Oversee biological surveys, habitat restoration projects, permitting efforts, and biological monitoring programs.
Provide mentorship, leadership, and performance management for biology staff.
QA/QC technical reports, environmental documents, and proposals.
Collaborate across HELIX departments to support multidisciplinary projects.