Senior Biologist

Kimley-Horn • Orange, CA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Kimley-Horn is a leading civil engineering and consulting firm known for its exceptional client service and commitment to delivering sustainable solutions. Our Environmental team in Orange, CA, is looking for a dedicated and experienced Senior Biologist to help tackle complex projects and make meaningful impacts. We are seeking a driven Senior Biologist with 7+ years of experience in biological surveys, habitat assessment, regulatory compliance, permitting, and environmental consulting. The ideal candidate will lead biological investigations, navigate regulatory frameworks, and contribute to multidisciplinary projects while mentoring team members and delivering top-notch service to clients.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in biological surveys, environmental permitting, and compliance work in California.
• Expertise in California flora, fauna, ecosystems, and regulatory frameworks, including CEQA/NEPA and state/federal species protection laws.
• Proven experience preparing biological resource reports and navigating permitting processes.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, budgets, and deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with experience interfacing effectively with clients and agencies.
• Team-oriented mindset with leadership ability to guide and mentor junior team members.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with GIS mapping techniques/software.
• Certified Arborist or Restoration Ecologist credentials are a plus.
• Biologist certifications (e.g., Section 10(a) permits for listed species) are desirable.
• Experience working with habitat conservation plans, mitigation banks, and wildlife movement corridor studies.

Responsibilities

• Manage and conduct biological assessments, habitat restoration projects, and sensitive species surveys.
• Prepare and review biological reports (e.g., Biological Resource Assessments, Constraints Analysis, etc.) and environmental documentation compliant with CEQA/NEPA standards.
• Provide strategic regulatory guidance and obtain necessary permits from local, state, and federal agencies (e.g., U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, CDFW, USACE).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for integrated project delivery, including planners, engineers, and environmental scientists.
• Ensure projects comply with environmental laws and maintain timelines and budgets.
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to training and development efforts within the Environmental team.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with regulatory agencies, clients, and stakeholders to deliver exceptional service and foster long-term partnerships.

Benefits

• Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to-1 company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
• Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
• Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
• Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.

What This Job Offers

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