Job Overview
Eco & Associates, Inc. is seeking a Field Biologist / Natural Resource Specialist to support environmental compliance and biological monitoring for civil construction and infrastructure improvement projects, primarily in areas throughout California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
This role is ideal for experienced environmental professionals who thrive in field-based roles and are skilled in sensitive species identification, regulatory compliance, and construction monitoring. The work involves long days (10-hour shifts), 6 days a week, and frequent travel to remote desert locations, often requiring overnight stays and long drives.
Responsibilities
- Perform construction monitoring for compliance with environmental permits and regulations (CWA, MBTA, ESA, etc.).
- Monitor for sensitive biological resources, including federally and state-listed plant and wildlife species.
- Conduct pre-construction surveys, nesting bird surveys, vegetation assessments, and habitat evaluations.
- Observe and document field conditions to ensure implementation of environmental protection measures, including exclusion fencing, BMPs, and species relocation protocols.
- Coordinate with construction crews to minimize environmental impacts and provide real-time guidance in the field.
- Attend and contribute to construction and client meetings.
- Review project plans and environmental documentation to anticipate and advise on potential biological constraints.
- Maintain thorough daily monitoring logs and contribute to weekly and final compliance reports.
Work Conditions & Expectations
- 95% fieldwork—must be physically capable of navigating rugged terrain and working outdoors in extreme weather.
- Must be willing and able to travel to remote, out-of-state locations and work in field conditions with limited amenities.
- Schedule typically requires 10-hour days, 6 days a week, depending on project demands and construction schedules.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Ecology, Natural Resources, or related field.
- Minimum 3 years of professional experience in biological monitoring, construction monitoring and knowledge of southwest natural resources.
- Working knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations, including the ESA, MBTA, and Clean Water Act.
- Familiarity with Southern California flora and fauna, including listed species and sensitive habitats.
- Strong observational and documentation skills; ability to write clear and concise field reports.
- Proficiency in interpreting construction plans, environmental permits, and technical documentation.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working on infrastructure, utility, or transportation projects.
- Experience with agency coordination, mitigation measures, and implementation of biological conditions of approval.
- Familiarity with California native plants, restoration ecology, and construction site BMPs.
- Comfortable using GPS, maps, mobile data collection tools, and digital reporting platforms.
Additional Information
- Job Type: Full-time (Monday – Saturday; 10-hour shifts)
- Location: Various; must be flexible for statewide and out-of-state travel.
- Compensation will be commensurate with experience. Vehicles and per diem will be provided for travel assignments.
To Apply:
Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting relevant construction monitoring or biological compliance experience. Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.
Eco & Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and professional growth.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00 - $32.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Commuter assistance
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: On the road