As-Needed Desert Tortoise Biologists (Mojave & Eastern Sierras Regions)

We are seeking As-Needed/On-Call Desert Tortoise Designated Biologists to provide field-based compliance monitoring and survey support for projects across the California desert and Eastern Sierra regions, as well as Southern Nevada and Northwestern Arizona.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
• Current or prior approval through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and/or California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) as a Desert Tortoise Designated Biologist is strongly preferred and will be prioritized.
• 3–5+ years of biological fieldwork experience.
• Expertise in Mojave and Eastern Sierra ecosystems, including experience with desert tortoise compliance monitoring, habitat assessments, vegetation monitoring, and species-specific surveys.
• Familiarity with federal and state environmental laws, including Endangered Species Acts (ESA), California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and (Clean Water Act) CWA requirements, overseeing regulatory compliance, and implementing mitigation measures.
• Demonstrated experience with the species listed above, including surveying and monitoring in occupied habitats and securing project approvals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including strong technical writing experience preparing field reports, monitoring logs, and preconstruction survey documentation.
• Ability to hike 6–8 miles per day in challenging terrain and variable weather conditions while carrying up to 25 lbs of equipment.
• Willingness and flexibility to work extended hours (10–12+ hour days) as project needs require.
• Strong capability to work independently in the field while maintaining effective coordination with project teams.
• Experience working both collaboratively and independently, demonstrating sound judgment and self-direction.