Biologist II, Natural Resources

ERO Resources Corporation

Position Overview

The Biologist Il is knowledgeable in data collection, analysis, and interpretation of scientific information and environmental regulations and are expected to approach assigned tasks proactively and critically, applying technical skills to accomplish tasks independently under the direction of project managers. A Biologist II performs fieldwork tasks associated with wetland delineations, wildlife and vegetation surveys, and habitat evaluations; and will prepare wetland delineation reports, technical reports, sections of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents, and other local, state, and federal permitting documents. This is a seasonal position with the potential to extend post field season.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, environmental science, ecological restoration, natural resource planning, or similar discipline.
• Typically 4 to 7 years of applicable experience with preference for Colorado-based experience.

Core Competencies

• Prepare or direct database reviews prior to fieldwork.
• Prepare or direct necessary digital data and field equipment.
• Accurately recognize and identify natural resources during fieldwork and mentor others in this identification.
• Accurately, independently, and efficiently download and transfer all digital data (e.g., site forms, photos, and GPS data) post-fieldwork, and direct/mentor others in these tasks.
• Accurately, independently, and efficiently complete data forms and direct/mentor others in these tasks.
• Effectively communicate with GIS staff to coordinate maps.
• Effectively communicate with technical editing staff to coordinate review of deliverables to meet deadlines.
• Accurately, independently, and efficiently prepare reports as assigned by senior personnel or clients.
• Independently and efficiently prepare scopes of work (SOWs) as assigned by senior personnel or clients.
• Meet deadlines and hours per task targets as assigned by senior personnel or clients and communicate early any potential failure to meet these targets.
• Understand most aspects of natural resource regulations and projects SOWs, schedules, and requirements.
• Understand other resource areas in the company and a basic tasks and requirements for integrated projects.
• Proactively seek diversification in learning through training and professional development.
• Complete regulatory documents independently, thoroughly, within schedule, and within budget, including wetland delineation reports, habitat assessments, preconstruction notifications (PCNs), or natural resource assessments, with minimal edits or direction required from project managers.
• Prepare and assist with drafting large technical reports with direction from project managers such as Individual Permits, biological assessments, or technical reports for NEPA projects.
• Effectively communicate with clients and agencies, including meeting with clients; discuss regulations; provide information regarding schedules and project requirements; and coordinate with agencies on various projects.
• Develop positive relationships with clients including attending conferences and marketing events and coordinating directly with clients on projects.
• Work well independently as well as part of a team to build a strong team environment.

Performance Expectations and Responsibilities

A Biologist II is required to conduct tasks safely, independently, and efficiently under the immediate supervision of a Biologist I, Senior Project Biologist, or project manager within the applicable timeframe and schedule. The position requires a “consultant” approach and mentality to meet project schedule requirements and demands. A Biologist II must be able to work variable hours, long days, early mornings, holidays, and weekends, as the workload dictates. Overnight travel may be required.

Employees in this position are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner in all work settings, representing ERO with respectful and courteous behavior and a positive workplace attitude. A Biologist II is expected to interact with clients; attend in-person meetings, marketing events, and conferences, as requested; and prepare SOWs and proposal documents, as needed.

Expected Pre-field Duties (approximately 10% of time)

• Assist with equipment organization and preparation for fieldwork, as requested.
• Be familiar with SOWs.
• Complete or direct completion of safety forms, equipment preparation, and loading equipment.
• Complete or direct desktop review of project areas including reviewing databases for wetlands and open water, raptor nests, and federally listed species.
• Complete or direct coordination with GIS on creating maps for fieldwork.
• Coordinate with junior staff for field needs.

Expected Field Duties (approximately 40% to 65% of time)

Assist with all tasks during in-field site documentation as directed including, but not limited to:

• Drive company vehicles, if requested.
• Complete or direct collection of digital and spatial data with tablets, digital cameras, and GPS units.
• Complete or direct collection of digital or hard copy field forms (e.g., wetland delineation forms and raptor survey forms) or other forms, as needed.
• Complete or direct digging soil pits up to 2 feet deep using a shovel or auger.
• Use binoculars to review for songbirds or raptors and their activity.
• Collect and identify vegetation.
• Mark aerial photographs with vegetation community boundaries, noxious weeds, wildlife, and other sensitive natural resources.
• Follow the Safety Plan and guidelines.
• Record accurate detailed notes, digital photography, and mapping.
• Ensure that all field forms completed by assigned crew are filled out accurately and completely.

Expected Post-Field Duties (approximately 25% to 50% of time)

• Ensure proper upload/scan or transfer all field data into the appropriate server files daily including supervising technicians, if needed.
• Complete or direct resource documentation on appropriate forms and maps accurately, as assigned.
• Complete or direct coordination with GIS staff to modify and create figures for reports.
• Complete regulatory documents independently, thoroughly, within schedule, and within budget including wetland delineation reports, habitat assessments, PCNs, Individual Permits, and biological assessments.
• Prepare and assist with drafting large technical reports with direction from project managers such as Individual Permits, biological assessments, and technical reports for NEPA projects.
• Complete regulatory documents on time, within budget, and thoroughly with minimal edits or direction required from project managers.
• Complete or direct coordination with editors to review final deliverables.
• Complete SOWs as requested by project managers, clients, and teaming partners.
• Effectively communicate with clients and teaming partners on project deliverables and schedules.

Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite products and Adobe Acrobat.
• Proficiency in digital data entry including the Access, Trimble GPS units, and tablets.
• Effective communication skills – written and verbal.
• Demonstrate organization, management of multiple priorities, and oversight of project staff and deliverables.
• Identify common and rare species in Colorado including vegetation and wildlife.
• Complete technical training in wetland delineations or similar technical field.
• Proven ability to manage basic projects, such as natural resource assessments or PCNs, from scoping and contracting through final documentation.
• Lead, manage, and provide direction to team members and field staff.
• Proven ability to interact and communicate with clients and agencies.
• Clearly interpret, understand, and communicate regulations to team members and clients.
• Think creatively to adjust to unforeseen circumstances.
• Collaborate with field teams and across disciplines throughout the company.

Hybrid Office

This position is based in an ERO-designated office with an option for a hybrid work schedule based on employee performance, business needs, fieldwork, and client needs.

Physical Requirements

The project areas may be located at high elevations in rugged terrain. Applicants must be physically capable and possess the skills necessary to perform all aspects of fieldwork including strenuous hiking with a heavy backpack in rugged terrain up to 10 miles a day, collecting digital data, completing standard resource forms, performing in-field data analysis, and taking photographs. A Biologist II must be able to lift 30 to 50 pounds. Work may also include periods of sedentary work including sitting, standing, and using a computer. Repeating motions may include the wrists, hands, and fingers.

Compensation

The hourly rate is $29-$40 per hour depending on experience.

 

 

It is the continuous practice of ERO Resources to encourage inclusion and provide equal opportunities in employment to all employees and applicants. No person shall be discriminated against in any condition of employment because of age 40 and over, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or any other applicable status protected by state or local law. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions are based on job-related factors.

For more information about ERO, visit our website at www.eroresources.com.