Avian Biologist

Tetra Tech is looking for a part-time Avian Biologist to work project sites in the Upper Midwest, specifically in Champaign, Ford, and Iroquois counties, Illinois.

The selected candidate will provide field support for avian surveys as part of ongoing environmental assessments at proposed wind farms locations in the Upper Midwest. Field biologists will be responsible for avian surveys adhering to standardized protocols and keeping detailed field data sheets.

The following duties are considered essential to the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions:

• Conduct pre-construction avian point county surveys, eagle use surveys, eagle nest surveys consistent with USFWS Land-based Wind Energy Guidelines and Eagle Conservation Guidelines.
• Accurately identify local avian species by sight and sound.
• Accurately collect and record data.
• Navigate to and within sites with field maps, compass, and GPS.
• Troubleshoot bat acoustic detectors in the field.
• Retrieve and download bat acoustic data memory cards.
• Follow field and data collection protocols.
• Work outdoors in potentially harsh weather conditions and rugged terrain (i.e., extreme heat or cold, high winds, all forms of precipitation).

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 60 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.

Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred but not required. In lieu of a degree, 2 years of experience is required.

Minimum 1 year of experience.

Excellent communicator, both written and verbal.

Demonstrated ability to operate independently with limited supervision as well as part of a team.

Demonstrated ability to successfully support complex and time sensitive projects and resolve issues in a timely manner.

Able to have flexibility in scheduling due to changing field conditions.

Familiarity with maps and be able to navigate with maps and/or GPS.

Familiar with and competent using compass, GPS, binoculars, tablets and digital cameras.

In addition, the following is required:

• Driving on a regular basis. Passing a motor vehicle record background check and maintaining a valid driver's license and good driving record is required.

Previous experience conducting pre-construction avian point county surveys, eagle use surveys, eagle nest surveys consistent with USFWS Land-based Wind Energy Guidelines and Eagle Conservation Guidelines.

The physical demands described here represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made.

Able to walk around project sites and able to carry up to 20 pounds of equipment such as scopes, maps, GPS unit, and cameras during field work.

Comfortable in harsh weather conditions and rugged terrain (i.e., extreme heat or cold, high winds, all…