Qualified Desert Tortoise Biologists​/Monitors

Overview

Insignia Environmental is a collaborative, fast-paced environmental consulting firm focused on energy projects, including renewables, electricity, and gas. We aim to deliver innovative environmental review, permitting, and concepts to our clients while maintaining a strong reputation in the industry.

Why Join Us?

We value our employees and invest in development through internal training and professional programs. We support teamwork with regular teambuilding events and community volunteer activities. We offer a casual, flexible work environment with generous benefits, including a 401(k)-equivalent program and medical insurance.

Insignia is seeking Field Biologists to embody our vision of being our clients’ trusted partner, delivering excellence with integrity. The role supports desert tortoise (DT) monitoring and biological resources compliance for a new natural gas pipeline project at Fort Irwin National Training Center. The work includes protocol-level pre-construction surveys, daily monitoring of biological resources and construction activities within DT critical habitat, and coordination with project teams to ensure compliance with environmental requirements, including SWPPP inspections.

Qualified DT handlers will be submitted to the USFWS for approval. Mobilization is anticipated for early September 2026, with assignments lasting up to 12 months or longer.

• Conduct protocol-level pre-construction surveys within designated project areas.
• Perform daily biological monitoring of construction activities within DT habitat.
• Monitor biological resources and document compliance with project permit requirements and environmental commitments.
• Accurately record field observations, compliance activities, and biological resource data using standard digital field recording devices.
• Prepare daily monitoring reports, including photographs and documentation of biological resources of interest.
• Communicate effectively with construction personnel regarding environmental compliance requirements and biological resource protection measures.
• Conduct Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training during construction kickoff and as needed for new crew members during construction.
• Other tasks as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
• Current qualification as a DT handler required.
• Ability to obtain approval from the USFWS.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, and confidence in dealing with clients and team members.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct biological fieldwork and surveys in a team-oriented setting.
• Rigorously detail-oriented and committed to accuracy.

• Valid driver’s license and good driving record.
• Willingness and ability to travel when needed.
• Willingness and ability to work up to 12 hours per day, up to 6 days per week, as project needs require.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to walk and hike through varying terrains while prioritizing safety.
• Ability and willingness to perform job responsibilities in desert and inclement weather conditions.
• Ability to commit to assignments of at least 6 to 12 months in duration.

• The rate of compensation offered will be based on individual education, qualifications, and experience. The hourly rate range for this position is $50.00 to $55.00.
• Daily per diem provided according to applicable GSA rates, currently $210 per day for the project area.
• Mobilization support provided for qualified non-local biologists.
• Benefits include a 401(k)-equivalent program.

Interested applicants should submit a resume with a brief cover letter or cover email that includes compensation expectations. We request that applicants refrain from calling our office directly regarding this position.

Insignia may request, for lawful employment purposes, background information about candidates from a consumer reporting agency in connection with employment.

Insignia is an equal opportunity employer. Insignia does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, sexual identity, mental or physical disability, genetic predisposition or characteristics, or any other characteristics protected by applicable state or federal civil rights law.