Field Biologist Temporary

Overview

We are seeking Field Biologists to provide compliance monitoring support for a Fresno-based solar project. This role offers biologists with a range of experience (2–10+ years) the opportunity to contribute to California’s renewable energy transition while working on a large-scale project.

This is a full-time, temporary position supporting the project through completion (anticipated late 2027 to early 2028). While full-time availability is preferred, candidates able to commit to consistent, project-based schedules will also be considered.

Senior-level applicants will have the opportunity to lead field teams, oversee complex compliance efforts, mentor junior staff, and serve as subject matter experts, playing a key role in project execution and team development.

Responsibilities will vary based on experience level, regulatory approvals, and area of expertise, but may include:

• Conduct site assessments, surveys, and habitat evaluations for common and special-status plant and wildlife species; primary special-status species include burrowing owl and Swainson's hawk.
• Perform biological monitoring and provide compliance support during construction activities; prepare monitoring reports.
• Prepare preconstruction survey reports and other technical documentation.
• Track compliance with mitigation measures and permit conditions, maintaining accurate field reports and monitoring logs.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and provide additional support to the Natural Resources Team as needed.

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
• 2+ years of biological fieldwork, including compliance monitoring.
• Expertise in Central Valley ecosystems, including experience with compliance monitoring, habitat assessments, vegetation monitoring, and species-specific surveys.
• Demonstrated experience with the listed species, including surveying and monitoring in occupied habitats and securing project approvals.
• Familiarity with federal and state environmental laws, including ESA, CEQA, incidental take permits, CWA permits, Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements, regulatory compliance oversight, and development/implementation of mitigation measures.
• 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.

• Prior approval through USFWS or CDFW as Designated Biologist, Species Specific Monitor, or General Biological Monitor for any of the above listed species.
• Wetland delineation and regulatory permitting experience.
• Experience implementing Incidental Take Permits (ITP) mitigation measures.

• Preferred:
  Availability to work extended hours (10–12+ hour days), four consecutive days per week (Monday–Friday workweek), for a minimum of three months or through project completion (anticipated late 2027 to early 2028).
• Also acceptable:
  Availability to work three consecutive days every other week for a minimum of three months or through project completion.

The hourly rate for this as-needed position ranges from $32.00–$65.00 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and responsibilities. Salary ranges are based on the market median of similar jobs, according to third-party salary benchmark surveys. Base pay is determined based on internal equity and a candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Explore more about our culture, benefits, and life at Rincon on our Culture and Benefits page.

Individuals offered employment must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of employment. Additionally, those hired who may be assigned to federal projects will be subject to further drug testing, including screening for cannabinoids (THC/marijuana), in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and other applicable federal regulations, which take precedence over California state and local laws.