Lead Field Biologists Temp

Lead Field Biologist / Crew Lead

We are seeking Lead Field Biologists/Crew Leads to provide construction compliance monitoring support for a Fresno-based solar project. This role is intended for experienced field biologists with strong construction monitoring backgrounds who can supervise small field crews, coordinate directly with contractors, and support complex compliance efforts in active construction environments.

This is a full-time, temporary position supporting the project through completion (anticipated late 2027 to early 2028).

• Lead and supervise small biological monitoring field crews during active construction activities.
• 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.
• 4+ years of biological fieldwork, including construction compliance monitoring and field leadership responsibilities.
• Demonstrated experience supervising or leading small field crews in active construction environments.
• Strong experience communicating directly with contractors, construction personnel, and multidisciplinary project teams.
• Expertise in Central Valley ecosystems and experience with habitat assessments, compliance monitoring, and species-specific surveys.
• Demonstrated experience monitoring special-status species in occupied habitat and supporting regulatory compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with federal and state environmental laws, including but not limited to federal and state Endangered Species Acts (ESA), California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), incidental take permits, Clean Water Act (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 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) as Designated Biologist or Species Specific Monitor for burrowing owl or Swainson's hawk.
• Experience implementing Incidental Take Permit (ITP) mitigation measures.

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

The hourly rate for this as-needed position ranges from $38.00–$55.00 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.

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.

Rincon Consultants, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.