Field Biologist - Bakersfield

Position Overview

Who You Are

As an employee, you embrace accountability, work safely, collaborate, and think resourcefully and independently. You are curious, solution‑oriented, and innovative.

How You’ll Make an Impact

Dudek is seeking early‑career to mid‑level professionals to provide as‑needed biological surveys. The position will be based at project sites within California. The candidate will have demonstrated expertise in a specific environmental resource area, including but not limited to surveying for biological and aquatic resources and environmental monitoring.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with other Dudek staff and subconsultants to conduct field studies/surveys, including but not limited to the following:
  • Vegetation mapping and habitat characterizations
  • General botanical surveys and inventories
  • Focused surveys and/or habitat assessments for special‑status plant and wildlife species
  • Aquatic resource delineations pursuant to federal and state requirements to support regulatory permit applications
• Record and document observations on a Dudek electronic platform for reporting purposes.
• Follow all Dudek and project site safety protocols.
• Travel to project sites located throughout California.
• Hike long distances in potentially inclement weather, heat, and rough terrain.
• Apply a high level of attention to detail and work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, or other related field; OR a minimum of 1–3 years demonstrated field experience in biological resource management and surveying.
• Knowledge of and ability to identify California wildlife and/or plant species.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and active personal automobile liability insurance by the first day of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Highly organized with the ability to multi‑task.
• Possess sound judgement and able to think on your feet.
• Self‑motivated with an interest in learning and growing as a project team.
• Understanding of and familiarity with environmental regulations and permits.
• Scientific Collecting Permit from California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
• Agency‑qualified biologist to survey and monitor for special‑status wildlife and plant species, including for nesting birds.
• Experience executing species‑specific survey protocols.
• Experience identifying common and rare plant species and/or using dichotomous keys to identify plants.
• Demonstrate strong oral communication skills and responsiveness.

Compensation

Compensation ranges from $24.00 to $50.00 per hour, based on related experience, education, certifications, skills, and work location.

* Final agreed‑upon compensation will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to an individual’s related experience, education, certifications, skills, and work location. Successful candidates must pass a pre‑employment drug test and background check prior to beginning employment.

Benefits for Part‑Time/As‑Needed Employees

As‑needed and part‑time employees are eligible for our 401(k) plan, sick leave, and our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). They also have the option of additional benefits such as medical coverage and ESOP participation if they meet minimum hours worked during the 12‑month look‑back period. Speak with your recruiter to learn more.

Working Conditions

• This job operates outdoors and in office environments, using standard office equipment such as computers, phones, printers, etc.
• Project site visits may involve excessive noise, uneven walking surfaces, extreme weather conditions, and the presence of moving vehicles and equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Working on a computer, sitting, or standing for long periods in an office or remote office setting.
• Employees must be capable of bending, squatting, climbing ladders, and lifting up to 35 lbs. unassisted or 50 lbs. in a team lift (two or more employees).
• Attending meetings, both in person and virtually, and speaking on the phone with peers, clients, etc.
• Specific vision abilities, including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the…