Senior Biologist

Position Summary:

The Senior Biologist is a senior technical and leadership role responsible for biological expertise and compliance support, regulatory compliance, permitting, construction-phase oversight, and project closeout for linear infrastructure projects including electric substations, transmission and distribution throughout California and the western US. This position requires a minimum of 15-20 years of specialized California regulatory experience and a demonstrated ability to successfully navigate CEQA, secure multi-agency permits, manage construction compliance programs, and bring projects to full environmental closeout while protecting client schedules and budgets.

• Lead biological resource assessments and compliance for electric substation, transmission, and distribution projects, including special-status species surveys, habitat evaluations, and support throughout project lifecycle from planning to construction closeout.
• Oversee CEQA biological impact analyses and the preparation of technical biological reports and sections for EIRs, Initial Studies, and other CEQA documents; coordinate with agencies on biological resources.
• Oversee preparation and acquisition of state and federal environmental permits related to biological resources, such as CDFW 2081 Incidental Take Permits, USFWS Biological Opinions, USACE 404 permits, and RWQCB certifications; ensure compliance with permit conditions.
• Oversee field and construction compliance for biological resources, including implementation of mitigation measures, monitoring of special-status species protections, and coordination with environmental monitors and regulatory agencies.
• Support project closeout through biological compliance documentation, verification of mitigation success, and preparation of final reports.
• Provide expert biological and regulatory guidance on special-status species, habitat impacts, and compliance strategies for linear infrastructure projects.
• Mentor, supervise, and develop junior biologists and technical staff; conduct quality reviews of biological reports and compliance documentation.
• Manage biological workstream budgets, schedules, and scopes; support proposals and business development as needed.
• Represent the organization in agency consultations, public meetings, and briefings on biological resource issues.
• Acknowledge and participate in OMS H&S programs and trainings.
• Other duties as assigned by OMS or the client.

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Planning, Environmental Science, Biology, Natural Resource Management, Urban/Regional Planning, or closely related field. Master’s degree strongly preferred.
• Minimum of fifteen to twenty (15-20) years of progressively responsible professional experience in biological resources assessment, special-status species surveys, CEQA impact analyses, and regulatory permitting for California infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated expertise and hands-on experience supporting linear infrastructure projects, including electric substations, transmission, and distribution projects in California.
• Extensive experience overseeing CEQA biological impact analyses and preparing supporting technical studies for complex infrastructure projects.
• Proven track record in preparing and securing state and federal permits for biological resources on utility and energy projects.
• Significant direct experience in field surveys, construction monitoring, and implementing permit conditions during active construction.
• Comprehensive working knowledge of California Endangered Species Act, federal Endangered Species Act, CEQA biological requirements, CDFW protocols, USFWS guidelines, and other relevant biological regulations.
• Strong technical writing, field leadership, communication skills, and ability to present complex biological data clearly.
• Valid California driver’s license and ability/willingness to travel to project sites across California (approximately 20–40% travel, including occasional overnight stays).
• Conduct a background check, drug screening, and physical exam.
• Must have and maintain a clean driving record.

• Direct experience supporting California Investor-Owned…