Field Biologist; Field Based

ERM is hiring Experienced Nesting Bird/Avian Biologists to perform nesting bird surveys and monitoring in Northern California (San Francisco, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Oakland, East Bay, Fort Bragg, Arcata, and Eureka). Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a challenging and changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to the needs of the project. The role of an Experienced Nesting Bird/Avian Biologist requires technical skills, as well as strong organizational and communication skills.

This is a full-time (30‑50hrs/week), fixed-term role with a duration of 6 months. Local candidates preferred.

• Conduct nesting bird surveys in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., MBTA, ESA, state wildlife codes).
• Identify avian species by sight and sound, with particular emphasis on nesting behavior and habitat use.
• Locate, monitor, and document active nests while minimizing disturbance.
• Establish and manage avoidance buffers and monitoring protocols for active nests.
• Provide real‑time biological monitoring during construction or land‑disturbing activities.
• Prepare detailed field notes, monitoring logs, and technical reports.
• Communicate findings and compliance requirements to project managers, construction crews, and regulatory agencies.
• Mentor junior biologists and technicians in survey methods, data collection, and ethical field practices.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of regional avifauna and current regulatory guidance.
• Electronic data collection.
• Handheld and sub‑meter accurate GPS data collection.
• Daily reporting and survey report compilation.
• Potential to help with office/desktop work as needed.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Wildlife Biology, Ecology, or a related field
• Minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience conducting nesting bird surveys and monitoring.
• Demonstrated proficiency in identifying bird species by visual and auditory cues.
• Extensive knowledge of nesting ecology, breeding seasons, and species‑specific behaviors.
• Experience with special‑status, threatened, or endangered bird species.
• Prior work in construction monitoring or environmental compliance.
• Experience coordinating with regulatory agencies.
• Familiarity with relevant wildlife protection laws and permitting requirements.
• Ability to work safely outdoors in variable weather conditions and on challenging terrain.
• Working knowledge of sub‑meter accuracy GPS technologies and map interpretation skills (e.g., NWI, USGS, aerial photography).
• Must have a strong attention to detail in documentation of work.
• Must have strong organizational and communication skills.
• Desire to work in the field for extended period and maintain a positive attitude.
• Ability to hike long distances over uneven terrain.
• Ability to work in variable weather conditions, including heat, cold, and wind.
• Ability to carry field equipment for extended periods.
• Willingness and ability to travel with overnight stays possible.
• Demonstrated independent and effective problem solving and decision‑making skills.
• A strong commitment to safety and safety procedures.
• Driver's License
  
  Required:
  
  This position requires a valid driver's license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle due to the nature of job duties, which include frequent travel to various client locations across a large geographical area.

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