Managing Consultant, Biologist; Senior Level

As part of the continued growth and innovation of our dynamic Impact Assessment & Planning service,
ERM has an opportunity for an experienced Biologist
, looking to join our thriving global consulting firm as a senior biologist in Northern California
. Primarily this position will provide biological expertise and leadership for large-scale utility projects in northern California. We seek an individual to join the ERM’s planning, biological and environmental compliance team for an ongoing contract with a large California utility to support their Vegetation Management operations and maintenance activities.

The ideal candidate will be an environmental professional with a wide breadth of experience with wildlife, plants and habitats in central and northern California. They will have proven leadership, project management, organization and communication skills, as well as excellent technical writing skills and knowledge of environmental regulations and policies such as ESA, CESA and the California Coastal Act. They will also have subject matter expertise in special‑status plants and animals.

The biologist must be able to work well with others as part of a collaborative, dynamic team of environmental professionals. This is primarily a desk‑based role, with opportunities for occasional fieldwork.

• Lead on preparation of CEQA and NEPA documents, ESA Biological Assessments, CDFW 1602 permits, and more.
• Ensure project compliance with environmental regulations and permitting requirements.
• Review Biological Resource Assessments.
• Mentor early career scientists and provide technical QA/QC assistance on deliverables.
• Prepare proposals, including development of scopes and cost estimates, and participate in business development with existing clients.
• Adhere to scope, budget, schedule expectations and ensure quality standards on project deliverables and timely delivery of reports.
• Build strong collaborative relationships with clients and other ERM employees.
• Fulfill other assigned duties as required.

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science, ecology, natural science, environmental science or related subject.
• 4+ years in environmental consulting or experience with biota in Northern California.
• Expertise with federal and state regulations including the California Coastal Act, CESA, ESA and/or CEQA, and environmental assessments.
• Technical expertise in environmental permitting.
• Technical writing and analysis skills.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and time‑management skills.
• Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines in a demanding work environment.
• Positive outlook, self‑starter, with a collaborative work ethic.
• Strong commitment to safety, including following established health and safety protocols.

• Master’s degree in a biological science, ecology, natural science, environmental science or related subject.
• Prior experience in the power sector.

Annual base pay range: $85,000 – $106,972 USD. Pay is based on education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, shift, travel requirements, and business or organizational needs. This role may also be eligible for bonus pay. Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k) and other benefits. Benefits eligibility depends on employment status and hours worked.

ERM is a proud Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.