Overview

Insignia is looking to fill an immediate opening for a Lead Biologist, who will embody Insignia’s vision to be our clients’ most trusted partner, always delivering excellence with integrity. Responsibilities include leading and performing biological fieldwork; conducting biological research; developing impact assessments; assessing biological and waters permitting requirements; coordinating with project teams; and preparing reports. The Lead Biologist also performs environmental and/or biological monitoring to ensure compliance of construction activities with environmental permits and regulations. In addition, the Lead Biologist manages tasks on large projects independently and small-sized projects with oversight. Travel and fieldwork accounts for 40 to 70 percent of this position’s time.

JOB DESCRIPTION

  • Conduct biological field surveys, including biological assessments, special-status species surveys, vegetation mapping, and wetland delineations.
  • Prepare biological documents, including special-status survey reports, biological resources technical reports, and biological resources sections of California Environmental Quality Act/National Environmental Policy Act (CEQA/NEPA) documents.
  • Prepare resource agency permit applications, including Notifications for Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements, Clean Water Act Section 404 and 401 permits, and Endangered Species Act Section 7 and Section 10 documents.
  • With the guidance from Senior Biologists, direct, oversee, and review others’ work to ensure that deliverables can be submitted to the client.
  • Ensure work is conducted within the assigned constraints (i.e., budget and schedule) at the project level.
  • Assist in the preparation of scopes and costs for project proposals.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor of Science degree or higher in biology, ecology, or a related science.
  • 5 years or more of experience in environmental consulting.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in conducting botanical surveys in San Diego County.
  • Familiarity with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Natural Communities, the Jepson Manual, and local floras.
  • Technical expertise in one or more aspects of field biology, such as botany, wildlife biology, or wetland biology; for wildlife biologists, species-handling permits are desired.
  • Demonstrated experience with California species and ecosystems.
  • Knowledge and experience with federal and state regulations, including CEQA/NEPA, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act.
  • Demonstrated ability to complete projects on time and within budget.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills, as well as confidence in dealing with clients, regulators, and team members.
  • Excellent writing and technical editing skills, with advanced experience in Microsoft Office.
  • Rigorously detail-oriented and committed to accuracy.

OTHER

  • Valid driver’s license and good driving record.
  • Willingness and ability to travel when needed.
  • Willingness and ability to work fluctuating and/or long hours as necessary.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • While prioritizing health and safety, this position requires an individual who is able to walk and hike through varying degrees of difficult terrain. Individuals may also be required to perform their job responsibilities in inclement weather conditions.