Consulting Biologist – ESA Compliance Specialist – (1788)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST) is a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada. WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data.

WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data. Since its founding in 1990, the WEST team has shaped the foundation of what we do, and what we believe in through our core values and key principles. Our work matters to our clients, communities, and the environment. Join WEST and discover a company of passionate, committed, and highly motivated individuals.

WEST has an exciting, challenging and immediate opportunity for a Consulting Biologist with expertise in Endangered Species Act (ESA) compliance and study of threatened and endangered species ideally located in the Bloomington IN, Camp Hill, PA, or Golden Valley, MN office with the option for remote work.  Preference will be given to applicants that have demonstrated knowledge of ESA compliance and ability to coordinate with and advise clients and agency personnel regarding Section 7 and Section 10 permitting processes.  Past experience studying federally and/or state protected species (particularly wildlife species) is also helpful, as is previous experience with other federal laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Clean Water Act. Join WEST’s collaborative team of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data and help us achieve our mission to provide outstanding professional consulting services and original solutions to a wide range of natural resources challenges.

Please click here to see what benefits WEST offers!

Key Details:

• Salary: The base salary for this Consulting Biologist position is $66,000 – $85,000, plus an annual bonus. Salary may vary based on education, knowledge, and experience.
• Start Date: Start date is flexible, within reason, but may start as early as April 28, 2025.

Job Description:

WEST has numerous projects underway and continues to grow and expand into both the wind and solar market, as well as other markets. Ideal candidates will have experience in wildlife biology, technical writing, and environmental consulting, as well as knowledge of the ESA. Our Consulting Biologist-ESA Compliance Specialist will work individually, as well as with a team of natural resource specialists, scientists, and biometricians to:

• Write and review Habitat Conservation Plans, Biological Assessments, white papers, and other technical documents in support of endangered species permitting or other decision-making.
• Support internal, client, and agency coordination for HCPs and other ESA-related decisions and documents.
• Conduct reviews of peer-reviewed literature, gray literature, and other sources of information relevant to HCPs, BAs, and other ESA-related decisions and documents.
• Prepare proposals.
• Foster current business relationships and promote new business development efforts.
• Promote WEST through high-quality work products and professional conduct.

This position will require occasional overnight travel. 

This is a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of the duties which may be associated with this position.

Requirements and Preferred Skills/Abilities:

The successful candidate will join WEST as a full-time regular Consulting Biologist, depending on experience and skillset, and will be a motivated self-starter who possesses:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree. Preference will be given to candidates with a master’s degree.
• Demonstrated knowledge of ESA compliance and Section 7 and Section 10 permitting processes
• Minimum of five years of professional and/or research experience or three years of experience in environmental consulting.
• Previous project management experience, including business development, marketing, budgeting, proposal writing, and consulting work is preferred.
• A track record of maintaining positive relationships with coworkers, clients, stakeholders, and agency personnel.
• Strong, competent analytical and writing skills with the ability to pay close attention to detail and accurately report results of project investigations and scientific studies, while considering big-picture implications and context.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and oral.
• Good time management, project management, and organizational skills with the ability to work well under time constraints and meet deliverable targets and deadlines.
• Ability and willingness to travel as this position will sometimes require overnight travel to attend project-related meetings with clients, federal and state agencies, and/or site-specific investigations and studies.
• Ability to follow instructions from managers and accept guidance and constructive criticism from colleagues and supervisors.
• Demonstrated regular and reliable work attendance.
• Ability to maintain flexible work hours and adhere to company policies.

After an offer of employment is made, the candidate(s) must be able to pass a background check; a pre-employment drug screen; and a DMV records check that meets WEST’s minimum criteria to operate a motor vehicle on behalf of the company.  A valid driver’s license will be required. 

WEST provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, genetics, and any protected veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.  Further, WEST takes affirmative action to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly, and without discrimination, for recruitment, selection, advancement and every other term and privilege associated with employment.