Field Biologist

Company Profile

The Santa Ana Watershed Association (SAWA) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration and enhancement of the natural resources in the Santa Ana River watershed located in Southern California. SAWA collaborates with many local and regional stakeholders and resource agencies to affect large-scale, science-based habitat restoration, biological monitoring and endangered species recovery. The Biological Monitoring Program (BMP) of the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) for Western Riverside County is responsible for monitoring 146 covered species and associated habitats as outlined in the MSHCP. At this time, we are pleased to announce an opening for MSHCP Field Biologist. This is a full-time non-exempt position with a Monday through Friday work schedule. Benefits include an S-125 medical plan with a $700 monthly stipend; a retirement plan with 6% employer contribution; and paid leave following a 90 day probationary period. The MSHCP BMP department fosters a talented, highly skilled and energized workforce. SAWA is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity in the workplace.

Job Description

The Field Biologist for the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Biological Monitoring Program will work in the field 80% of the time surveying and collecting data for the 146 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and plants covered by the MSHCP. The other 20% of the time will be spent in the office entering and checking data for the species surveyed, organizing/cleaning equipment in the warehouse, inspecting work vehicles, and attending occasional meetings and training. The Field Biologist will work both independently and with a team of biologists to collect data in the field across a wide range of habitats and environmental conditions. Data collection for this position occurs year-round and spans a 1.2-million-acre area encompassing coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, chaparral, vernal pools, and montane forest ecosystems, and often requiring extensive daily driving. Field Biologists receive training on species identification from Taxa Leads at the start of each survey and will receive training and certification to survey for federally protected species as necessary.

Primary duties include:

• Conduct biological surveys for Covered wildlife, rare plant species and native vegetation communities.
• Collect data using tablets, Survey 123, or datasheets. Prepare maps using ArcGIS and Google Earth; prepare survey station waypoints for upload to GPS units.
• Collect field data in the prescribed manner, following established protocols.
• Digitize data using an established Microsoft Access database, and perform quality assurance checks on entered data.
• Assist with reports, posters, and presentation preparation.
• Attend meetings and training as assigned.
• Complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision in a timely fashion.
• Expected to operate 4WD vehicles, digital equipment, and GPS units,
• May conduct the following activities, with support of other lead staff: design and oversee short- term field survey efforts, including protocol writing, training of inexperienced staff, and management of day-to-day field survey logistics; conduct and interpret statistical analysis of survey data; write survey summaries or reports.

Basic Requirements:

• Two years of experience conducting biological surveys, preferably for more than one taxonomic
• Knowledge of southern California flora, and the ability to identify targeted and co-occurring species in western Riverside Experience using dichotomous keys, especially the Jepson Manual, is particularly desirable.
• Experience conducting surveys for, and handling rare, sensitive, and federally- or state-listed wildlife or
• Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office products and mapping programs, including ArcGIS and Google
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with a variety of groups and
• Ability to work cooperatively with others, and independently with little to no
• Ability to record ecological data clearly and
• Ability to work long days and occasional evening shifts
• Ability to work under, and tolerate exposure to, variable environmental conditions (e.g., rough uneven terrain, mud, aquatic environments, seasonally harsh temperatures, etc.), and be capable of carrying a 25 to 30-pound backpack.
• Must complete training for, and be willing to use, Wilderness First Aid and CPR.
• Possession of a valid U.S. Driver’s License and U.S. citizenship or the ability to work legally in the U.S. (Declaration of Permission to Work form required).

Education:

Successful completion of a full four-year course of study at an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s degree that included a major field of study in ecology, biology, botany, wildlife management, or other closely related field.

Supervision:

The Field Biologist is a full-time hourly position that works under the direct supervision of the Biologist Supervisor.

Compensation:

Position Salary Range: $25.79 – $33.01 (commensurate with experience)

Employment Requirements:

• Valid state driver’s license with current proof of driving
• Final candidate will be subject to a physical exam, drug screening test and background