Wildlife Biologist

About Wildlife Innovations Inc.:

Wildlife Innovations is a DGS-certified small and micro business specializing in environmental consulting with a focus on wildlife research and management. Our mission is to support the protection and recovery of listed species, ensure environmental compliance, and mitigate risks to human health and safety. Our extensive experience spans managing diverse wildlife species across project sites that range from highly developed to undeveloped areas. Examples of project sites include busy construction sites, airports, military installations, ports, busy public beaches, or within less developed areas such as state and regional parks, and ecological reserves.

At Wildlife Innovations, we are committed to understanding the intricate relationships between species within local ecosystems and the stressors created by human modifications to the landscape. We believe that effective management programs rely on a deep understanding of the ecological and behavioral factors driving local ecosystems. To achieve this, we prioritize intensive monitoring using advanced physical and digital surveillance techniques. Our approach also emphasizes the design, testing, and implementation of innovative strategies that resolve wildlife conflicts, enhance effectiveness, increase reproductive success of focal species, and reduce negative impacts to native flora and fauna.

Job Summary:

The Wildlife Biologist will be responsible for assisting with surveillance of avian and mammalian predators of California Least Terns and Western Snowy Plovers within eastern San Francisco Bay. To Achieve this, the Biologist will conduct visual surveillance and operate digital camera systems to identify predator and prey presence and help evaluate behavior. Note, this position requires a high proficiency in avian species identification (especially raptors) in California, by sight and sound. The biologist will record all observed disturbance and predation of listed species, maintaining detailed digital data logs of all observations. Surveillance will be conducted twice per week and include point count surveys, predator transects (by foot), and focused monitoring of nesting sites. Surveillance will be conducted for approximately eight (8) hours per day, most often beginning in late morning, starting in April and continuing into July of 2025. In addition to digital data collection, a summary report will be completed and submitted following completion of each day. Additionally, the Biologist may perform general bird and/or nesting bird surveys, as needed. Note, depending upon performance and experience, the term of services with Wildlife Innovations may be extended.

Compliance Obligations:

• Maintain compliance with Federal, State, and Local laws and Wildlife Innovations standard operating procedures.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Wildlife from an accredited University, or a closely related field required;
• Minimum of two (2) seasons applicable professional experience;
• California Driver’s License or ability to obtain one once hired;
• Ability to diligently conduct surveys and accurately record detailed field observational data;
• High proficiency in accurately identify avian species in California, by sight, sound, and track, and down to species, age, and sex (when applicable);
• Professional experience conducting wildlife surveys, collecting/logging detailed data, and preparation of technical reports;
• Experience with digital camera deployment, operation, and maintenance.
• Experience with using and maintaining optics, including binoculars and spotting scopes;
• Extensive experience/proficiency in MS Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and SharePoint;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Willingness to travel to various project sites in a single day;
• Ability to conduct surveys for sometimes long and continuous periods of time;
• Ability to shift between standing, walking, reaching, and stooping throughout the day;
• Ability to lift or carry up to 50lbs (while hiking) and over uneven terrain, possibly while wearing waders or mud boots, or in sand;
• Willingness to work in inclement weather, including heat, rain, fog, etc.; and
• Ability to hike up to ten (3) miles per day, but more commonly one (1) mile

Desired Experience, Licenses, and Experience:

• Scientific Collecting Permit or other permits
• Project Management Experience;
• Experience operating in sensitive species habitat;
• MS in Wildlife Science, or a related field, at an accredited University;
• Experience in the handling, banding, tagging, and/or placement of transmitters on wildlife;
• ArcGIS or mapping software certifications/experience; and
• Experience preparing annual reports, including data analysis

Job Type: Part-time/Temporary

Compensation: $35-$45/Hour (DOE), Sick Pay

Wildlife Innovations Inc.  provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.