Wetland Biologist

Job Title: Senior Wetland Biologist (On-Call, 1099 Independent Contractor)

Position Summary

BOW is seeking an experienced senior-level wetland biologist to serve as an on-call independent contractor (1099), engaged on an as-needed, project-by-project basis, to lead the planning and implementation of all aspects of our wetland delineations to support renewable energy projects and other types of development (e.g., transportation, transmission, industrial etc.). The ideal candidate will lead and oversee field teams for large and small field delineation projects, conduct plant and habitat assessments, QAQC data, process data in a GIS system, draft wetland delineation and other reports. Engagements will involve a mix of field and remote work, with travel to project sites. Work is offered as projects arise with no guaranteed minimum hours, and the contractor may accept or decline any engagement. Depending on qualifications and project needs, engagements may also include client management and business development, GIS analysis, environmental surveys (e.g., ASTM Phase 1 ESA), and other protected wildlife species surveys.

Scope of Services

Services may include the following, as defined in each project scope of work:

• Lead wetland delineation projects and field staff
• Conduct wetland delineations in accordance with US Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation manual and associated regional supplements; using hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology; identify and map jurisdictional wetland boundaries as subject to federal, state, and local regulations
• Conduct surveys and assess project impacts on biological resources, including special status plant species and habitats
• Apply knowledge of the Clean Water Act, and relevant state and local regulations.
• Coordinate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for jurisdictional determinations
• Draft and complete state and federal wetland and waterway permitting
• Develop budgets and scopes of work for wetland delineations and other environmental tasks
• Coordinate with multi-disciplinary teams of engineers, biologists, resource specialists, and other technical and non-technical staff
• Stay abreast of new regulations, requirements, industry developments, trends, and technologies
• Provide technical guidance to project teams as requested
• Additional services (as qualified and requested)
• Client coordination and technical support for proposals
• ASTM Phase 1 ESA surveys and reporting
• GIS analysis, e.g., desktop habitat assessments and mapping
• Protected species surveys and reporting

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• B.S. (or M.S.) degree in Botany, Biology or similar field from accredited university or college
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as wetland scientist leading wetland delineations, botanical surveys and habitat assessments in the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Eastern United States
• Skilled in project management with the ability to multi-task and prioritize critical path tasks
• Excellent communications, prioritization, organization, leadership, and management skills
• Eligible to provide services in the U.S. as an independent contractor
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and satisfactory driving record
• Availability to respond to on-call requests and ability to work independently with minimal oversight

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency with GIS and GPS/GNSS(e.g., ArcGISpro) and or AutoCAD
• The ability to conduct and sign ASTM Phase 1 ESA fieldwork and reports
• Certification as a Professional Wetland Scientist
• Knowledge and experience of wildlife (e.g., avian) identification and surveys
• Own standard field equipment (e.g., soil auger, Munsell soil color charts, GPS unit, PPE)

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the services described above.

• Needs to be able to maintain a good attitude/focus while working in bad weather under difficult conditions
• Will do work that requires a committed effort and high level of motivation and focus
• Able to tolerate working in inclement weather conditions such as precipitation, high winds, prolonged exposure to insects, intense sunlight, and hot, cold, and high humidity is common
• While performing field services, the contractor is regularly required to talk or listen.
• The contractor frequently is required to use hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• The contractor is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit and reach with hands and arms. The contractor must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required for this work include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus
• The ability to walk long distances in rough terrain, dense vegetation, and wet and muddy conditions

Compensation and Engagement Terms

BOW offers competitive rates commensurate with experience. Engagement terms include the following:

• Negotiated hourly or day rate, invoiced per project
• Reimbursement of pre-approved project travel expenses (e.g., mileage, lodging, per diem)
• Flexible, as-needed engagement; contractor sets own schedule and methods within project deadlines and specifications

As an independent contractor, not eligible for employee benefits and responsible for own taxes, insurance, and equipment

Job Type: Contract (1099), on-call/as needed

Pay: $30–$45 per hour (or negotiated day rate), based on experience

Work Location: Remote/field-based, with travel to project sites in the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Eastern United States

Pay: $30.00 - $45.00 per hour

Expected hours: 1.0 – 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Cedar Rapids, IA 52410

Salary : $30 - $45