On‑Call Wildlife Biologist/Avian Biologist

Employment Type

On-Call

About Us

EcoSystems West Consulting Group is a Santa Cruz–based ecological and environmental consulting firm with expertise in natural resource inventory, assessment, and management across California since 1996. We support municipal, state, and private clients—including cities, counties, and conservation organizations—offering science-based solutions through habitat assessments, special-status species surveys, CEQA/NEPA analysis, permitting, and construction compliance monitoring. EcoSystems West is a small local company that provides needs-based solutions to our clients based on sound biological principles and extensive knowledge of regional biological resources. We have a reputation for regulatory expertise, excellent documentation, and collaborative project delivery with agencies and stakeholders.

Job Description

• Conduct pre-construction nesting bird surveys during the breeding bird season, identifying nesting activities by sight and sound, and monitoring active nests in accordance with species-specific buffer requirements and permit conditions (e.g., per MBTA and Fish and Game Code guidances).
•  Perform biological monitoring and compliance oversight during construction activities.
• Submit daily monitoring reports, with field notes, geotagged photos, and spatial documentation (as needed).
• Use Google Earth, ArcGIS Field Maps, or Survey123 to collect spatial data and support compliance documentation.
• Communicate proactively with contractors, project managers, and senior staff to address field observations or compliance concerns.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• BA/BS in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• At least 1 year of field experience or demonstrated knowledge with biological field work in central California.
• Ability to identify California bird species by sight and sound.
• Knowledge of the nesting habits of Coastal California bird species.
• 1-2 seasons experience conducting nesting bird surveys.
• Experienced working in rugged terrain and outdoor conditions, often for extended hours.
• Clear, professional verbal and written communication skills for field reporting and interaction with crews or scientists.
• Valid California driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Preferred Experience

• Prior experience conducting nesting bird buffer monitoring or exclusion zone implementation.
• Familiarity with special-status wildlife species and California ecosystems.
• Comfortable monitoring environmental regulatory compliance on active construction sites.
• Understanding of relevant environmental regulations and permitting requirements.
• Proficiency using Google Earth, Survey123, or ArcGIS Field Maps for field data collection and mapping.

Work Conditions & Compensation

• Hourly Pay: $30–45/hour, depending on experience.
• Scheduling: On-call, project-based; flexibility required, variable hours.
• Travel: All travel time to project sites will be billed starting at our local Santa Cruz office.
• Commutes from out of the area will not be covered, so candidates based locally are encouraged to apply.
•  Coverage Area: Primarily Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay Area.
• Project-specific training provided.

How to Apply

Send a resume and brief introduction to:

info@ecosystemswest.com