[MB advising: see link at bottom of post to full job posting and application details (will expire when position is filled). Job details are excerpts from the full position description and do not necessarily include full details. Job details are provided for the purposes of career exploration.]

Staff Biologist – Bellingham, WA (Regular Full-Time)

As a Staff Biologist, you will be responsible for collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams working on public and private-sector projects across the Puget Sound region and throughout the greater Pacific Northwest. Typical project work involves fish passage, stream and river restoration, wetland identification and mitigation, transportation and utility improvements, and parks and trails development.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Gather and analyze publicly available maps and databases of geology, LiDAR, soils, streams, fish use, passage barriers, wetlands, floodplains/frequently flooded areas and other documented sensitive and priority habitats and priority/listed species at the project site and in the project vicinity.
• In freshwater systems: conduct OHWM delineations, habitat surveys, fish passage surveys, and assist with geomorphic assessments.
• In marine systems: conduct OHWM delineations, high tide line assessments, habitat surveys, eelgrass delineations, and forage fish surveys.
• Assist in developing reports documenting instream and riparian habitat including stream geomorphology.
• Assist in developing plans and reports related to instream fish habitat and passage improvements, including: culvert or bridge replacements, bank or levee repair, utility crossings, channel and riparian habitat enhancement, floodplain connectivity improvements, and stormwater upgrades.
• Conduct wetland delineations and prepare delineation reports in accordance with USACE manuals.
• Use Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to document the location of critical features identified at field sites.
• Rate wetlands using the WA State Department of Ecology Wetland Rating Systems and prepare rating exhibits using GIS.
• Assist in preparation of critical areas reports, impacts assessments, and mitigation plans.
• Assist in preparing Floodplain Habitat Assessments and Biological Evaluations/ Assessments for Endangered Species Act consultation.
• Complete permit applications and supporting documentation (e.g., SEPA/NEPA, Shoreline, JARPA, HPA).

Qualifications

• BS or BA in Biology, Environmental Science, Watershed Science or equivalent.
• Ability to perform wide range of physical activities and field work.
• Ability to consistently meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced work environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework or degrees pertaining to fisheries science.
• Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro software and GPS technology (GeoXH Trimble unit, TerraSync software, ArcPad software, or similar).
• Life history strategies, habitat requirements, and field identification of fish species found in Washington State, particularly resident marine and anadromous species.
• Ecology and dynamics of freshwater and marine systems.
• Knowledge and experience with Pacific Northwest native plants and wildlife.
• Knowledge and experience with soils and wetland science.
• Regulatory framework at the local, state, and federal levels.

Our Commitment to Belonging at GeoEngineers

When people feel they can bring their whole selves to work, that they have a voice and are supported and respected, it creates trust and a feeling of belonging— employees then flourish, grow their careers, and do the best work of their lives. They are more innovative and creative, more productive, and better able to serve our clients and communities. A culture of belonging allows our employees to thrive and our company to prosper. This is a journey. We are committed to doing the work, learning, and evolving as we go.
GeoEngineers is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage candidates from all backgrounds and experiences to apply for roles on our team. Whoever you are, just be you.

full position description/application (link expires when position is filled)