Lead Level Biologist - Desert Tortoise

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Lead-Level Biologist - Tortoise to join our Natural Resources team in Las Vegas, NV. In this role, you will support various projects across renewable energy, transmission, infrastructure, restoration, local agency, etc., sectors.

This requisition can be hired at three levels:

• Lead Biologist -- Typically with at least six (6) years of relevant industry experience and expertise; eight (8) years preferred.
• Senior Biologist -- Typically with at least eight (8) years of relevant industry experience and expertise; ten (10) years preferred
• Principal Biologist - Typically with at least ten (10) years of relevant industry experience and expertise; twelve (12) years preferred

This is a hybrid opportunity based out of Las Vegas, NV. Priority will be given to applicants in Nevada or the desert Southwest. Depending on project needs and geographic location of the applicant, this position may require up to 15% travel within Nevada to support fieldwork, client engagement, and regional coordination. You will work closely with clients, leadership, and multidisciplinary teams to guide project direction, ensure technical quality, and support successful delivery. This role offers the opportunity to mentor staff, lead technical work, and play a key role in advancing projects and client success. 

This is a regular (with benefits), salaried, exempt position.  Hybrid work environments are encouraged.  Highly qualified individuals from remote (=distributed) locations in Nevada or the Desert SW are encouraged to apply.

• →Lead or conduct biological natural resource field surveys collecting observational and spatial data concerning a variety of vegetation, terrestrial and/or avian species. Use topographic maps, aerial photographs, GPS units, and other maps and tools to determine exact locations of project areas, habitat types, and associated landforms.
• →Lead, complete, and provide quality control for biological survey reports, data entry, impact assessments, and assist in Endangered Species Act, wetland delineations and/or Clean Water Act permitting. Conduct research as appropriate and assist with proposal and budget development.
• →Adhere to the safety program and looks out for the safety of others, promptly communicating and mitigating safety hazards.
• →Oversee or use radio-telemetry to track Mojave desert tortoise, sometimes in rugged terrain.
• →Assist in overseeing compliance projects including ensuring accurate staffing and compliance with necessary project-specific permits.

Knowledge normally obtained through a bachelor's degree. Six years of relevant, progressively responsible experience, including some experience managing others. Eight years of related experience is preferred; or any equivalent combination of experience, performance, training, and/or education.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or related field.
• Six (6) years of relevant, progressively responsible experience, including some experience managing others; or any equivalent combination of experience, performance, training, and/or education.
• Previous experience working on compliance projects in Southern Nevada or California.
• Ability to work up to 10 hours in the field in a desert environment.
• Previous experience working towards approval as an Authorized Desert Tortoise Biologist, including a mix of surveying and monitoring.

Actual pay may vary based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other factors permitted by law. Eligible employees may also receive performance-based bonuses. As a 100% employee-owned company, we invest in your future. Our Total Rewards package includes an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, 401(k) with profit sharing, medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, wellness programs, and professional development opportunities.

If you need accommodation due to a disability, please contact accommodations@swca.com or call 1 480 581 5378. If you require assistance with the application process, please contact recruiting@swca.com.

SWCA may use approved technology, including AI-assisted tools, to support parts of the application and recruiting process. All selection and hiring decisions are made by SWCA employees, and candidates are not selected or rejected by automated systems. We are committed to a fair, transparent, and human-centered hiring experience. 

Candidates may use AI tools to help prepare application materials and interviews. However, all application materials, assessments, and interview responses must accurately reflect their own experience, skills, and qualifications. AI must not be used to fabricate experience, complete assessments on their behalf, or otherwise misrepresent their background or abilities. 

SWCA Environmental Consultants is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive. 

SWCA continues to invest deeply in career development programs, delivering our award-winning Career Landscape support resources to accelerate the growth of our staff. We recognize the valuable skills and experiences our internal team members bring to SWCA’s continued success. Qualified internal candidates are encouraged to apply and will be seriously considered for this position. We believe in promoting from within, where possible, providing our existing employees with compelling opportunities to advance their careers.

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