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Principal Biologist - Leadership Opportunity

Position Overview
A well-established employee-owned environmental consulting firm is looking for a strategic hire of a seasoned Principal Biologist to join its Natural Resources team. This role requires a minimum of 15 years of relevant consulting experience, including at least 2 years in a Principal or similar senior leadership position. The successful candidate will be a skilled technical expert with strong business development capabilities, playing a vital role in project management, client relationship building, team leadership, and the delivery of high-quality biological services.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Business Development

Collaborate with firm leadership to drive strategic growth.

Develop new business opportunities, manage project budgets, and ensure high standards in project deliverables.

Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders.

Mentor, supervise, and guide technical staff within the Natural Resources team.

Technical Expertise & Project Management

Lead biological surveys, impact assessments, and technical reporting on wildlife, vegetation, and sensitive species.

Manage wetland delineations, agency permitting, and mitigation planning.

Provide technical review and quality control for deliverables, including CEQA/NEPA biological sections, habitat conservation plans, reports, and permit applications.

Oversee regulatory permitting and compliance, ensuring alignment with federal and state regulations.

Manage multidisciplinary project teams, ensuring timelines, budgets, and scopes are met.

Client & Regulatory Engagement

Represent the firm in client meetings and discussions with regulatory agencies.

Scope projects, prepare detailed proposals, and develop budgets aligned with client needs.

Lead habitat restoration planning and oversee mitigation monitoring efforts.

Technical Skills & Qualifications

Expertise in biological resource assessments (CEQA/NEPA), botanical and wildlife surveys, and wetland delineations.

Strong background in regulatory compliance, permitting, and mitigation for projects involving sensitive species and habitats.

Extensive knowledge of California flora and fauna.

Proficient in GIS data collection and analysis.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree (B.S./B.A.) in Biology, Botany, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a related field.

15+ years of relevant consulting experience, including at least 2 years as a Principal or senior-level biologist.

Proven leadership, business development, and project management experience.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Expertise in federal and state regulations (e.g., Sections 404, 401, 1602; MSHCP/HCP/NCCP compliance).

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and GIS software.

Valid driver's license, clean driving record, and access to a personal vehicle.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range: $150,000 to $200,000, depending on qualifications and experience.

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, vacation and sick time, paid holidays, employee ownership opportunities, 401(k) with company match, bonus programs, wellness initiatives, and flexible work arrangements.

ewi is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. ewi is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.