Biologist

Job Description

  DescriptionYour role at GEI.   Essential Responsibilities & Duties 

• Conducting biological resource surveys with an emphasis on freshwater mussels.
• Wetland delineations, fisheries surveys, macroinvertebrate sampling, herpetofauna surveys, and habitat surveys.
• Competence in conducting wetland delineations following EGLE and or USACE guidance.
• Soil characterization and identification of hydric soil field indicators.
• Biological literature research, compliance with environmental regulations, and report writing.
• Identification of native plants and knowledge of native plant communities
• Conduct habitat mapping and assessments and surveys for special-status species and other sensitive biological resources at numerous sites throughout Michigan and the Midwest.
• Perform preliminary desktop analysis, prepare technical reports, and assist with other deliverables as needed.
• Effectively communicate with construction crews, project personnel, and agency staff.
• Detailed note taking and preparation of survey reports.
• Operation and maintenance of field equipment including, but not limited to trucks with trailers, boats (non-motorized and motorized), small engines/pumps. 
• Work under physically demanding conditions in variable weather and sometimes difficult terrain including aquatic environments (lakes, rivers, streams, drains).
• Biologists may be required to spend multiple nights per week out of town working at project locations and to work irregular hours (30-55 hours per week, with overtime pay for more than 40 hours a week).

Minimum Qualifications 

• Bachelors or higher degree in fisheries and wildlife, biological sciences, zoology, environmental sciences, or a related field.
• Two (2) to five (5) years of experience in conducting biological surveys including freshwater mussel surveys. 
• Two (2) to five (5) years of experience in conducting wetland delineations. 
• Certified scuba diver with recent dive experience (within last 2 years).
• Excellent organization and communication skills and experience working independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated technical report writing ability including authorship or co-authorship of peer-reviewed literature (i.e., scientific journal articles, technical reports). 
• Working knowledge of relevant environmental statutes and regulations (e.g., CEQA, NEPA, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act) and associated permits.
• Valid U.S. Driver’s license. 
• A clean DMV record and compliance with company safety protocols and procedures.
• Willingness and ability to travel to project/client sites as required. 
• Experience with computers and Microsoft Office suite. 

Desired Qualifications 

• Competence in the identification of freshwater mussel species found in Michigan.
• Significant experience in implementing Michigan’s freshwater mussel protocol for flowing waters.
• Experience obtaining Threatened and Endangered Species permits in Michigan or other Midwest states.
• Successful passing of a freshwater mussel identification course for Michigan, Ohio, and/or Minnesota mussel species.
• Federal Handling Permit (USFWS) for federally-listed mussels found in Michigan waters.
• Current First Aid and CPR training.
• GPS/ArcGIS experience.

We are GEI.  Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.    We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges.    With approximately 60 offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry.  Employee-owned. Employee-focused.  As a 100% employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more.  Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs – we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded – which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI’s career site here.  GEI’s Total Rewards Package Includes 

• Market-Competitive Compensation, including Eligibility for an Annual Performance Bonus
• Comprehensive Benefits Program, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and More
• Well-Being Program and Paid Parental Leave
• Commuter Benefits
• Hybrid Work Schedules and Home Office and Cell Phone Stipends
• GEI University (GEIU) with Continuing Education Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
• Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
• Support and Financial Rewards for Publication Awards, Professional Dues, and Professional Licenses
• Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off Program
• Rewards and Recognition
• GEI-Funded Profit Sharing and 401(k)
• Opportunity to be an Owner and Shareholder (Learn more here)
• A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion