As-Needed Field Biologist (San Diego)

About Us
We are an award-winning California-based environmental consulting firm with 600+ professionals and more than 30 years of diverse experience serving clients in transportation, energy, water, infrastructure, private development, and government sectors. Our mission is to deliver practical, science-based environmental and planning solutions that support communities, infrastructure, and natural systems

As a people-centric organization we value collaboration, fairness, and transparency, and are committed to fostering a workplace that supports both personal and professional growth while offering robust career opportunities. We are especially proud of our recent Great Place To Work® certification, which reflects an independent assessment of our culture and our team member experiences. 

About The Role

We are seeking a San Diego-based Field Biologist – As-Needed to provide biological monitoring and compliance support for projects throughout San Diego County and beyond. This role is well suited for an experienced biological generalist who can work independently, understand and apply regulatory permit requirements, and communicate effectively with construction crews and project teams. 

Near-term assignments are anticipated in Chula Vista and San Marcos, with individual projects ranging from approximately two weeks to two months. Because this is an as-needed position, the timing and number of hours will vary based on project needs and are not guaranteed.
 

What You'll Do

• Conduct biological compliance monitoring during construction activities. 

• Review and apply project-specific permit conditions, mitigation measures, environmental commitments, and monitoring requirements. 

• Conduct preconstruction surveys and identify appropriate buffers or other required protective measures. 

• Communicate biological restrictions and permit requirements clearly and professionally to construction crews, inspectors, and project managers. 

• Identify and document potential compliance concerns and coordinate promptly with the appropriate project team members. 

• Prepare accurate daily monitoring logs, field notes, preconstruction survey reports, and other compliance documentation. 

• Conduct habitat assessments and identify common and special-status plant and wildlife species found in Southern California. 

• Work independently in the field while maintaining regular communication with project managers and technical leads. 

• Support additional biological surveys and Natural Resources projects as needed. 

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field. 

• 3+ years of environmental consulting experience, including construction compliance monitoring. 

• Experience conducting nesting bird surveys and monitoring active nests. 

• Ability to understand and implement regulatory permit conditions, mitigation measures, and project-specific environmental requirements. 

• Familiarity with Southern California habitats and common and special-status plant and wildlife species. 

• Confidence communicating environmental requirements to construction personnel and working collaboratively to maintain compliance. 

• Ability to work independently, exercise sound professional judgment, and recognize when an issue should be elevated. 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including experience preparing monitoring logs, field reports, and other technical documentation. 

• Willingness and flexibility to work extended hours, including 10–12+ hour days, as project needs require. 

• Ability to conduct fieldwork in variable weather conditions and on uneven terrain, including hiking while carrying field equipment. 

• Ability to travel to project sites throughout Southern California and drive Rincon or personal vehicles across a variety of road conditions. 

Compensation
The hourly rate for this as-needed position ranges from $32.00–$45.00 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and responsibilities. Salary ranges are based on the market median of similar jobs, according to third-party salary benchmark surveys. Base pay is determined based on internal equity and a candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. 

Additional Employment Information
Individuals offered employment must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of employment. Additionally, those hired who may be assigned to federal projects will be subject to further drug testing, including screening for cannabinoids (THC/marijuana), in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and other applicable federal regulations, which take precedence over California state and local laws.
 

Rincon Consultants does not accept unsolicited applicant/candidate resumes from search firm recruiters and/or temporary agencies that do not have a signed contract and specified work order with Rincon Consultants. Further, such resumes received will be deemed the sole property of Rincon Consultants and no fees will be paid in the event Rincon Consultants subsequently hires such individual. Rincon Consultants is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.