Bat Biologist - Site Lead

About the opportunity

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Bat Biologist to join our growing bat biology program. It is intended that the successful candidate will join the team in our Chicago, IL office, though may be located anywhere within the Indiana bat range. Primary duties for successful candidates will include conducting surveys for bats using mist-net and acoustic survey techniques, report writing, and assisting with other surveys (e.g., avian surveys, wetland delineations, species-specific surveys).

This full-time position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. Remote work consideration will be given to qualified candidates. Lodging and travel expenses will be covered.

What you will accomplish

• Conduct surveys and collection of field data for bats, other wildlife, and other natural resources
• Use topographic maps, aerial photographs, GPS units, and other maps and tools to determine exact locations of project areas, habitat types, and associated landforms
• Drive 4WD vehicles in rugged terrain
• May conduct biological data/literature searches and reviews
• Conduct habitat assessments and site characterization studies
• Prepare reports describing survey methodologies and results
• Assist with Endangered Species Act compliance coordination

Experience and qualifications for success

Minimum Qualifications:

• Hold a Federal Fish and Wildlife Section 10(a)(1)(A) permit for listed bat species to include, at a minimum, Indiana bat, gray bat, and northern long-eared bat
• Minimum of B.A. or B.S. in Biology, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, or a related field
• Minimum 2 years of demonstrated field experience with bat species of the eastern and central U.S. and appropriate survey techniques

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hold a 10(a)(1)(A) permit for Ozark big-eared bats and/or Virginia big-eared bats in addition to species listed above
• Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrable skill sets and experience in addition to bat surveys such as: wetland delineation, avian survey techniques, and botanical survey experience
• Experience conducting manual review of acoustic survey data
• Experience preparing scientific reports and environmental permitting documentation
• Must have proof of current rabies vaccination
• Ability to conduct fieldwork for long hours in inclement weather conditions. Ability to walk up to 10 miles per day, often in rugged terrain. May have to carry equipment and/or supplies, weighing up to 40 pounds
• Extensive travel and night work will be required during the summer months

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a growing employee-owned firm, providing a full spectrum of environmental services. With offices across the United States, SWCA is one of the largest environmental compliance firms and ranks among Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms.

SWCA offers a comprehensive benefits package, which includes participation in our ESOP program. Take a glance at some of our benefits by going to https://www.swca.com/careers/totalrewards/benefits

EOE - women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply

If you would like to contact SWCA regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the online application process due to a disability, please email accommodations@swca.com or call 1-480-581-5378. This contact information is for disability accommodation requests only. All other inquiries will not receive a response.

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