Project Level Biologist- Field Lead

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a leading environmental consulting firm dedicated to providing high-quality natural resources and planning services. With offices spread across the United States, SWCA stands as one of the largest environmental compliance firms, proudly ranked among Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms. The company is 100 percent employee-owned, which fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment where every team member has a stake in the firm's success. SWCA is committed to sustainability, innovation, and embedding sound science into practical solutions to tackle global environmental challenges. They live by core values such as collaboration (#OneSWCA), continuous learning (#AlwaysLearning), persistence (#NeverSettle), and community engagement (#GiveBack). These values guide their culture and commitment to employee ownership, professional growth, and community impact.

The role of Project Level Biologist - Field Lead based in the Baton Rouge, LA office is a unique and dynamic opportunity within this reputable firm. This position demands a dedicated professional capable of leading natural resource field crews to conduct biological surveys and assessments primarily within the Southern region of the United States. As a full-time, permanent, and non-exempt role with benefits, the position requires significant fieldwork—approximately 65 percent field and 35 percent office-based work—and involves extensive travel to various project sites. These projects may cover diverse sectors such as oil and gas development, pipeline transmission, transportation infrastructure, mining operations, and federal government clients.

Successful candidates will either be hired as Assistant Project Biologists, typically requiring at least three years of relevant experience, or as Associate Project Biologists, generally requiring five or more years of experience. The position carries a competitive hourly wage: Assistant Project Biologists earn between $27.30 and $35.62 per hour, while Associate Project Biologists' pay ranges from $31.20 to $40.04 per hour. This compensation is reflective of experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.

The biologist will be responsible for overseeing field crews, assigning tasks, ensuring project quality and safety standards, and acting as a liaison between field staff and senior management. The role requires the collection of accurate biological data, including habitat assessments, wetland delineation, and wildlife surveys such as avian, small mammal, and herpetofauna studies. Familiarity with GPS technology, particularly Trimble units, and data management skills are critical. Additionally, this position demands that individuals communicate effectively with project managers, landowners, and other stakeholders, as well as assist in report preparation.

SWCA offers a supportive, team-oriented work environment where employees are encouraged to grow professionally through continuous education, participation in conferences, and development programs. Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, dental and vision coverage, employee assistance programs, wellness initiatives, and a 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan. This firm values diversity and inclusion, actively encouraging applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. SWCA is committed to creating an equitable workplace that fosters creativity, innovation, and long-term career advancement for its employees. In summary, this role is ideally suited for environmental professionals looking to lead field operations in a company that values scientific excellence, sustainable practices, and employee development.