Biologist/Ecologist

Insight Global is hiring a Wildlife Biologist for a 3-month contract in LA County, focusing on assessing and mitigating ecological impacts from the Palisade wildfires. Responsibilities include evaluating bird populations, mapping habitats, and conducting field surveys. Candidates should have a degree in Biology or Ecology, ideally with experience in wildlife monitoring. The position requires working 60+ hours per week outdoors, with travel and accommodations provided.
Before applying, please review all the details outlined below. This position plays a vital role in addressing the environmental impact and devastation caused by the Palisade wildfires in LA County.

Position: Wildlife Biologist (LA Wildfires)

Location: LA County

Duration: 3-month contract (likelihood for extensions)

Start Date: May 5th

Pay Rate: $20-40/hr (Dependent on years of experience)

Hours: Seeking candidates dedicated to working 7 days a week, 10-hour shifts (Could potentially become 6 days a week with every Sunday off.)

Mobilization and Expenses: Client will provide travel, per diem, and housing accommodations when on travel, unless local to the site (50 mile radius.)

Safety Equipment: All necessary safety equipment will be provided, except for steel-toed boots and prescription safety goggles (if applicable).

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

Wildlife Biologists will prioritize assessing and mitigating the ecological impacts of the Palisades wildfires across LA County, with a specific emphasis on avian species and habitats. Key responsibilities include:
• Assessing Bird Impacts: Conduct field surveys to evaluate how wildfires have affected bird populations, nesting sites, and migration routes.
• Habitat Evaluations: Map burned areas and identify critical bird habitats, such as nesting trees, feeding grounds, and migration corridors.
• Bird Monitoring: Use techniques like bird banding, acoustic monitoring, camera traps, and direct observation to study post-fire bird activity and population shifts.
• Sampling for Avian Ecosystems: Collect and analyze soil, vegetation, and water samples to understand contamination risks and habitat recovery conditions vital to bird survival.
• Species Recovery Efforts: Focus on displaced or endangered bird species by supporting their relocation, rehabilitation, and protection.
• Restoration Planning for Birds: Develop strategies to restore vegetation and improve conditions for bird recovery, including erosion control and native plant replanting for food and shelter.
• Collaborating on Hazardous Sites: Work with hazardous material survey teams to ensure bird habitats and needs are prioritized in environmental mitigation plans.
• Field Documentation: Record observations, sampling data, and bird behavior patterns using tablets for efficient reporting and targeted analysis.

Candidate Requirements
• BS/BA degree in Biology, Ecology, or related field (preferred: Wildlife Biology).
• An Associate's degree will be considered with strong field experience in wildlife or ecological studies.
• Ideally 1+ years of experience in ecological assessments or wildlife monitoring, particularly in wildfire-affected areas.
• Familiarity with wildlife survey techniques and ecological restoration principles.
• Ability to work 60+ hours per week in outdoor environments under challenging conditions.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Requires passing a motor vehicle record (MVR) background check and maintaining a safe driving record.
• Medically cleared to wear a respirator if required during hazardous site work.