Ecologist NEW

The United States Department of Defense is hiring an Ecologist for the Conservation Branch at Fort Johnson, LA. The role involves ensuring military compliance with environmental regulations, particularly NEPA, by analyzing project impacts on ecosystems and collaborating with stakeholders. Candidates need a relevant degree, NEPA experience, and strong ecological knowledge. Benefits include health insurance and paid time off. Occasional travel (5%) is required.
About the position

The Department of Defense is seeking a qualified Ecologist to join the Conservation Branch within the Environmental and Natural Resources Management Division at Fort Johnson. This position plays a critical role in ensuring that military missions comply with environmental regulations, particularly the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The Ecologist will serve as the Installation NEPA Coordinator, responsible for analyzing the environmental impacts of various military projects on local ecosystems. This includes designing and implementing plans to ensure compliance with NEPA policies, laws, and regulations, thereby safeguarding the natural resources and ecological integrity of the installation. In this role, the Ecologist will conduct thorough assessments of proposed military activities, evaluating their potential effects on flora, fauna, and overall ecosystem health. The incumbent will collaborate with various stakeholders, including military personnel, environmental agencies, and community organizations, to address ecological concerns and promote sustainable practices. The position requires a strong understanding of environmental regulations and the ability to communicate complex ecological concepts to diverse audiences. The successful candidate will be expected to stay updated on environmental legislation and best practices in ecological management, ensuring that the installation adheres to all relevant laws and guidelines. This position may also involve occasional travel for training or collaboration with other agencies, with an estimated travel requirement of 5% of the time. The Ecologist will be expected to maintain a valid state Driver's License and complete a pre-employment physical examination as part of the hiring process.

Responsibilities
• Serve as the Installation National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Coordinator.
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• Analyze projects concerning the effects of military missions upon ecosystems at Fort Johnson.
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• Design plans and measures to ensure compliance with NEPA policies, laws, and regulations.
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• Provide technical assistance regarding ecological concerns to other personnel.
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• Interface with various groups, organizations, and agencies to resolve ecological problems and exchange information.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field of science with at least 30 semester hours in biological sciences, including 9 hours in ecology and 12 hours in physical and mathematical sciences.
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• One year of specialized experience in NEPA, including preparing and reviewing environmental impact assessments and statements.
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• Mastery of NEPA and in-depth knowledge of Executive Orders and environmental regulations.
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• Ability to provide technical assistance regarding ecological concerns and interface with various stakeholders.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience in Clean Water Act Section 404 permitting, including wetland delineations.

Benefits
• Comprehensive benefits package as a federal employee, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.