Biodiversity Specialist

4 weeks ago

Cortland, United States National Experienced Workforce Solutions Full time
Position Title: Endangered Species Biologist
Location: Cortland
Program: FWS
Compensation: $54.17 per hour
Work Schedule: 24 hours per week - Estimated total of 984 hours
Eligibility: Minimum age of 55

The Fish and Wildlife Service Experienced Services Program aims to forge a distinctive partnership to address workforce challenges faced by government entities. This initiative connects seasoned professionals (aged 55 and above) with the Fish and Wildlife Service to deliver scientific, technical, and administrative support for priority programs and mandates. Participants in this program, referred to as Enrollees, are not classified as employees of FWS or National Experienced Workforce Solutions (NEW Solutions). NEW Solutions serves as the administrative body for the program, while Enrollees operate under the guidance of Fish and Wildlife Service staff to assist in fulfilling the Agency's mission. Enrollees benefit from opportunities to maintain their technical expertise, access new training, engage in meaningful project-based roles, and leverage their skills to positively impact the environment and the economy while enhancing their financial stability. A background security investigation may be necessary prior to commencement. Details regarding location, hours, and compensation are outlined in this position description. FWS ESP roles are intended to provide temporary, project-based assistance, currently funded for approximately 984 hours at 24 hours per week (subject to budgetary adjustments).

Qualifications:

Minimum of 5 years of experience in Endangered Species Act consultations OR a BA/BS Degree in Endangered Species/Bats/Environmental Impacts (Master's Degree preferred).

  • Completion of FWS interagency consultation training.
  • Proficiency in Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, MS SharePoint, MS Teams, and MS Outlook.
  • Experience with ArcGIS Pro is preferred.
Responsibilities:

The Enrollee will assist the Service in addressing time-sensitive reviews related to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for a significant project impacting ESA-listed bat species in central New York. The ideal candidate will possess subject matter expertise on listed bats and experience in reviewing and drafting environmental compliance documents under NEPA and ESA.

  • Review and provide feedback on NEPA documents related to the project (15%)
  • Review and provide feedback on Section 7 documents associated with the project (25%)
  • Draft and edit the FWS Biological Opinion (BiOp) pertinent to the project (50%)
  • Conduct literature reviews and compile references cited in the BiOp (10%)
Additional Information:
  • Travel Requirements: Undetermined, infrequent, and unlikely. May involve travel to local FWS/Fed office for onboarding activities.
  • Remote work options are available for this position.

NEW Solutions is dedicated to fostering equal opportunity and maintaining an environment free from discrimination and harassment in all forms while administering Experienced Worker Programs in collaboration with federal agencies. It is the policy of NEW Solutions to adhere to all applicable laws that ensure equal opportunity and to prohibit unlawful discrimination in the enrollment of participants in federal programs.