Field Biologist - Project Manager

Who we are

Founded in 1978, Friends of Ballona Wetlands is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring and protecting Los Angeles’ last coastal wetland and educating our diverse community as stewards of nature. We believe that connecting people with the beauty and importance of natural systems can help them make choices that benefit the land and all the species that depend on it.

What we need

We are seeking a mid-level scientist who possesses a blend of strategic planning, fieldwork expertise, and effective communication skills. The ideal candidate will be adept at designing and executing field surveys, conducting wildlife monitoring, managing grant reporting, and, working closely with the Manager of Habitat Restoration, developing comprehensive restoration plans. In addition to these technical skills, the ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, particularly in fostering collaboration with partner agencies, elected officials, and local government stakeholders to shape restoration policy. This role requires a self-motivated individual comfortable working independently in the field, as well as overseeing and mentoring interns and collaborating with the entire staff during large-scale events. Integral to our team is a deep passion and appreciation for environmental conservation, fundamental qualities that drive our mission of preserving and protecting the Ballona Wetlands.

Required Experience and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field is required; Master’s degree is preferred 
• Proficiency in data management, basic statistical analysis, and ArcGIS Pro
• Demonstrated ability to lead, conduct, and train teams in biological field surveys
• Strong foundation in bird identification and nesting surveys, with a keen willingness to deepen your knowledge base quickly
• Proven track record of project management, effective collaboration, meeting deadlines, and producing relevant progress reports 

Preferred Experience and Skills

• 5+ years professional experience in the environmental conservation field; advanced education beyond a Bachelor’s degree may be considered as additional work experience
• Experience in bird banding 
• Familiarity with environmental permitting processes and regulatory agencies - California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and California Coastal Commission - and with the regulatory environment in California related to restoration projects
• Environmental policy experience
• Strong scientific reporting and technical grant writing experience
• Strong public speaking ability
• Knowledgeable of local flora and fauna

Duties and Responsibilities

Scientific Programs

• Conduct frequent bird surveys, including nesting and status species surveys and facilitate community volunteer supported bird surveys
• Conduct general wildlife surveys 
• Lead the Tree Swallow Nest Box Monitoring and Banding program in partnership with PHAB Lab at LMU, assist with other bird banding projects as needed 
• Collaborate with the Manager of Habitat Restoration to:
• Lead habitat restoration vegetation monitoring program
• Manage database, QAQC all data, perform analysis, and write progress reports
• Facilitate adaptive management of our restoration sites based on monitoring results
• Participate and speak at meetings with CDFW, Coastal Commission, and other regulatory and governmental agencies
• Prepare technical reports to support project design and permitting, grant compliance, and communication of habitat restoration project processes and outcomes with stakeholders and the public

Outreach 

• Organize the Wetland Restoration Principles Coalition in collaboration with our partners and update members and staff as necessary
• Organize bi-annual meetings of the El Segundo Blue Butterfly Coalition, manage Coalition website and map database
• Assist with weekend community events (average 1-2 per month)
• Deliver presentations to partners and community groups on relevant topics

Physical Demands

The position requires outdoor work in wetland terrain for extended periods of time under inclement conditions, involving activities such as walking, navigating, reaching with hands and arms, and effectively communicating verbally.

Schedule

Position to start ASAP. Full-time, 40 hours per week, mostly Monday through Friday. Must be available for some weekends and evenings. Approximately 50% of time is spend in an office environment (with some flexibility for remote work) and 50% is working in the field.

Our benefits include health insurance, a 403(b) retirement plan, 2+ weeks paid vacation, 56 hours of paid sick leave per calendar year, and paid time off for all Friends of Ballona Wetlands recognized holidays.

All applicants must apply by submitting a PDF resume and cover letter to employment@ballonafriends.org using “Manager of Scientific Programs” in the subject line.

Email submissions only; No phone inquiries.