As Needed Biologist, Botany Specialist

Job Type Temporary Description

  

Ready to put your botanical expertise to work with one of California’s most respected environmental consulting firms? HELIX Environmental Planning is seeking an As-Needed Biologist, Botany Specialist to join our dynamic Southern California biology team. If you thrive outdoors, love rare plant identification, and enjoy flexible field-based work, this As-Needed Biologist, Botany Specialist role could be the perfect fit.

Why HELIX?

At HELIX, people come first. As an employee-owned firm, every team member contributes to—and benefits from—our shared success. We’re known for our integrity, strong team culture, commitment to quality, and diverse project portfolio. HELIX consistently ranks among the best environmental consulting firms nationwide, and our employees describe us as collaborative, caring, and mission-driven.

A Day in the Life

As an As-Needed Biologist, Botany Specialist, you’ll support field efforts primarily during the busy spring season. Your workdays may include:

• Conducting terrestrial biological monitoring on construction or restoration sites
• Completing vegetation mapping, botany surveys, and rare plant surveys
• Collecting accurate field data, maintaining maps, and preparing clean, organized notes
• Coordinating schedules with Project Managers and the La Mesa Operations Manager
• Delivering high-quality, on-time, on-budget work across a variety of biological projects

This As-Needed Biologist, Botany Specialist position supplements our full-time team as workload increases—offering flexibility but no guaranteed minimum hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Terrestrial biological monitoring
• Terrestrial biological surveys including vegetation mapping and focused plant species surveys
• Maintaining complete and accurate field documentation
• Coordinating fieldwork and schedules with project leads
• Producing professional work products that meet HELIX standards

Hourly wages will be based on qualifications and/or experience. Expected starting pay range of $30 to $34 per hour.

Ready to Join HELIX?

If you’re a motivated As-Needed Biologist, Botany Specialist ready to bring your botany skillset to a supportive, employee-owned team, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today through the HELIX website and help us continue delivering exceptional environmental solutions throughout Southern California.

  

HELIX is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.

PM21

Requirements

 Minimum Qualifications

To succeed as an As-Needed Biologist, Botany Specialist, you will need:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, or related field (biochem/microbiology excluded)
• 2+ years of professional terrestrial biology experience, including experience in environmental consulting
• Strong skills in Southern California flora and fauna identification
• Experience conducting construction monitoring and/or terrestrial biological surveys
• Proven ability to maintain accurate field notes, maps, and logs
• Ability to hike long distances over varying terrain and weather
• Valid CA Driver’s License and clean driving record

Preferred Qualifications

• USFWS permits (e.g., SWFL, coastal California gnatcatcher, Quino checkerspot butterfly)
• Experience conducting least Bell’s vireo, Arroyo toad, or burrowing owl surveys
• Experience preparing biological monitoring reports
• Master’s degree in biology, natural resources, or related field
• Experience with delineations, CRAM, restoration monitoring, or CWA permit applications

Salary Description Range of $30 to $34 Hourly