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Desert Tortoise Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING

As-Needed Biologist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

... desert tortoise and/or burrowing owl surveys • Experience preparing biological monitoring reports • Experience conducting surveys and monitoring for desert plant and wildlife species in Southern ...

OMS Group

Field Biologist

Work with ESA Section 7 Biological Opinions and Permits, California ESA, California Department of ... CRLF, Burrowing Owl, CTS, Desert Tortoise, Kit Fox, preferred. * Required to maintain a Class C ...

OMS Group

Field Biologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$21.63 - $31.25/hr

Work with ESA Section 7 Biological Opinions and Permits, California ESA, California Department of ... CRLF, Burrowing Owl, CTS, Desert Tortoise, Kit Fox, preferred. * Required to maintain a Class C ...

Stantec

Associate Biologist On-Call

Irvine, CA · On-site

Your Opportunity We are seeking an Associate Biologist with a with a minimum of 5 years of ... bee, desert tortoise, burrowing owl, western snowy plover, California least tern, least Bell ...

Stantec

Senior Biologist On-Call

Irvine, CA · On-site

Your Opportunity We are seeking a Senior Biologist with a with a minimum of 10 years of experience ... bee, desert tortoise, burrowing owl, western snowy plover, California least tern, least Bell ...

Stantec

Senior Biologist On-Call

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

Your Opportunity We are seeking a Senior Biologist with a with a minimum of 10 years of experience ... bee, desert tortoise, burrowing owl, western snowy plover, California least tern, least Bell ...

Stantec

Senior Biologist On-Call

San Diego, CA · On-site

$93K - $140K/yr

Your Opportunity We are seeking a Senior Biologist with a with a minimum of 10 years of experience ... bee, desert tortoise, burrowing owl, western snowy plover, California least tern, least Bell ...

Stantec

Associate Biologist On-Call

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $116K/yr

Your Opportunity We are seeking an Associate Biologist with a with a minimum of 5 years of ... bee, desert tortoise, burrowing owl, western snowy plover, California least tern, least Bell ...

Stantec

Associate Biologist On-Call

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

Your Opportunity We are seeking an Associate Biologist with a with a minimum of 5 years of ... bee, desert tortoise, burrowing owl, western snowy plover, California least tern, least Bell ...

Stantec

Senior Biologist On-Call

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

Your Opportunity We are seeking a Senior Biologist with a with a minimum of 10 years of experience ... bee, desert tortoise, burrowing owl, western snowy plover, California least tern, least Bell ...

Stantec

Senior Biologist On-Call

San Diego, CA · On-site

Your Opportunity We are seeking a Senior Biologist with a with a minimum of 10 years of experience ... bee, desert tortoise, burrowing owl, western snowy plover, California least tern, least Bell ...

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All JobsDesert Tortoise Biologist Jobs

Desert Tortoise Biologist information

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$37K

$89.4K

$138K

How much do desert tortoise biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for desert tortoise biologist in the United States is $89,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $121,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do wildlife biologists get paid good?

Wildlife biologists, including desert tortoise biologists, typically earn a median annual salary around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may pay less, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Salaries can also vary based on government, nonprofit, or private sector employment and may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Is there a demand for wildlife biologists?

There is steady demand for wildlife biologists, including those specializing in desert tortoise conservation, as environmental awareness and habitat protection efforts increase. Employment opportunities are often found in government agencies, research institutions, and conservation organizations, with skills in field research, data analysis, and environmental regulations valued highly.

What is the highest paying job in wildlife?

In wildlife careers, senior roles such as wildlife managers, conservation directors, or research scientists often have the highest salaries. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills, and they may involve leadership responsibilities and fieldwork in challenging environments.

What is a Desert Tortoise Biologist job?

A Desert Tortoise Biologist studies, monitors, and protects desert tortoise populations, primarily in arid regions like the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. They conduct field surveys, track tortoise movements, assess habitat conditions, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Their work often supports conservation efforts, research studies, and land management planning. They may collaborate with government agencies, environmental organizations, and researchers to develop strategies for species protection. This role requires knowledge of ecology, wildlife biology, and regulatory guidelines related to endangered species.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Desert Tortoise Biologist position, and why are they important?

Desert Tortoise Biologists require a solid background in wildlife biology, ecology, and field research methods, often supported by a degree in biology, ecology, or a related field. Experience with GPS, GIS software, radio telemetry, and relevant permits such as Section 10(a)(1)(A) authorization for handling protected species is highly valuable. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate well with multidisciplinary teams help biologists excel in both independent fieldwork and group projects. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and successful conservation of the desert tortoise.

What are the authorized biologist requirements for desert tortoise?

Authorized biologists working with desert tortoises typically need a biological background, relevant field experience, and certification in species-specific survey methods such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's desert tortoise survey protocols. They must also adhere to state and federal regulations, including permits for handling and monitoring the species, and often require training in tortoise ecology and conservation practices.

What does a typical day look like for a Desert Tortoise Biologist?

A typical day for a Desert Tortoise Biologist often involves extensive fieldwork, such as conducting population surveys, tracking tortoise movements, and monitoring habitats, sometimes in remote desert locations. You may spend time collecting data, recording observations, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, as well as caring for tortoises during research activities. When not in the field, the role includes tasks like analyzing data, preparing reports, and collaborating with environmental consultants, agencies, or conservation partners to develop management plans. This balance of outdoor and office work provides a dynamic schedule and the opportunity to make a direct impact on species preservation.

More about Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs? Cities with the most Desert Tortoise Biologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs? The most popular types of Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs are:
What states have the most Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs are:
Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Desert Tortoise Biologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Locum Tenens, 9% As Needed, 73% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,403 per year, or $43 per hour.
As-Needed Biologist

As-Needed Biologist

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, INC.

San Diego, CA

$30 - $39/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description

Looking for meaningful fieldwork with a company that values science, collaboration, and flexibility? HELIX Environmental Planning is growing, and we're seeking motivated As-Needed Biologists to support our Southern California biology team during our busy field seasons. This As-Needed Biologist role is ideal for early to mid-level  professional biologists who thrive in the field, enjoy diverse projects, and want flexible, as-needed work with a respected environmental consulting firm. If you're an As-Needed Biologist ready to make an impact, we want to hear from you.


Why HELIX?

HELIX Environmental Planning is a California-based, employee-owned environmental consulting firm known for technical excellence, collaboration, and integrity. As an As-Needed Biologist, you'll join a supportive team that values high-quality science, safety, and professional respect. This is an as-needed, hourly position with variable hours, commonly ramping up during the spring and peak field seasons-perfect for professionals seeking flexibility while working on meaningful environmental projects. 


Day in the Life

As an As-Needed Biologist, your days will be spent in the field across Southern California-conducting construction monitoring, performing bird surveys, mapping vegetation, and supporting restoration and infrastructure projects. You'll coordinate schedules with project managers, document field conditions, and contribute to projects that protect sensitive biological resources.


What You'll Do

  • Conduct terrestrial biological monitoring for construction and restoration projects
  • Perform biological surveys including bird surveys, vegetation mapping, and focused species surveys (including rare plants)
  • Maintain accurate field notes, maps, and project documentation
  • Manage your workload and coordinate schedules with project managers
  • Deliver high-quality work products on time and within budget
     

Compensation

$30 - $39 per hour, based on experience and qualifications. 


Ready to put your field expertise to work? Apply today to join HELIX Environmental Planning as an As-Needed Biologist and be part of a team making a real environmental difference across 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 Requirements

Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental science, or related field

Minimum 2 years of professional terrestrial biology experience (environmental consulting required)

Experience with Southern California terrestrial flora, fauna and rare plant identification

Experience with construction monitoring and/or conducting field surveys, including bird surveys

Ability to hike long distances over varied terrain and weather conditions

Valid California Driver's License with a clean driving record


Preferred Qualifications

Valid recovery USFWS permits for listed species (e.g., coastal California gnatcatcher, Quino checkerspot butterfly)

Valid Scientific Collecting Permit (SCP) from CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife

Previously approved by CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife as a Designated Biologist on projects

Experience with least Bell's vireo, Arroyo toad, desert tortoise and/or burrowing owl surveys

Experience preparing biological monitoring reports

Experience conducting surveys and monitoring for desert plant and wildlife species in Southern California



Apply