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Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist information

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$37K

$89.4K

$138K

How much do remote desert tortoise biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote 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.

What does a remote desert tortoise biologist do?

A Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist studies and monitors desert tortoise populations, typically using remote sensing technology, GPS, and other digital tools to conduct research from a distance or in the field with remote reporting. Their work may involve tracking tortoise movement, assessing habitat quality, collecting data on population health, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. They often collaborate with conservation organizations, government agencies, and land developers to protect tortoise habitats and mitigate human impacts. The role may require fieldwork in desert environments, data analysis, and preparing reports for stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote desert tortoise biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist, you need expertise in wildlife biology, field research methodologies, and a relevant degree in biology or ecology. Familiarity with GPS/GIS mapping tools, data collection software, and relevant permits or certifications (such as handling authorization) is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for accurate data recording and collaboration with remote teams. These skills ensure precise monitoring and conservation of desert tortoise populations, supporting environmental compliance and species protection.

What are some typical challenges faced by a remote desert tortoise biologist, and how are they addressed?

Remote Desert Tortoise Biologists often encounter challenges such as working in extreme desert conditions, ensuring accurate data collection over large and sometimes inaccessible areas, and maintaining effective communication with research teams from a distance. To manage these challenges, biologists rely on advanced GPS and remote monitoring technology, follow strict field safety protocols, and use detailed planning to coordinate with colleagues and project stakeholders. Regular virtual meetings and thorough reporting help maintain team cohesion and data consistency despite the remote nature of the work.

What is the difference between Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist vs Remote Wildlife Biologist?

AspectRemote Desert Tortoise BiologistRemote Wildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Biology, Ecology, or related field; specialized knowledge of desert tortoise ecologyBachelor's or higher in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, or related; general wildlife management skills
Work EnvironmentDesert habitats, fieldwork in remote areas, conservation projectsVarious habitats, field and office work, research and management
Employer & Industry UsageConservation agencies, research institutions, environmental NGOsGovernment agencies, research organizations, environmental consultancies

The Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist specializes in desert tortoise ecology and conservation, often working in remote desert environments. In contrast, the Remote Wildlife Biologist has a broader focus on various wildlife species across different habitats. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and involve fieldwork, but the desert tortoise biologist's work is more habitat-specific and species-focused.

More about Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs

What cities are hiring for Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs?

Cities with the most Remote 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 Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Remote Desert Tortoise Biologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,403 per year, or $43 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 13 hours ago


Job description

OMS Consulting Services is hiring a Field biologist who will be conducting biological monitoring for protected and sensitive species within the State of California.  Delineating and conducting wetlands assessments and analysis. Work with ESA Section 7 Biological Opinions and Permits, California ESA, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) 1602 Streambed regulations, Clean Water Act 401 certifications, and Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) Nationwide permits and/or 404 Individual permits. 
Must be located in Greater New Orleans area.
Essential Functions:
  • Desktop environmental constraints and permitting triggers analyses.
  • Use of GIS, California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), Google Earth and related tools.
  • Pre-construction presence/absence surveys for protected and sensitive species and habitats.
  • Construction monitoring for protected and sensitive species.
  • Daily, weekly, monthly compliance reporting.
  • Post-construction reporting.
  • Permit condition compliance monitoring and reporting.
  • Communication of permit conditions to constructors.
  • Regulatory notifications of permit violations.
  • Other duties as assigned by OMS or the client.

Qualifications:
  • 1 to 3-years prior experience and demonstrable proficiency conducting pre-construction presence / absence surveys, construction monitoring and compliance activities.
  • 4-year degree in biology, natural resources, or related field.
  • Familiarity with wetland indicators and state/federal permitting requirements.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, ability to resolve problems and to work with stakeholders.
  • Competence with laptops, tablets, smartphones, and Microsoft Office.
  • Experience driving off-road and with 4-wheel drive vehicles.
  • Ability to work occasional overtime and weekends.
  • Master’s degree in biology, natural resources or related field, preferred.
  • Section 7 ESA take permits and CDFW handling permits:  CRLF, Burrowing Owl, CTS, Desert Tortoise, Kit Fox, preferred.
  • Required to maintain a Class C driver’s license, including participating in Employer Pull Notice Program (EPN), with DMV.
  • Conduct a background check, drug screening, and physical exam.

Working Conditions: 
Environmental Factors - Indoor and outdoor conditions; exposure to heat, cold, potentially hazardous chemicals, toxic materials; work on/walk on slippery or uneven and potentially mountainous terrain. Noise level is usually moderate.
Physical Demands - The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee frequently is required to stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, talk, hear, stand, walk for extended periods of time, walk long distances, sit during extended periods of time, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.  Ability to perform tasks during a typical 8+ hour workday.