Mid-Level Threatened and Endangered Species Subject Matter Expert

position summary

Merjent, Inc. (Merjent) is seeking a Mid-Level Threatened and Endangered Species (T&E) Subject Matter Expert (SME) with expertise in protected species regulations to join our team. This full-time position supports energy infrastructure projects through critical issues analyses, environmental review, permit acquisitions, and construction/operation compliance management.

This position requires the ability to interpret and apply environmental regulations to unique project conditions, anticipate regulatory challenges, and develop practical solutions based on logic and sound technical and regulatory reasoning.

Applicants must also have expertise in conducting project reviews and effects analyses to ensure compliance with Endangered Species Act (ESA) regulations for federal and non-federal projects, participating in federal ESA Section 7 consultations, and conducting critical issues analyses to inform project design, schedule, and permitting pathways.

This is a full-time benefits eligible opportunity that can be based anywhere in the U.S. The anticipated annual salary for this position is between $94,800 and $127,800 annually, depending upon qualifications and experience. This position is also bonus eligible.

why Merjent?

Merjent is a medium-sized consulting company dedicated to creating an environment where both people and projects succeed. Merjent has staff located across the United States who may choose a remote, in-office, or hybrid work arrangement. At Merjent, all full-time employees receive 4 weeks of paid vacation regardless of seniority, prorated according to their start date. In addition, employees receive 10 paid holidays and a generous benefit and compensation package. Merjent supports annual career-related training for employees to become or continue as leaders in their field of expertise. Merjent facilitates organic growth within the company and encourages employees to bring their ideas forward to grow existing and create new service lines within and beyond the currently served sectors of energy, mining, transportation, manufacturing and construction, land development industries, and government. Merjent also invests in its company culture by supporting travel for remote employees to attend in-person team meetings and all-staff events.

The Merjent difference is real – it's based on a commitment to our values, which guide us in how we work with clients and each other. Our commitment to quality and professional integrity encompasses everything we do. We are proud of our reputation for delivering quality work and building long-term, trusting relationships with our clients and with regulatory agencies.

responsibilities

• Conduct critical issues analyses and provide technical guidance to internal and external clients regarding species-related risks by evaluating how T&E concerns may affect permitting strategies, project timelines, regulatory approvals, and project execution.
• Take ownership of the technical aspects on projects by working with senior staff to set the technical approach, define technical strategy, and maintain accountability for deliverables and outcomes.
• Conduct project reviews and effects analyses to ensure compliance with ESA regulations for federal and non-federal projects.
• Participate in formal and informal ESA Section 7 consultations.
• Draft sections of BAs, Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs) Environmental Impact Statements (EISs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), state permit applications, and other documents.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects and competing priorities, proactively advancing project work while responding to urgent and time-sensitive requests and emerging issues.
• Coordinate with biological field surveyors on survey methods, implementation, and reporting for survey efforts pertaining to protected species compliance and permitting.
• Maintain current knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations, policies, and guidance relevant to project permitting and compliance as they pertain to protected species.
• Participate in and foster a collaborative environment within the T&E SME group through proactive communication, knowledge sharing, and coordination with colleagues.
• Work with internal project teams and external clients in a manner that is consistent with Merjent's reputation for excellence.

required qualifications and experience

• Bachelor or graduate degree in biology, ecology, fisheries and wildlife, conservation biology, or a related degree.
• Demonstrated experience in working as a T&E SME for 3-7+ years in the following areas, including in the consulting sector:
  • Technical Lead or co-lead conducting informal and/or formal interagency consultations under ESA Section 7
  • Technical Lead or co-lead conducting due diligence reviews and analyses to ensure ESA compliance on non-federal projects.
  • Technical Lead or co-lead conducting reviews to ensure compliance with BGEPA, MBTA, state, and other T&E regulations
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical aspects of projects by proactively identifying issues, developing strategies, and driving work to completion while collaborating with senior T&E SMEs to ensure technically sound and practical outcomes.
• Demonstrated capacity to manage multiple active projects simultaneously, including the ability to prioritize competing demands, navigate changing priorities, and respond promptly to urgent requests while maintaining project momentum.
• Ability to adapt to changes in scope and deadlines.
• Experience in analyzing, organizing, and interpreting data from multiple sources and interests.
• Demonstrated technical writing skills. A writing sample may be requested during the interview process.
• Experience using geo-spatial files in Google Earth and ArcGIS Online.
• Preference for a background working within the energy industry on construction, operations, and maintenance of energy projects.

E-Verify

Merjent, Inc. participates with the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) E-Verify program. We will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Candidates interested in applying should submit a completed Application for Employment (cover letter and resume) to merjent.applicantpro.com.

Merjent, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We are pleased to consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected factors. Disability-related accommodations during the application process are available upon request.

Merjent is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity.