Junior Biologist - Wetlands & GIS Specialist
POSITION: Junior Biologist – Wetlands & GIS Specialist
STATUS: Full Time
STARTING PAY: Based on experience
HOURS: Standard business hours are Monday-Thursday 7:30am-5:00pm and Friday 7:30am-11:30am; however, we offer flexibility to adjust your schedule as needed to support project demands while maintaining work-life balance.
LOCATION: Baton Rouge, LA
Position Summary:
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Biologist to join our Coastal, Environmental, and Water Resources (CEWR) team. This entry level position is a great opportunity for recent graduates or early-career professionals with a background in biology, ecology, or a related field. Candidates should have some exposure to wetland delineations and an interest in developing GIS and mapping skills. We are seeking someone who is eager to learn, enjoys working as part of a team, and are passionate about fieldwork as well as environmental compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with wetland delineations in accordance with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) Wetlands Delineation Manual and Regional Supplements.
- Support the preparation of jurisdictional determination reports, permit applications, and technical documents.
- Collect, manage, and analyze ecological data using GPS equipment and GIS platforms (e.g., ArcGIS).
- Conduct desktop reviews and spatial analyses to support project planning and fieldwork.
- Assist with habitat assessments, rare species surveys, and biological monitoring as needed.
- Maintain accurate field notes, photographs, and data records.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including biologists, planners, engineers, and GIS specialists.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field.
- 0–3 years of experience in wetland delineation, natural resource assessments, or similar fieldwork.
- Basic knowledge of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, NEPA, and related environmental regulations.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to travel for fieldwork and work in variable outdoor conditions.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Completed a wetland delineation training course (e.g., through the USACE or another recognized provider) and/or familiarity with wetland plant identification, hydric soils, and hydrology indicators.
- Experience with GPS data collection tools (e.g., Trimble, Collector).
- Experience with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, Collector, Field Maps, Survey123).
- Experience preparing technical environmental reports.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
- Frequent fieldwork required; must be able to walk long distances in varied terrain and weather.
- Occasional travel and overnight stays may be required depending on project needs.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
Why Join Us?
- Work on impactful environmental projects that support sustainable development and conservation.
- Grow your career with mentorship from senior scientists and project managers.
- Collaborative and flexible work culture, with opportunities for training and advancement.
BENEFITS:
· 401(k)
· Health Insurance
· Dental Insurance
· Vision Insurance
· Health Savings Accounts
· Life and AD&D Insurance
· Disability Insurance
· Voluntary Benefits
· Paid Time Off
· Sick Time
G.E.C., Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
G.E.C., INC. is an EEO employer - M/F/Vets/Disabled