Botanist

Department: Field Biology

Location: Remote (Malibu, CA)

Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time

Salary: $47,840 ($23.00) - $56,160 ($27.00)

Job Description:

We are seeking a knowledgeable and enthusiastic candidate to join our team in Malibu, CA. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in plant identification, habitat restoration, and ecological surveys, with a focus on the unique flora of Southern California. This role involves conducting fieldwork, collaborating with environmental teams, and contributing to the preservation and management of local ecosystems. This position requires experience working in the field, from hiking long distances in treacherous terrain to working in extreme weather conditions over long periods of time. The individual must be physically capable of working in these demanding conditions on a regular basis. Overnight travel may be required for projects in remote locations.

The candidate will be located in Malibu, CA. Candidate will mobilize from personal residence and drive to and from job sites.

This position is on-call, meaning work is not guaranteed and is scheduled as work requests are received from clients. Candidate is expected to provide availability in a timely manner. Full-time positions require someone who is available 4-5 days a week/30+ hours a week. Part-time positions require someone who is available up to 3 days a week/less than 30 hours week.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Tasks will include but are not limited to:

  • Conduct botanical surveys, including identification and cataloging of native, invasive, and endangered plant species.

  • Perform habitat assessments and contribute to vegetation mapping projects.

  • Design and implement habitat restoration and conservation plans.

  • Collect and analyze data to evaluate environmental impact and biodiversity.

  • Collaborate with local agencies, clients, and other scientists to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and guidelines.

  • Monitor vegetation health and provide recommendations for management practices.

  • Write detailed reports, including findings, recommendations, and compliance documentation.

  • Complete written reports of field findings and submit those reports to Forde and the clients.

  • Keep track of mileage, travel time, field time, and expenses.

  • Work closely with the scheduling and administrative team to be scheduled for work and submit data for invoicing.

  • Work with the clients in a professional and diplomatic manner.

Required Qualifications:

  • B.S. or M.A. degree in Botany, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field

  • 2 years of experience in environmental consulting

  • 2 years of experience in botany

  • Strong knowledge of California native plants, invasive species, and coastal ecosystems

  • Proficiency in plant taxonomy and ecological survey methods

  • Experience with GIS mapping and vegetation classification is preferred

  • Familiarity with local and federal environmental regulations (e.g., CEQA, Endangered Species Act)

  • Ability to conduct fieldwork in various terrains and weather conditions

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Desired Qualifications:

  • Certification in wetland delineation or restoration ecology

  • Experience with fire recovery projects and post-fire vegetation studies

  • Knowledge of sustainable landscaping practices and native gardening

  • Knowledge of writing restoration plans

  • Experience mapping in GIS