Fish and Wildlife Biologist

The position will serve as the central point of contact for the Virginia Ecological Services’ highly utilized online project review process, updating and maintaining the online project review process (which includes Information for Planning and Consultation) to ensure project stakeholders do not experience delays in receiving technical assistance or informal/formal consultations. 

This position will conduct informal and formal Section 7 consultations to assist higher grade biologists in reviewing, analyzing, and reporting on complex projects associated with the administration of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), Clean Water Act, Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Throughout the state of Virginia, there are more than 70 listed species and associated critical habitat designations, a voluminous amount of ESA Section 7 consultation requests on a daily basis, and a wide variety of action types (offshore wind, coal, natural gas pipelines, Clean Water Act permits, road/bridge work, military installations, NASA infrastructure) requiring ESA Section 7 consultation. Virginia Ecological Services has robust National Resource Damage Assessment and Response/Spill Response and Partners for Fish and Wildlife Programs that will provide the employee with opportunities to learn about these Programs, shadow employees in these Programs, and attend site visits related to these Programs. Our proximity to several National Wildlife Refuges and a National Fish Hatchery also allows for cross-training opportunities.

This developmental position is being established to create a career ladder opportunity throughout the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for positions performing the key mission of restoration, preservation and conservation of fish and wildlife and their habitats.