Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist)
Apply NowCompany: State of California
Location: Sacramento, CA 95823
Description:
The Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Inland Deserts Region has an exciting opportunity for an outgoing, independent, and highly motivated Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) - to serve as an integral part of a team implementing the Habitat Conservation Planning Program working towards the approval of Mitigation Banks in the Inland Deserts Region.
Under the direction of the Senior Environmental Scientist (Supervisor) and as part of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Inland Deserts Regional Habitat Conservation Planning (HabCon) Program, the incumbent independently identifies problems, develops courses of action, performs work including sensitive scientific investigations for complex projects involving energy development, and acts as a technical lead person for scientists conducting similar work. Responsibilities include preparing, permitting, tracking, reviewing, editing, and commenting on conservation and mitigation banks, reviewing bank property real estate documents, and conducting due diligence reviews of entities holding or managing bank property. Duties also include providing technical support and conducting mitigation negotiations, developing procedures, guidelines and standards, and developing regional approaches and positions in coordination with headquarters staff. Additionally, this position is responsible for permitting of energy projects within the Inland Deserts Region including Lake and Streambed Alteration (LSA) permitting; California Endangered Species Act (CESA) early consultation and issuance of Incidental Take Permits (ITPs); and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review. This work includes early pre-consultation, education, and outreach efforts, to proactively address potential project issues with applicants for a more expedited and efficient environmental review process.
This position offers the possibility of an office-centered telework agreement based on the Department's current Telework Policy.
In order to be eligible for this position, you must either be transfer eligible or take and pass the following exam.
Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist): Exam Bulletin Link
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
The position requires the use of a computer and Microsoft Office software up to eight hours each day, the completion of office tasks that require sitting, standing, and walking to other locations; attendance at meetings and participation in conference or video calls. Up to 20% travel may be required throughout the State including overnight travel, early mornings, late nights, hiking long distances over uneven and possibly steep or wet terrain, use of 4-wheel drive vehicle (including all-terrain vehicle), may include operation or passenger on a boat and work in inclement weather. A valid California's driver's license is required to drive to meetings and field sites. The position may require the incumbent to wear a uniform identifying the employee as CDFW staff. This position offers the possibility of an office-centered telework agreement based on the Department's current Telework Policy.
This position qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Accrual Credit
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
Position Details Job Code #:
JC-475697
Position #(s):
565-603-0765-012
Working Title:
Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist)
Classification:
SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST) $7,556.00 - $10,221.00
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
San Bernardino County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) employees are committed to managing and protecting California's diverse wildlife and the habitats upon which they depend.
California is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. As such, CDFW values diverse employees working together to protect nature for all Californians. CDFW is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all backgrounds, cultures and personal experiences can thrive and connect others to our critical mission.
Join us and begin a meaningful new career!
Department Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 5/9/2025
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s).
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Fish and Wildlife
HRB Mailing Address
Attn: Human Resources Branch
P.O. Box 944209
Sacramento , CA 94244
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Fish and Wildlife
Closed Drop Off Location
Human Resources Branch
Temporarily Closed
See Filing Instructions
Sacramento , CA 95814
Please Note: Drop-off location may be non-operational on weekends and holidays.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Skills:
Knowledge of basic principles of land, water, stream hydrology, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources research; knowledge of principles of ecology; ability to apply environmental and natural resource principals for the analysis of proposed projects; ability to analyze and evaluate data and reach sound conclusions; ability to prepare clear, complete, and technically accurate reports; and ability to apply laws, rules, regulations, policies, and requirements of California and Federal environmental protection and resource management programs.
Special Personal Characteristics:
Strong verbal and written communication skills; analytical ability; attention to detail; demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and work independently; high degree of initiative, flexibility, open-mindedness, and tact; ability to develop and maintain productive relationships while working in contentious settings; maintain professional personal appearance; reliability; and leadership.
Interpersonal Skills:
Work independently and in a team setting; communicate politely, tactfully, and firmly as necessary with other agency representatives and members of the public; demonstrate excellent listening skills and effective negotiation skills to facilitate and resolve conflicts; inspire confidence and effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, and managers in government and industry; and demonstrated ability to enhance and maintain a positive working environment.
Specified activities require knowledge of California fish and wildlife resources, ecological principles, lake and stream processes, applicable permitting and environmental laws, and administrative procedures and policies. The incumbent applies an extensive knowledge of environmental impacts, a high degree of personal initiative, and independent judgment. Public contacts made in the course of this work are highly sensitive and involve a wide variety of stakeholders. The incumbent is expected to coordinate closely with Habitat Conservation Planning Branch (HCPB) and statewide programs on policy issues and other activities as appropriate.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Ashley Rosales
(760) 219-9452
Ashley.Rosales@wildlife.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Civil Rights Office
(916) 902-9211
civilrights@wildlife.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Filing Instructions
You must reference Position Number 565-603-0765-012 and RPA Number E-R6 ESNM 24-014 in the Examination(s) or Job Title(s) for Which You Are Applying section of the State Application Form (Std. Form 678). Applications that do not list the Position Number and RPA Number may not be considered.
It is recommended that Application Packages be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at https://jobs.ca.gov . If applications are mailed, we recommend applications are sent certified mail as we are unable to verify receipt.
Applications that do not follow the Filing Instructions may not be considered.
This advertisement may be used to fill additional vacancies for this JC.
Resume - Resumes will be reviewed in addition to the STD 678 for employment history. Resumes must include the complete to and from dates (MM/DD/YYYY) and hours worked per week.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
Under the direction of the Senior Environmental Scientist (Supervisor) and as part of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Inland Deserts Regional Habitat Conservation Planning (HabCon) Program, the incumbent independently identifies problems, develops courses of action, performs work including sensitive scientific investigations for complex projects involving energy development, and acts as a technical lead person for scientists conducting similar work. Responsibilities include preparing, permitting, tracking, reviewing, editing, and commenting on conservation and mitigation banks, reviewing bank property real estate documents, and conducting due diligence reviews of entities holding or managing bank property. Duties also include providing technical support and conducting mitigation negotiations, developing procedures, guidelines and standards, and developing regional approaches and positions in coordination with headquarters staff. Additionally, this position is responsible for permitting of energy projects within the Inland Deserts Region including Lake and Streambed Alteration (LSA) permitting; California Endangered Species Act (CESA) early consultation and issuance of Incidental Take Permits (ITPs); and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review. This work includes early pre-consultation, education, and outreach efforts, to proactively address potential project issues with applicants for a more expedited and efficient environmental review process.
This position offers the possibility of an office-centered telework agreement based on the Department's current Telework Policy.
In order to be eligible for this position, you must either be transfer eligible or take and pass the following exam.
Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist): Exam Bulletin Link
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
The position requires the use of a computer and Microsoft Office software up to eight hours each day, the completion of office tasks that require sitting, standing, and walking to other locations; attendance at meetings and participation in conference or video calls. Up to 20% travel may be required throughout the State including overnight travel, early mornings, late nights, hiking long distances over uneven and possibly steep or wet terrain, use of 4-wheel drive vehicle (including all-terrain vehicle), may include operation or passenger on a boat and work in inclement weather. A valid California's driver's license is required to drive to meetings and field sites. The position may require the incumbent to wear a uniform identifying the employee as CDFW staff. This position offers the possibility of an office-centered telework agreement based on the Department's current Telework Policy.
This position qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Accrual Credit
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
- SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST)
- Job Application Package Checklist
- Duty Statement
Position Details Job Code #:
JC-475697
Position #(s):
565-603-0765-012
Working Title:
Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist)
Classification:
SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST) $7,556.00 - $10,221.00
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
San Bernardino County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) employees are committed to managing and protecting California's diverse wildlife and the habitats upon which they depend.
California is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. As such, CDFW values diverse employees working together to protect nature for all Californians. CDFW is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all backgrounds, cultures and personal experiences can thrive and connect others to our critical mission.
Join us and begin a meaningful new career!
Department Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 5/9/2025
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s).
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Fish and Wildlife
HRB Mailing Address
Attn: Human Resources Branch
P.O. Box 944209
Sacramento , CA 94244
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Fish and Wildlife
Closed Drop Off Location
Human Resources Branch
Temporarily Closed
See Filing Instructions
Sacramento , CA 95814
Please Note: Drop-off location may be non-operational on weekends and holidays.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
- Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
- Resume is required and must be included.
- Statement of Qualifications -
A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ ) is required . Please see below for SOQ instructions. Failure to include the SOQ will result in an incomplete application submission.
Please provide a Statement of Qualifications answering the questions below, no more than two (2) pages in length, 12-point Arial font:
1. Describe your experience with the fish and wildlife resources found within CDFW's Inland Deserts Region.
2. Please describe your process for reviewing a complex mitigation or conservation bank proposal OR similar complex project.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Skills:
Knowledge of basic principles of land, water, stream hydrology, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources research; knowledge of principles of ecology; ability to apply environmental and natural resource principals for the analysis of proposed projects; ability to analyze and evaluate data and reach sound conclusions; ability to prepare clear, complete, and technically accurate reports; and ability to apply laws, rules, regulations, policies, and requirements of California and Federal environmental protection and resource management programs.
Special Personal Characteristics:
Strong verbal and written communication skills; analytical ability; attention to detail; demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and work independently; high degree of initiative, flexibility, open-mindedness, and tact; ability to develop and maintain productive relationships while working in contentious settings; maintain professional personal appearance; reliability; and leadership.
Interpersonal Skills:
Work independently and in a team setting; communicate politely, tactfully, and firmly as necessary with other agency representatives and members of the public; demonstrate excellent listening skills and effective negotiation skills to facilitate and resolve conflicts; inspire confidence and effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, and managers in government and industry; and demonstrated ability to enhance and maintain a positive working environment.
Specified activities require knowledge of California fish and wildlife resources, ecological principles, lake and stream processes, applicable permitting and environmental laws, and administrative procedures and policies. The incumbent applies an extensive knowledge of environmental impacts, a high degree of personal initiative, and independent judgment. Public contacts made in the course of this work are highly sensitive and involve a wide variety of stakeholders. The incumbent is expected to coordinate closely with Habitat Conservation Planning Branch (HCPB) and statewide programs on policy issues and other activities as appropriate.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Ashley Rosales
(760) 219-9452
Ashley.Rosales@wildlife.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Civil Rights Office
(916) 902-9211
civilrights@wildlife.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Filing Instructions
You must reference Position Number 565-603-0765-012 and RPA Number E-R6 ESNM 24-014 in the Examination(s) or Job Title(s) for Which You Are Applying section of the State Application Form (Std. Form 678). Applications that do not list the Position Number and RPA Number may not be considered.
It is recommended that Application Packages be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at https://jobs.ca.gov . If applications are mailed, we recommend applications are sent certified mail as we are unable to verify receipt.
Applications that do not follow the Filing Instructions may not be considered.
This advertisement may be used to fill additional vacancies for this JC.
Resume - Resumes will be reviewed in addition to the STD 678 for employment history. Resumes must include the complete to and from dates (MM/DD/YYYY) and hours worked per week.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.