AOT Environmental Biologist I

at State of Vermont in Barre, Vermont, United States

Job Description

The Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) Environmental Section is seeking a Biologist to join our team. This role will focus primarily on wetland delineation, natural resource permitting, and other ecological support services across VTrans projects and programs.

We are especially interested in candidates with experience in:

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE) Wetland Delineation methodologies
• Vermont Wetland Permitting processes
• Project plan reviews
• GIS/GPS tools and applications

This position involves professional-level environmental assessment work, with a focus on evaluating the impacts of proposed transportation projects on wetlands, fisheries, wildlife, and rare or endangered species. You will:

• Conduct site visits and environmental assessments
• Prepare detailed reports, resource identification plots, and technical documents
• Make recommendations for impact avoidance, minimization, and mitigation
• Coordinate with state and federal agencies on biological resource matters
• Prepare and support permit applications (e.g., Act 250, USACE, VT Natural Resources Agencies, FHWA)

This role is distinct from lower-level biologist positions in both complexity and autonomy. The Biologist is expected to exercise independent judgment and may provide specialized expertise within the Environmental Section. You’ll also contribute to the development of agency policy, guidance materials, and public information resources.

Most duties are performed in an office setting, but fieldwork and travel to project sites are required. A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation may be necessary

Duties are performed both in a standard office setting and in the field. Fieldwork will require traversing rough terrain, wooded areas, streams, and wetlands. Some evening or weekend work may be required in attending public meetings and hearings. Private means of transportation may be required and must be available.