Senior Biologist - Aquatic Science Team
Richmond, CA Lab
At ICF’s Environment & Planning Division, we are dedicated to making a positive impact for our clients, our team, the communities we serve, and the environment. Our diverse group includes planners, scientists, program managers, communicators, economists, technologists, and strategists. We foster a collaborative, inquisitive, and excellence-driven culture. If you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and supportive environment—and want to work with a passionate team of industry professionals—we invite you to learn more about ICF (www.icf.com) and consider joining us.
Position Overview
The Fisheries & Aquatic Team is seeking a Senior Biologist with expertise in boating, scientific writing, and taxonomic identification of larval fish, zooplankton, and phytoplankton, especially within the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and San Francisco Estuary. This role is based at our Richmond, California laboratory.
What You’ll Do
Lead research and monitoring projects in California’s freshwater and estuarine ecosystems, focusing on the Delta and San Francisco Estuary.
Operate and maintain water-quality and fish-monitoring instruments, including boats ranging from 15’ to 25’.
Handle all aspects of small boat operations, including trailering boats to marinas and service locations.
Provide expert identification of special-status fish species and lower trophic organisms using light microscopy.
Prepare technical memoranda and scientific reports summarizing identification results and findings.
Ensure regulatory compliance, contributing to Federal and State ESA, CEQA, and NEPA documentation.
Advance water resource management by conducting applied research and integrating policy recommendations into decision-making.
Manage projects, delegate tasks to team members, and coordinate with other subject matter experts.
Analyze data and apply statistical methods to support scientific conclusions.
Participate in proposal development, project implementation, and manuscript submission for scientific investigations.
Expect several hours of microscope work daily, weekly, or monthly, as required.
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences, or a related field plus 10 years of relevant professional experience, OR
Master’s degree in aquatic biology plus 8 years of hands-on experience with fish and plankton fieldwork and laboratory analysis.
Valid California Boating ID card and experience operating small boats (MOCC certification).
Must have valid driver's license and successfully pass a Motor Vehicles Records (MVR) check
Additional Skills & Experience
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Proven project management expertise.
Strong written communication and scientific writing skills.
Willingness to work extended hours on boats, sometimes in challenging conditions.
Experience with water quality instrumentation and calibration.
Ability to swim 50 yards in cold water.
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you’re excited about contributing your expertise to vital aquatic research and management projects in California, and want to work with a collaborative team that values your skills and passion, apply today!
Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email [email protected] and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at [email protected]. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$89,261.00 - $151,744.00Richmond, CA (CA84)Similar Jobs
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What We Do
ICF is a leading global solutions and technology provider with approximately 9,000 employees in industries across the public and private sectors. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.
Why Work With Us
At ICF, we’ve built a culture rooted in expertise, innovation, and purpose—enabling us to build a more prosperous and resilient world for all. When our employees grow, our solutions thrive—regardless of your role, team, or location, you’ll have opportunities to make connections, build community, and take action to develop your career.
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