NEPA Compliance Officer (Paleontology) – Federal Law focus

About the Company

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a leading environmental consulting firm, recognized for providing comprehensive environmental planning, regulatory compliance, and natural and cultural resources management services. With a commitment to science-driven solutions and client success, SWCA helps navigate complex environmental challenges across diverse industries, ensuring sustainable development and conservation. Our San Diego office is at the forefront of tackling unique regional environmental issues, including those related to paleontological resources.

Job Description

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a highly motivated and experienced NEPA Compliance Officer with a specialized focus on Paleontology and Federal Law to join our team in San Diego, California. In this critical role, you will be responsible for ensuring that projects requiring federal permits or funding comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other pertinent federal regulations, specifically pertaining to paleontological resources. You will interpret federal environmental laws, manage the NEPA process for projects of varying complexity, prepare high-quality NEPA documents, coordinate with federal agencies, and provide expert guidance to project teams and clients on paleontological resource issues. This role demands a strong understanding of both environmental compliance and paleontological resource management within a federal regulatory framework.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage NEPA compliance efforts for projects involving paleontological resources.
  • Conduct regulatory reviews and analyses of federal laws and regulations relevant to paleontological resources (e.g., Antiquities Act, Paleontological Resources Preservation Act, NHPA Section 106 when applicable to integrated cultural/paleo).
  • Prepare NEPA documents, including Categorical Exclusions (CEs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs), specifically addressing paleontological impacts and mitigation.
  • Coordinate effectively with federal agencies (e.g., BLM, Forest Service, NPS, DoD, FERC) during scoping, review, and consultation processes.
  • Provide expert advice and recommendations to clients and internal project teams on NEPA strategy and paleontological resource management.
  • Manage project schedules, budgets, and scopes of work related to NEPA compliance and paleontology.
  • Oversee or conduct paleontological resource surveys, monitoring, and data analysis as required for NEPA documentation.
  • Train and mentor junior staff on NEPA compliance procedures and paleontological best practices.
  • Maintain accurate project records and documentation.

Required Skills

  • Comprehensive knowledge of NEPA processes and documentation requirements.
  • Strong understanding of federal environmental laws and regulations, particularly as they apply to paleontological resources.
  • Demonstrated experience in preparing NEPA documents (CEs, EAs, EISs).
  • Expertise in paleontological resource assessment, mitigation, and management.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for report writing, presentations, and agency liaison.
  • Proven project management capabilities, including budgeting and scheduling.
  • Ability to interpret complex regulatory guidelines and apply them to real-world projects.
  • Proficiency in GIS and data management software.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Paleontology, Geology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
  • Professional certifications (e.g., AICP, PMP).
  • Experience working with specific federal agencies (e.g., BLM, USFS, DoD).
  • Advanced experience in paleontological fieldwork and laboratory analysis.
  • Familiarity with California environmental regulations (CEQA) in addition to federal laws.

Perks & Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
  • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
  • Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
  • Flexible work arrangements (Hybrid model).
  • Employee wellness programs.
  • Life and disability insurance.
  • Collaborative and supportive work environment.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this position, please click the "Apply Now" button below. To ensure your application is properly considered, please prepare the following:

  • An up-to-date Resume or CV
  • A brief cover letter summarizing your experience and motivation

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

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