Mid-Level Threatened and Endangered Species Subject Matter Expert

**position summary** Merjent, Inc. (Merjent) is seeking a Mid-Level Threatened and Endangered Species (T&E) Subject Matter Expert (SME) with expertise in protected species regulations to join our team. This full-time position supports energy infrastructure projects through critical issues analyses, environmental review, permit acquisitions, and construction/operation compliance management. This position requires the ability to interpret and apply environmental regulations to unique project conditions, anticipate regulatory challenges, and develop practical solutions based on logic and sound technical and regulatory reasoning. Applicants must also have expertise in conducting project reviews and effects analyses to ensure compliance with Endangered Species Act (ESA) regulations for federal and non-federal projects, participating in federal ESA Section 7 consultations, and conducting critical issues analyses to inform project design, schedule, and permitting pathways. This is a full-time benefits eligible opportunity that can be based anywhere in the U.S. The anticipated annual salary for this position is between $94,800 and $127,800 annually, depending upon qualifications and experience. This position is also bonus eligible. **why Merjent?** Merjent is a medium-sized consulting company dedicated to creating an environment where both people and projects succeed. Merjent has staff located across the United States who may choose a remote, in-office, or hybrid work arrangement. At Merjent, all full-time employees receive 4 weeks of paid vacation regardless of seniority, prorated according to their start date. In addition, employees receive 10 paid holidays and a generous benefit and compensation package. Merjent supports annual career-related training for employees to become or continue as leaders in their field of expertise. Merjent facilitates organic growth within the company and encourages employees to bring their ideas forward to grow existing and create new service lines within and beyond the currently served sectors of energy, mining, transportation, manufacturing and construction, land development industries, and government. Merjent also invests in its company culture by supporting travel for remote employees to attend in-person team meetings and all-staff events. The Merjent difference is real – it's based on a commitment to our values, which guide us in how we work with clients and each other. Our commitment to quality and professional integrity encompasses everything we do. We are proud of our reputation for delivering quality work and building long-term, trusting relationships with our clients and with regulatory agencies. **responsibilities** - Conduct critical issues analyses and provide technical guidance to internal and external clients regarding species-related risks by evaluating how T&E concerns may affect permitting strategies, project timelines, regulatory approvals, and project execution. - Take ownership of the technical aspects on projects by working with senior staff to set the technical approach, define technical strategy, and maintain accountability for deliverables and outcomes. - Conduct project reviews and effects analyses to ensure compliance with ESA regulations for federal and non-federal projects. - Participate in formal and informal ESA Section 7 consultations. - Draft sections of BAs, Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs) Environmental Impact Statements (EISs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), state permit applications, and other documents. - Manage multiple concurrent projects and competing priorities, proactively advancing project work while responding to urgent and time-sensitive requests and emerging issues. - Coordinate with biological field surveyors on survey methods, implementation, and reporting for survey efforts pertaining to protected species compliance and permitting. - Maintain current knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations, policies, and guidance r…