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Natural Resources Project Manager

Zara is seeking an experienced Natural Resources Project Manager to support projects with complex endangered species issues. The chosen candidate will be an expert at developing formal and informal Section 7 documents for consultation with the USFWS. Our ideal candidate will have deep regional expertise in Central Texas and a working knowledge of endangered karst invertebrates, Golden-cheeked Warblers, and freshwater mussels. In this role, you’ll pursue new project opportunities, identify regulatory compliance needs, lead field studies, manage client relationships, mentor staff, and assist with business development. You will be required to apply practical knowledge as well as legal interpretation of federal, state, and local regulations such as NEPA, ESA, Clean Water Act, TCEQ, Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, City of Austin Environmental Criteria Manual, and local Habitat Conservation Plans. You’ll work both independently and as part of project teams to manage multiple concurrent projects and meet challenging client expectations. You will work directly with management and administrative staff as well as project and proposal teams. We encourage initiative and offer opportunities to attend conferences, lead client outreach, and shape Zara’s commercial growth.

What We’d Like to See in You:
We’re looking for someone with at least 7 years of environmental consulting experience (especially related to the complexities of the ESA and related policies), and 5 years of project management experience. Passion for your work and a desire to grow with our team is a big plus. Ideally, you bring:  

  • Master’s degree in Natural Resources Management, Biology, Environmental Science, Ecology, Geology, or related field

  • Expertise in endangered species compliance

  • Proven leadership and project management experience

  • Excellent communication, critical thinking, analytical and technical writing skills

  • Proficiency in MS Office and Adobe

  • Familiarity with the use of productivity/data management tools

  • Effective time-management, written communication, and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

  • Strong presentation skills and a mastery of impactful client communication

  • Ability to direct and occasionally conduct fieldwork, including willingness to travel

  • Attention to detail and commitment to delivering quality work products

  • Experience mentoring junior staff

  • Enthusiasm, initiative, flexibility, and a desire to work in a growing team


Job Responsibilities:

  • Manage environmental studies and provide technical expertise

  • Prepare and QA/QC impact assessments and Biological Assessments, Biological Evaluations, and Habitat Conservation Plans for ESA compliance

  • Develop mitigation measures, monitoring, and permitting for biological resources

  • Write proposals and develop complex technical scopes and cost estimates

  • Prepare protocols and supervise field surveys

  • Track project performance, profitability, schedule, and ensure that you have or can effectively source the right resources to complete the project

  • Oversee subcontractors and ensure quality standards on project deliverables

  • Supervise project teams and monitor team utilization

  • Mentor junior- and mid-level consulting staff to develop their growing skillsets

  • Foster strong collaborative relationships with other Zara employees

  • Maintain a commitment to safe and poised work practices

  • Support business development through client outreach and relationship building

  • Participate in growth-oriented initiatives for the company and staff

Are you a good fit for this position?

Apply now