From projects and permits to clients and careers, learn how environmental consulting really works.
Considering a career in environmental consulting? This course provides a realistic overview of what to expect as you enter and grow within the field. Discover what your days might look like, from early-morning field surveys and construction monitoring to report writing and client communication. Learn how entry-level biological monitors typically progress over five years: mastering field protocols and documentation, developing technical writing skills, gaining proficiency across multiple survey types, and eventually taking on project management responsibilities or becoming a species-focused expert. We’ll walk through typical career milestones, the skills and certifications that open doors to advancement, and the seasonal rhythms of consulting work. You’ll understand both the challenges and rewards—the variety of projects and ecosystems you’ll encounter, the problem-solving nature of the work, and the professional growth opportunities available to those who develop strong technical and communication skills.
Course Format: Online
This course introduces the fundamentals of environmental consulting and helps you translate academic training into professional practice.
You’ll learn how consulting projects are structured, how consultants work with clients and agencies, and what’s expected of you in both the field and the office.
Designed to build confidence and clarity, this course prepares you to navigate your first consulting role, understand project workflows, and begin building a sustainable, impact-driven career in environmental consulting.
Biology students, recent graduates, or professionals from academic or agency backgrounds exploring whether environmental consulting is the right career path.

Professor of Biology, Sacramento City College & Wildlife Biologist, Wyatt Biological Consulting
Dave Wyatt is a wildlife biologist and educator with more than two decades of experience teaching field ecology, environmental regulations, and conservation biology. He coordinates Sacramento City College’s Field Ecology Program and Career Certificate and specializes in wildlife research focused on bats, ringtails, and entomology. Dave brings a rare combination of academic leadership and applied consulting experience, supporting the development of field-ready environmental professionals.

Owner, Wildlife Consulting & Photography
Joe DiDonato is an independent wildlife consultant with extensive experience in endangered species compliance, habitat restoration, and conservation banking throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. He has guided public and private landowners through permitting, mitigation, and conservation easement development, and brings strong expertise in applied land management, habitat assessment and regulatory processes.

Senior Biologist & Owner, Livewire Ecological Consulting LLC
Kat Calderala is a field biologist with over 15 years of experience working across California on special-status species in diverse habitats. Her work includes habitat assessments, technical reporting, and a wide range of species surveys, with expertise spanning birds, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, fish, and vernal pool invertebrates. Kat brings deep, field-tested knowledge of survey methods, equipment, and regulatory compliance to her advisory role with SIERRA.