About the position
SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Project Wetland Scientist to join our dynamic team in Portland, OR or Whitefish, MT. In this pivotal role, you'll provide invaluable support to projects potentially across the Pacific Northwest. Engaging in a mix of field and office work, you'll conduct a variety of natural resource field studies, from wetland delineations to vegetation surveys and wildlife assessments. You will play a crucial role in project success, contributing your expertise to environmental conservation efforts. If you thrive in dynamic environments and are passionate about making a positive impact, we invite you to apply and become a part of our dedicated team. Please note that this position involves demanding fieldwork, with anticipated moderate travel, including overnight stays. While fieldwork will primarily be in the Pacific Northwest, occasional travel to other ecoregions may be required. We will consider both Associate Project and Project-level candidates for this role. That includes: Associate Project Wetland Scientist; typically, with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience and expertise. Project Wetland Scientist; typically, with a minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience and expertise. This is a permanent, full-time (with benefits) position offering the flexibility of hybrid work, combining field, in-office, and remote work arrangements.
Responsibilities
- Lead or help conduct various natural resource field studies, such as wetland delineations, threatened/endangered species assessments, and vegetation surveys.
- Organize and manage field data in digital formats.
- Prepare technical reports and permit applications for regulatory approvals under the Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and other resource planning/permitting, and/or natural resource disciplines.
- Collaborate with team members in the development of project deliverables.
- Utilize topographic maps, GPS devices, and other tools during fieldwork activities.
- Safely operate vehicles, including 4-wheel drive vehicles, for fieldwork and site visits.
- Coordinate field crew activities, including mobilization and data collection efforts.
- Conduct research, data synthesis, and basic analysis to support project objectives.
- Communicate effectively with clients and agency representatives throughout project lifecycles.
- Ensure adherence to safety protocols and oversee their implementation in the field.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Ecology, Water Resources, Botany, Environmental Science, Fish and Wildlife Science, Natural Resource Management, related field, or equivalent professional experience.
- Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in natural resources management, including wetland delineations and aquatic assessments.
- Minimum of two (2) years of experience conducting wetland delineations and aquatic resources assessments. Candidates that are unable to demonstrate delineation experience will not be considered for this position.
- Familiarity with Clean Water Act regulations and the Nationwide Permitting system.
- Experience conducting desktop research for preliminary wetlands evaluations and compiling field data into aquatic resource inventory reports.
- Proficiency in GPS devices, digital data collection, and mapping software such as ArcGIS.
- Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate 4WD vehicles.
- Capability to conduct fieldwork in various conditions and terrains, and lift 25-50 pounds of equipment.
Nice-to-haves
- Completion of a 38-hour wetland delineation training course.
- Certification from the Society of Wetland Scientists as a Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) or Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT).
- Experience mentoring survey teams in the Pacific NW, and leading site visits with agency personnel.
- Extensive knowledge of botanical species taxonomy and field identification skills.
- Strong client service orientation and exceptional communication skills.
- Willingness to learn new survey techniques and protocols.
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
- Performance bonuses for regular-status employees.
- Flexible work arrangements including hybrid work.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and more.
- Career development programs and opportunities for advancement.
