Senior Ecologist/Biologist – Team Leader

VHB•Raleigh, NC

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

VHB is seeking a North Carolina-based Senior Ecologist/Biologist with strong business development acumen to join our growing Environmental Services team. Based in either Raleigh or Charlotte, this role will blend technical leadership in the field of ecology and permitting with a key focus on strategic business development across the Mid-Atlantic region. You’ll lead pursuits, grow our presence in target markets, and support delivery of impactful projects. The successful candidate will be instrumental in expanding our portfolio in land development, transportation infrastructure, federal/local/state government, energy pipelines and coastal resiliency markets. You will collaborate closely with other environmental leaders and market teams to deliver high-quality services, support project execution, and build and mentor a high-performing team. Recent project highlights include: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse relocation and site management Resilient roadway and shoreline protection in the Town of Duck, NC Raleigh to Richmond Passenger Rail: Achieving 30 Percent Design | VHB Pipeline permitting and reactivation projects from Appalachia through NC and VA

Requirements

Advanced knowledge of ecological surveys, wetland delineation, threatened/endangered species evaluations, and mitigation planning.
In-depth familiarity with NEPA, Clean Water Act (Section 404/401), and related state and federal environmental regulations.
Experience with gas/energy pipeline projects, coastal and flood resilience work, and large-scale infrastructure development.
Proficient in ArcGIS (including Field Maps and AGOL) and Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong interpersonal, proposal writing, and verbal communication skills.
Collaborative leadership style with the ability to mentor staff and work cross-functionally.
B.S. in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, or a related field (M.S. preferred).
11–15+ years of progressive ecological consulting experience, with proven business development success.
Strong portfolio of client relationships and project wins in key markets (transportation, energy, coastal resiliency, land development, federal/state agencies).
Demonstrated experience managing field teams, regulatory permitting, and complex ecological projects.

Nice To Haves

Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), WPIT, CWB, or similar certifications preferred.
OSHA 40-hr HAZWOPER certification and/or LEED AP a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead and grow a team of environmental professionals focused on ecological assessments and regulatory permitting in North and South Carolina.
Drive business development in strategic market sectors: coastal resiliency, energy, pipeline, federal, state/local government, and transportation.
Identify, pursue, and win new project opportunities, including on-call contracts.
Cultivate client relationships and build a sustainable book of business to support a growing team and collaborate across VHB’s Mid-Atlantic region.
Oversee and conduct fieldwork such as wetland and waters delineations, rare species surveys (e.g., bat surveys), and habitat assessments.
Manage the preparation of technical documents, environmental permits (401/404, NEPA), and agency coordination.
Lead proposal development, scope and budget planning, and resource allocation for diverse projects.
Actively engage with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies to guide project development and approvals.
Collaborate with internal environmental teams across the Mid-Atlantic to share expertise and deliver integrated solutions.