Senior Water Resources Engineer, Geomorphologist, or Scientist (Project Manager)

Natural Systems Design•Seattle, WA

1d•$110,000 - $140,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Natural Systems Design is seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer, Geomorphologist, or Scientist with a strong background in managing and delivering multi-objective projects. The successful candidate will have a foundation in fluvial and/or watershed processes and a demonstrated ability to lead projects, manage multidisciplinary teams, and deliver high-quality work on schedule and within budget. This role combines technical leadership with project management responsibilities, including scope, schedule, budget, team coordination, and client relationship management. The ideal candidate is comfortable leading technical analyses and designs as well as driving projects to successful completion. This position is crucial for advancing the company's mission of delivering innovative, science-driven restoration and resilience solutions across Washington State. The position is located in Seattle, Bellingham, or Port Angeles, Washington, with a hybrid model of in-office and remote work. A fully remote option may be considered for qualified candidates residing in or willing to relocate to Washington State.

Requirements

BS in Civil/Environmental Engineering, Geomorphology, Earth Science, or related field
10+ years of relevant experience in water resources, restoration, or related fields
Demonstrated experience serving as a Project Manager, including managing budgets, schedules, and client relationships
Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and complex projects
Experience with hydraulic, hydrologic, and/or geomorphic analysis tools (e.g., HEC-RAS, SRH2D, GIS, sediment transport methods)
Experience with design tools such as AutoCAD Civil 3D or MicroStation (or ability to oversee their use)
Strong foundation in process-based restoration and/or water resources design
Professional licensure or certification preferred (e.g., PE or equivalent relevant credential depending on discipline)
Candidates without licensure may be considered if they demonstrate senior-level technical expertise and project leadership experience

Nice To Haves

MS or PhD preferred

Responsibilities

Lead technical analysis, design, and/or scientific evaluation for river, floodplain, and wetland restoration projects
Apply expertise in geomorphology, hydraulics, hydrology, sediment transport, and/or restoration science
Develop and oversee design plans, modeling efforts, calculations, specifications, and cost estimates
Ensure technical quality and consistency across deliverables
Lead hydraulic, hydrologic, and/or geomorphic analyses using tools such as HEC-RAS, SRH2D, RiverFlow-2D, GIS, and related methods
Oversee development of CAD-based design deliverables (e.g., Civil 3D, MicroStation)
Integrate field data (survey, LiDAR, geomorphic assessments) into analyses and designs
Develop and manage project scopes, schedules, budgets, and staffing plans
Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and in alignment with NSD QAQC standards
Proactively manage project risks, scope changes, and internal/external coordination
Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring consistent performance and delivery
Serve as primary client contact and build strong, trusted relationships
Lead or support proposal development, including scoping, budgeting, and technical approach
Identify and pursue new project opportunities aligned with NSD’s mission and expertise
Represent NSD in client meetings, workshops, and industry settings
Lead multidisciplinary project teams across engineering, geomorphology, GIS, and ecology
Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and QA/QC review for junior and mid-level staff
Contribute to staff development and continuous improvement of team workflows