Environmental Scientist 5

Job Description

We are seeking a biologist, ecologist, or environmental scientist to support natural-based solutions projects. This candidate will primarily assist with regulatory compliance efforts for federal, state, and local environmental projects in CDM Smith's portfolio, with focus on fisheries science, protected species, floodplains and wetlands, stream and habitat assessments, and associated permitting tasks.

Job Description

• Work with a dynamic team supporting federal agencies, states, local communities, tribes, and territories as they undertake projects to become more resilient in the face of disasters, natural hazards, and a changing world.

• Assess potential impacts of projects on species and habitats, prepare No Effect memos and biological assessments, and conduct surveys and desktop evaluations to determine the existence of, and potential impact on, threatened and endangered species.

• Conduct surveys, assessments, and reviews of water quality, wetlands, and other ecologically significant or geographically unique areas. Design field surveys and lead field teams.

• Perform analyses to ensure all reasonable alternatives have been evaluated in accordance with criteria and document in written reports.

• Conduct site inspections and ensure that any proposed project actions comply with environmental, floodplain, and wetland laws, regulations, and executive orders.

• Contribute to the production of environmental assessments and environmental impact statements.

• Provide technical expertise to assist with evaluation of effects on floodplains and wetlands to support documentation needed for compliance with Executive Order 11988 and Executive Order 11990.

• Mentor junior staff to help them expand their technical skills and capabilities.

• Collaborate on the preparation of proposals and provide expertise on technical approaches.

Employment Type

Regular

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Science or related discipline with professional scientist registration/certification OR Master's degree in Science or related discipline. 7 years of related experience. Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in fisheries science and wetlands preferred.

• 7 to 15 years of related experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Fisheries, Ecology, Wildlife and Fisheries Science or Management, or related discipline.

• Demonstrated technical writing skills (reports), ability to analyze technical information and synthesize results into a report, effective written and oral communication skills.

• Wetland delineation certification or training.

• Field experience with special-status species surveys, habitat assessments, and wetland delineation, especially in the western U.S.

• Regulatory experience in permitting, due diligence, and compliance monitoring.

• Knowledge and experience with CERCLA projects.

• Experience working with federal and state regulations and codes. Experience analyzing compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and other applicable laws, implementing regulations, and Executive Orders, as well as preparing necessary documents to demonstrate compliance.

• Experience writing Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Statements, and/or Biological Assessments.