Environmental Scientist

Our Business

We are a global leader in environmental consulting - made stronger with the recent acquisition of Golder - with world-class expertise in environmental, social and governance (ESG), climate resiliency & sustainability (CRS), and earth sciences. Combined we have over 14,000 multidisciplinary professionals worldwide collaborating daily to protect and conserve natural landscapes, create firm foundations for communities to stand on, and champion sustainable development to combat climate change.

As part of the team, you will have access to an unparalleled network of resources and endless opportunities to collaborate on exciting projects with diverse teammates from across the globe.

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Environmental Scientist for our Chicago, IL office. The following locations will also be considered: Peoria, IL. Be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client's objectives and solves their challenges.

Your Impact

• Collect, identify, and compile observational, spatial, and environmental data from samples of air, soil, water, sludge, and other matrices for projects, investigations, and surveys.
• Use topographic maps, aerial photographs, GPS units, and other maps and tools to determine exact locations of project areas, site impact, habitat types, and associated physical and wildlife sensitivities.
• Assist with preparing environmental survey reports, data entry, impact assessment, and assist with permitting activities for assigned projects (e.g. Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act permitting, CEQA, NEPA, etc.).
• Maintain quality control standards and procedures for accurate and precise measurements, statistical analysis, and reporting.
• Perform professional environmental science work and assist with conducting investigations, inspections, and environmental studies and surveys to gain further information on a particular environmental problem or issue, verify site characteristics, and/or to plan for future environmental needs.
• Prepare data and visualizations such as tables, charts, accurate reports, and illustrations for the interpretation or presentation of data, findings, or analyses.
• Write technical reports summarizing research with findings and conclusions, generating complete, accurate, and concise documentation using electronic systems, field/work site notes, and software.
• Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, the maintenance of sample collection, laboratory documentation, written procedures, monitoring systems, and logbooks.
• Maintain and calibrate equipment and tools, troubleshooting and reporting on malfunctions, and performing inventory control activities.
• Assist in the analysis, evaluation, and interpretation of environmental data obtained during field investigations, offering input with developing action plans for low to mid-level threat mitigation and permitting activities projects to minimize impacts to the health of the environment and the population.
• Assist with development and scoping of small- to medium-sized projects.
• Work with cross-functional teams in executing project work.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, or a related life sciences field.
• 3 to 5 years of experience working as an environmental scientist and completing environmental surveys, fieldwork, habitat and impact assessments, and/or construction monitoring.
• Prior experience with GIS software and Trimble GPS units and ability to use technology for data collection.
• Analytical skills, and prior experience with research techniques, local/regional ecology and habitats, and applicable species required.
• Knowledge of relevant environmental laws, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
• Capable interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to a scientific and non-scientific audience.
• Effective self-leadership with attention to detail, results orientation, and managing multiple priorities in a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, follow instruction, work independently, and comply with company policies.
• Moderate proficiency with business writing, office automation and communication software, technology, and tools.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to reach conclusions from testing results, data collation, and identify the most effective manner to accomplish objectives of assigned projects.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree is preferred.
• 40-Hour OSHA Health & Safety Training (HAZWOPER) (29 CFR 1910.120) preferred.
• Basic First Aid and Adult CPR training desired.