Wetland Project Scientist I

RK&K is seeking a Natural Resources Project Scientist with strong wetland expertise to support a variety of environmental and natural resource projects. This role involves fieldwork, data analysis, technical reporting, and coordination with engineers, planners, and regulatory agencies to support permitting, compliance, and environmental stewardship efforts. 

Essential Functions 

• Support natural resource and environmental projects from planning through execution and reporting 
• Conduct field investigations including wetland delineations, hydrology/soil assessments, vegetation surveys, habitat assessments, and ecological monitoring 
• Collect, analyze, and interpret environmental, biological, and geospatial data 
• Prepare technical reports, wetland delineation reports, mitigation plans, environmental assessments, and permit applications 
• Support regulatory permitting efforts under federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., USACE Section 404/401, EPA, NC DEQ) 
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary project teams, including engineers, planners, and construction staff 
• Participate in client meetings and agency coordination as needed 
• Maintain accurate field notes, data records, and project documentation 
• Support project schedules, budgets, and quality control standards 

Required Skills and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, or a related field 
• Four (4) + years of experience in environmental consulting or natural resources, with demonstrated wetland experience 
• Experience with fieldwork and environmental data collection 
• Proficiency in wetland plant identification 
• GIS experience (ArcGIS or similar) 
• Familiarity with environmental regulations and permitting processes 
• Strong technical writing and communication skills 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively 
• Willingness to perform fieldwork in varying outdoor conditions 

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Master's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, or a related field
• Experience conducting wetland delineations, stream assessments, and preparing jurisdictional determinations for transportation or linear infrastructure projects
• Wetland delineation certification (e.g., PWS, USACE training)
• NC Wetland Assessment Method (NCWAM) Training
• NC Stream Assessment Method (NCSAM) Training
• DEQ Surface Water Identification Training (SWIT)
• Experience supporting transportation projects, including roadway, bridge, transit, greenway, utility corridor, or other linear infrastructure developments
• Familiarity with NEPA documentation, environmental permitting, and agency coordination for NCDOT, FHWA, USACE, and state regulatory agencies
• Experience preparing permit applications and supporting compliance with Section 404, Section 401, stream buffer, and threatened and endangered species requirements
• Experience supporting wetland and stream mitigation, restoration, or compensatory mitigation projects associated with infrastructure improvements
• Experience conducting habitat assessments and environmental field studies for transportation corridor projects
• Proficiency using GIS to support environmental constraints mapping, alternatives analysis, and project permitting efforts
• FAA Part 107 License

Work Environment 

Combination of office, field, and remote work depending on project needs. Fieldwork may involve walking uneven terrain, working in wetlands, and exposure to varying weather conditions. 

What We Offer 

• Paid time off 
• Hybrid work (home and office) 
• Tuition reimbursement 
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance 
• Matching 401(k) plan 
• Paid holidays 
• Much more! 

Why RK&K? 

As a full service engineering and construction management firm, RK&K gives you the opportunity to directly impact the communities in which we live and work. For over 100 years, we have fostered a culture of collaboration, trust, and technical excellence. Apply today and design your career at RK&K!