Wetland Scientist

~ At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. ~

While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists. That’s why we believe diversity is our greatest strength. HDR is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer.

We believe that the way we work can add meaning and value to the world. That ideas inspire positive change. That coloring outside the lines can illuminate fresh perspectives. And that small details yield important realizations. Above all, we believe that collaboration is the best way forward.

Position Overview

HDR is seeking a motivated and career-oriented mid-level wetland scientist for a full-time regular position in our Anchorage, Alaska office. The successful candidate must have 5+ years of Alaska-based experience in wetland and riparian ecology, wetland delineations, plant identification, hydric soils, and wetland and waterbody functional assessments.

Responsibilities

In the role of Environmental Scientist, we'll count on you to:

• Work as a member of high-performing teams on a variety of natural resource assessments to support development of public and private infrastructure projects throughout Alaska.
• Work with a team of scientists to conduct wetland and stream delineations and functional assessments, vegetation surveys, wildlife surveys, and other field activities in urban and remote settings. Includes work on remote field assignments in adverse weather conditions often on irregular and steep terrain.
• Prepare written environmental reports including wetland and stream delineation reports, biological assessments, monitoring reports, etc., and develop mitigation options, plans and documents to address project impacts.
• Prepare documentation to support Clean Water Act Permitting, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 10 and 404 permits, NEPA compliance, Endangered Species Act consultation, and other state/local permits.
• Contribute as an author on environmental planning documents such as NEPA Environmental Impact Statements or Environmental Assessments, interpreting technical information into a reader friendly format.

Other duties may include:

• NEPA documentation, compensatory mitigation plans and debit/credit analysis, and environmental permitting.
• Critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, excellent writing skills, working well with others, and a willingness to learn are essential for this position.
• Technical writing experience is required.
• A demonstrated commitment to safety and quality is required.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or closely related field.
• 5+ years of experience managing and/or conducting analyses in support of biological and/or environmental projects with at least 2 years leading wetlands delineation teams; Master’s degree may account for up to 2 years of experience.
• Experience with wetland delineations using the 2007 Alaska Regional Supplement wetland delineation manual.
• Ability to identify common Alaska plant species and/or characterize hydric soils.
• Knowledge of federal regulatory framework, including NEPA and CWA Section 10/404.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to interpret and analyze data, proactively identify and solve problems.
• Excellent technical and analytical writing skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Technical expertise in the design, implementation, interpretation, and presentation of data for environmental studies and investigations.
• Strong conceptual organizational problem solving and research abilities.
• Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to work in a fast paced work environment with changing deadlines and priorities.
• Demonstrated familiarity with Federal and/or Alaska state/local permits.
• Experience with GIS software.
• Valid Alaska State Driver’s license.
• Proficiency in Adobe Acrobat and Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• A demonstrated commitment to safety and quality, and an attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture.

Desired Qualifications:

• M.S. degree in Biology or relevant field of study (i.e. environmental science, botany, ecology, natural sciences, natural resource management).
• Field data collection expertise in wetlands and streams using GPS units.
• Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) or Wetland Professional In Training (WPIT) certification.
• Local candidates preferred.

Additional Qualifications:

• Successful candidates shall be self-motivated and proficient in wetland delineations in Alaska, general wetland science and botany throughout Alaska, development of technical reports as well as possess an understanding of Clean Water Act Section 404 regulations and NEPA documentation.
• Must have experience with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 2007 Alaska Regional Supplement and be willing and able to work independently, manage field crews, communicate with resource and regulatory agencies, and have strong technical writing skills.