Permitting Specialist

Tetra Tech is seeking a highly motivated Mid-level Wetland Biologist to join our team and support field surveys in the Great Plains and Western Mountains (CO, NE, WY, MT, and ND) and subsequent reporting. We are looking for an enthusiastic scientist prepared to learn and grow their experience with biological resources, natural resources, and technical writing.

About the role

This position will be based out of Billings, MT and will play a key role in preparing and supporting environmental review and permitting efforts under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA). Work coverage includes Montana, Nebraska, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Idaho.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and support NEPA and MEPA documentation, including Environmental Assessments and related technical reports
• Lead or assist with environmental permit strategy, regulatory coordination, and document development
• Conduct project research, impact analysis, and technical writing for public and agency-facing documents
• Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies on environmental review requirements
• Support biological resource field efforts as needed, including wetlands, vegetation, streams, and sensitive species
• Assist with project planning, scheduling, and quality control of deliverables
• Work collaboratively with internal teams, clients, and subject matter experts
• Conduct fieldwork safely in various environmental conditions, adhering to Tetra Tech’s health and safety policies

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in biology, Environmental Science, or a related field is required
• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience as a Permitting Specialist or related role, with a focus on NEPA/MEPA compliance and Environmental Assessments
• Experience with local Montana county-level permitting is preferred
• Detail-oriented with excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, ArcGIS Pro, and other relevant software tools
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Willingness to learn and adaptability to changing project needs
• Ability to conduct fieldwork, including traversing uneven terrain and lifting up to 50 pounds
• Excellent organization and oral/written communication skills
• Ability to take clear and accurate field notes by hand or on a tablet/smartphone
• Ability to prioritize assignments in time-critical situations
• Strong analytical skills to draw valid, defensible conclusions from data
• Flexibility to travel (land and/or air), at times on short notice
• Valid driver’s license in good standing and ability to pass a motor vehicle background check
• U.S. citizenship is required due to project requirements
• If required for the position, ability to obtain a CAC card, CUI Enclave Access, and/or Security Clearance (background check will be completed)

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to remain in a stationary position and traverse uneven terrain for extended periods during field assessments
• Manual dexterity for operating field sampling equipment, writing, and data entry
• Ability to work in various environmental conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity

Work Environment

• Combination of office and fieldwork settings, with fieldwork primarily conducted outdoors
• Occasional travel to project sites, including remote locations requiring overnight stays
• Exposure to natural environments such as wetlands, streams, and construction sites, requiring adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Benefits

• Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits
• Merit-based financial rewards
• Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance
• Collaborative team atmosphere valuing employee contributions
• Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth