Principal Investigator

Olsson engineers and designs solutions that improve the world around us. We are a people-centric firm that values responsiveness, transparency, and results. Our greatest asset is our people, and we foster an environment that encourages growth, creativity, and lasting impact.

About the role

At Olsson, we help clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes, ensuring proactive compliance with key environmental laws, including the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). This role focuses on cultural resources investigations and archaeological work for transportation, energy, and infrastructure projects across the U.S. As the Principal Investigator, you will plan, oversee, and support these investigations, ensuring compliance with NHPA, NEPA, and other regulations. The role emphasizes technical excellence, mentorship, regulatory expertise, and high-level review of deliverables.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a firmwide subject matter expert, providing internal and external leadership on cultural resources compliance.
• Provide strategic direction and consultation to project teams and clients on complex issues, regulatory pathways, and technical methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations, including NHPA, ARPA, and NEPA requirements.
• Plan, scope, prepare, and review field investigations, analyses, technical reports, and documentation.
• Maintain a strong external reputation as a technical leader through publications, conference presentations, and participation in scientific or regulatory working groups.
• Promote efficiencies and uphold quality standards, ensuring deliverables meet scientific rigor and regulatory defensibility.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, scientific partners, and industry organizations.
• Represent the firm in professional organizations, advisory committees, or regulatory forums to elevate the firm’s visibility.
• Lead and manage projects from early planning through implementation, including scoping, technical strategy, budgeting, scheduling, and quality oversight.
• Mentor and develop staff, fostering technical growth, scientific excellence, and consistency across the firm.

Requirements

• Graduate degree (e.g., M.A., M.S., or Ph.D.) in archaeology, anthropology, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• 12+ years of relevant post-education experience in Section 106/110 Compliance.
• Experience in cultural resource management in the Midwest or South.
• Experience in leading and mentoring others.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Innovative and proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development, including participation in professional organizations.

Benefits

• Competitive 401(k) match.
• Tailored development paths and career-building opportunities.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles.
• Health care, vision, dental, and paid time off for full-time employees.
• Opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.

Pay

Colorado Pay Range: $150,000—$240,000 USD. Actual compensation will vary based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, skills, education, and internal equity.

This position is open to candidates located in any of our office locations or remote.