Principal Scientist/Engineer

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a leading authority in one or more core technical disciplines, providing expert guidance on complex, high-profile projects.
• Lead the development and application of advanced technical approaches, methodologies, and best practices.
• Provide technical oversight and peer review on deliverables, proposals, and strategic initiatives.
• Act as an internal technical resource across disciplines/regions/divisions, supporting integrated, multi-disciplinary solutions.
• Subject matter expert on scientific principles. Demonstrates advanced understanding in applicable fields. Applies systems thinking drawing on a broad set of topics.
• Recognized as a SME internally and externally for achievements and technical expertise.
• Contribute to peer reviewed publications.
• Lead technical analysis of other scientists where appropriate.
• Responsible for data reporting and visualization/mapping, writing plans/reports, producing graphics and regulatory reporting.
• Reviews work products and procedures for quality assurance and control.
• Manage maps and graphics development. Report conclusions.
• Takes complete responsibility for the quality of work performed by self and others, including the quality of deliverables in the area of expertise and quality of deliverables created by others.
• Proficient in communicating technical concepts, both verbally and in written form. Communicates clearly and articulately with clients, experts, and management. Primary or senior author for deliverables.
• Actively seeks the latest technologies related to scientific and engineering principles and practices. Provides innovative and unique ideas; develops new approaches, tools, or techniques.
• Represent the firm externally through conference presentations, technical papers, webinars, panel discussions, and professional committees.
• Build and maintain a strong professional network within the industry.
• Contribute to the firm’s external communications and brand strategy through visible technical leadership.
• Act as a trusted technical advisor to key clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Participate in high-level client meetings, project strategy discussions, and critical technical negotiations.
• Support pursuit teams by shaping technical narratives and value propositions.
• Leverages professional networks to engage locally with the industry on thought leadership such as participating in peer review and/or publishing a peer review.
• Lead the development process for complex proposals.
• Aid in the development of long-term marketing strategies.
• Responsible for developing new client business and participating in strategic planning for the department.
• Mets sales and revenue targets.
• Mentor mid-level and senior staff to develop technical depth, judgment, and professional confidence.
• Delegate technical work appropriately to support staff development and succession planning.
• Support internal training initiatives and communities of practice.
• Shares feedback for performance assessments.
• Helps ensure teams are following company and safety standards.
• Leads initiatives designed to increase technical excellence and improve quality.
• Possesses a desire for lifelong learning. Takes a leadership role in understanding Spheros’ service offerings and other SMEs.
• May serve as PM, Technical PM, Quality Manager, or Principal for project delivery.
• Maintain or assist PM in maintaining project schedules, providing updates, and interim reports.
• Monitor project performance and quality, achievement of milestones/deadlines, and assist with handling challenges and/or barriers to completion.
• Prepare status updates on projects via reports and communicate to leadership, internal and/or external clients.

Qualifications

• At least 15 years of progressive professional experience with demonstrated subject matter expertise.
• A BA or BS degree in science, engineering, or business. (Master's degree preferred).
• Professional Wetland Scientist Certification (PWS), Geologist, Hydrologist, or Engineer if appropriate.