Stream Restoration Engineer

About the Role

I'm working with a well-established, purpose-driven environmental consultancy that has built a strong reputation in stream and watershed restoration across the Mid-Atlantic. Off the back of continued project wins, they're looking to bring in a Restoration Designer to support a growing pipeline of work. Their model is slightly different from a typical consultancy - they operate with a strong focus on design-build restoration, meaning you'll see projects through from concept all the way into implementation. It's a much more hands-on environment where the engineering, fieldwork, and ecological outcomes all connect.

What You'll Be Doing

This role is centered around stream restoration design with a strong engineering component - not just planning, but detailed technical delivery.

Day-to-day:

• Developing stream restoration designs (channel alignment, profiles, cross-sections, grading)
• Supporting hydraulic analysis and design integration with engineering teams
• Preparing construction plans, specifications, and cost estimates
• Carrying out fieldwork including geomorphic assessments and data collection
• Contributing to watershed-level analysis to inform restoration strategies
• Coordinating across disciplines (engineering, ecology, construction) for full project delivery
• Taking ownership of technical workstreams as you progress

At the more senior end (Level III):

• Leading elements of stream restoration design and project delivery
• Reviewing work and mentoring junior staff
• Supporting project coordination, schedules, and deliverables
• Acting as a key technical contributor across multiple active projects

Core Requirements

• Degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Civil Engineering, or similar
• 3-10 years of experience in restoration, water resources, or related work
• Experience with stream restoration design, grading, or channel work
• Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D (surfaces, profiles, grading) and ArcGIS
• Solid understanding of hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, and channel stability

Nice to Have

• Experience with HEC-RAS or similar hydraulic modelling tools
• Exposure to stormwater design and integration with restoration projects
• Familiarity with permitting (USACE, state/local agencies)
• Experience supporting projects through construction/implementation
• Mentoring experience (for more senior candidates)

Working Style & Flexibility

• Flexible hybrid setup depending on your preference
• Open to fully remote if you're not near an office location
• Field/site visits are part of the role (projects across MD, Southern PA, and VA)

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Strong backlog of secured stream and watershed restoration projects
• A genuine design-build environment - not just reports, but real delivery
• Opportunity to work on technically complex channel and hydraulic challenges
• Clear progression into technical lead / project leadership roles
• A team that genuinely values collaboration, field input, and practical engineering solutions

Who This Suits

Someone who enjoys the engineering side of stream restoration - the "how it works" behind the design - and wants to be involved in projects that actually get built. It's particularly well-suited to someone in that 3-10 year range looking to step up in responsibility without losing the hands-on technical element.