Wetland Scientist (PWS)

About the role

PACE Engineers, a Verdantas Company, is seeking an Ecologist/Wetland Scientist for our growing Environmental team. This role is results-driven and aligned with the organization's strategic goals, requiring initiative, a competitive mindset, and the ability to stay focused during change. The ideal candidate is confident, self-assured, and capable of inspiring others while maintaining a firm, goal-oriented leadership style.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee critical area and wetland delineations in accordance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) guidelines and regional supplements.
• Manage all phases of environmental projects including proposal development, budgeting, fieldwork, regulatory coordination, reporting, and client communication.
• Prepare and review high-quality technical documents such as wetland delineation reports, critical area reports, jurisdictional determinations, mitigation plans, HPA, and Section 404/401 permit applications.
• Serve as a primary liaison with federal, state, and local agencies on environmental permitting and compliance matters.
• Guide the development and implementation of wetland restoration, mitigation, and monitoring plans.
• Supervise, mentor, and provide technical guidance to junior and mid-level staff.
• Utilize GIS and data management tools to support project planning and analysis.
• Ensure all project work meets regulatory requirements, internal standards, and client expectations.
• Stay current on evolving environmental regulations, guidance, and best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of professional experience in wetland science, environmental consulting, or natural resource management.
• In-depth knowledge of federal and state wetland regulations, including Clean Water Act Section 404/401 permitting.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex environmental projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in conducting wetland delineations, functional assessments, and habitat evaluations.
• Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills; ability to present complex concepts clearly to clients and regulators.
• Experience completing complex mitigation and bank-use plans.
• Proficient in GIS mapping, GPS field tools, and environmental data analysis.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel for fieldwork and client meetings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) certification or eligibility.
• Experience in client development, proposal writing, and strategic project planning.
• Familiarity with NEPA, ESA, and other environmental compliance frameworks.
• Expertise in wetland mitigation banking, ecosystem restoration, or long-term monitoring programs.
• Experience in regulatory negotiation and agency coordination.
• Regional Experience.

Benefits

• Hybrid work model & flexible scheduling
• 401(k) with up to 3.5% company match
• Medical, dental, vision, HSA/FSAP
• Paid time off, holidays, and wellness programs
• Short & long-term disability, life, and AD&D insurance
• Culture that supports belonging, equity, and inclusion

Pay

$95,000 To $135,000 (USD) Annually

Schedule

Hybrid work model & flexible scheduling