Ecological Environmental Professional

Lead Wetland Ecologist

We are seeking a lead wetland ecologist in our Chicago, Illinois office to lead project work in the ecological consulting field. This position requires experience with wetland delineation methodologies, Midwest natural communities, identification of Midwest flora, technical report writing, GIS analysis, and assistance with regulatory permit application preparation. Projects will involve field labor, oversight and mentoring of field crews, and technical report writing.

The role includes leadership in the growth of an ecological practice in Illinois, with the support of GEI’s existing ecological teams in Wisconsin and Michigan.

Additional duties will include project planning and management, assistance with business development and preparation of proposals, client, subcontractor and regulatory agency interaction.

This is an excellent opportunity to challenge your project and client management skills, collaborate with other environmental and engineering professionals, learn from our senior staff and gain a wide range of experience.

• Leading wetland delineations, vegetation monitoring, rare species surveys, wildlife surveys, and willingness to assist with a variety of other ecological project tasks.
• Interpreting permits to understand impact to field data collection needs.
• Collecting field data, analyzing data, and preparing technical reports.
• Utilize GPS units to collect variety of field data such as natural resource features and boundaries.
• Interpreting aerial photography.
• Being a mentor to junior staff.
• May be required to spend 1-4 nights per week or more out of town working at remote locations.
• A typical work day consists of an 8-12 hour day, includes irregular hours (40-55 hours per week), and irregular starting and quitting times, in accordance with the requirements of the assigned job.
• Work on a variety of environmental projects throughout the Region, but primarily in Illinois.
• Prepare and assist with proposals and business development activities.

• Five years of wetland and natural resource related experience in Illinois and the Midwest.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences (Ecology, Environmental Science, Botany, Biology, Fisheries, Forestry) or equivalent experience.
• Experience with wetland delineation methodologies including plant identification, soil characterization, and identification of hydric soil field indicators.
• Experience identifying Midwest flora.
• Experience with vegetation monitoring and sampling methodologies.
• Strong technical report writing and preparation skills.
• Effective time management and follow-through, with the ability to simultaneously work on and lead multiple tasks/projects and meet project deadlines.
• Positive, flexible, team-oriented approach, with the willingness and desire to work as a part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Ability to work independently and with a diverse, multi-disciplinary team in a fast-paced work environment.
• Physical ability to perform field work in summer and winter conditions.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license.

• Certified Wetland Scientist (CWS) or Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) wetland delineator credentials or ability to obtain within a couple years.
• Prior consulting experience.
• Experience with renewable energy project consulting and permitting.
• Experience with corridor / utility projects.
• Experience with environmental investigation.
• Experience working with clients and managing project schedules and finances.

Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.

We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges.

With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry.

Employee-owned. Employee-focused.

As an employee-owned company, our…