Environmental Scientist

About the position

Position Title: Environmental Scientist (Ecologist) at Research Planning, Inc. (RPI) involves working in the Tallahassee, Florida office, focusing on coastal and marine ecology. The role requires candidates to have knowledge and experience in ecosystems, habitats, and species, particularly in marine environments. Ideal candidates should possess a Master's degree in relevant fields such as biology, ecology, environmental science, marine science, wildlife and fisheries biology, or natural resources management, along with 0-2+ years of post-graduate professional work experience. Alternatively, candidates with a Bachelor's degree in these fields and 3-5+ years of professional experience may also qualify for the position. The Environmental Scientist will engage in a variety of multidisciplinary assignments, including conducting marine debris surveys, assessments, and removals, as well as ensuring environmental compliance. Responsibilities also encompass coastal restoration planning, conceptual design, implementation, performance monitoring, and adaptive management. The role requires conducting National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews, analyses, and report writing for marine and coastal infrastructure projects, such as offshore wind, ports, and ecosystem restoration initiatives. Additionally, the position involves reviewing and interpreting geospatial data for rare and endangered species, consulting with government agencies under various environmental acts, and obtaining necessary permits from federal and state agencies. The candidate will also be involved in scientific planning and response to environmental incidents, such as oil spills and natural disasters, and may conduct related fieldwork both nationally and internationally. Candidates must demonstrate strong organizational and documentation skills, effective communication abilities, and the capacity to work independently and collaboratively. Field experience and the ability to conduct strenuous fieldwork are essential, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and data management is preferred. The role may require travel, including extended periods on short notice, and offers opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a multidisciplinary environment.

Responsibilities
? Conduct marine debris surveys, assessments, and removals while ensuring environmental compliance.
,
? Engage in coastal restoration planning, conceptual design, implementation, performance monitoring, and adaptive management.
,
? Perform National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews, analyses, and report writing for marine and coastal infrastructure projects.
,
? Review, analyze, and interpret geospatial data for rare, imperiled, and endangered species from various sources.
,
? Consult with government agencies under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and other relevant environmental regulations.
,
? Obtain necessary permits from federal and state agencies, including U.S Army Corps of Engineers Section 404/10 permitting.
,
? Plan and respond scientifically to environmental incidents such as oil spills and natural disasters.
,
? Conduct related coastal and marine fieldwork that may occur nationwide and internationally.

Requirements
? Master's degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, marine science, wildlife and fisheries biology, or natural resources management.
,
? 0-2+ years of post-graduate professional work experience, or a Bachelor's degree with 3-5+ years of professional experience.
,
? Strong organizational and documentation skills.
,
? Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with co-workers, agency personnel, and clients.
,
? Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
,
? Understanding of coastal and marine ecology and the potential impacts of projects on habitats and species.
,
? Strong writing skills are essential.
,
? Field experience and ability to conduct fieldwork under strenuous conditions are required.
,
? Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Nice-to-haves
? Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
,
? Skills in data management and statistical analyses.

Benefits
? Employee assistance program
,
? Health savings account
,
? Professional development assistance
,
? Profit sharing
,
? Relocation assistance

Apply Job!