Associate Scientist – NEPA/Environmental Planning

  • Full-time

Company Description

We are Olsson, a team-based, purpose-driven engineering and design firm. Our solutions improve communities and our people make it possible.

Our most meaningful asset is our people, and we are dedicated to providing an environment where they can continue to learn, grow, and thrive. Our entrepreneurial spirit is what has allowed us — and will continue to allow us — to grow. The result? Inspired people, amazing designs, and projects with purpose.

Job Description

At Olsson, we help our clients navigate the complexities of environmental regulations and incorporate environmental stewardship into project design. We provide expertise in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, and other federal, state, and local environmental regulations, allowing our clients to develop projects that not only meet their needs but consider environmental resources in their designs. Join our Environmental team as an Associate Scientist and play a pivotal role in shaping the environmental narrative for major federal and state projects. As a key contributor, you will take on the responsibility of authoring and contributing to NEPA documents, including categorical exclusions, environmental assessments, and environmental impact statements.

As an Associate Scientist, you will:

  • Contribute significantly to the creation of NEPA documents, ensuring a high standard of quality and adherence to regulatory requirements.
  • Craft documents ranging from categorical exclusions to environmental impact statements.
  • Author supporting documentation for NEPA assessments, including hazardous materials assessments, wetland memos, and environmental justice analyses.
  • Demonstrate attention to detail and thoroughness in documenting and analyzing various environmental factors.
  • Actively participate in meetings with federal and state agencies, and the public, fostering positive relationships and ensuring alignment with project objectives.
  • Navigate regulatory discussions and provide expert insights on environmental compliance matters.
  • Collaborate seamlessly across various teams and offices, leveraging diverse expertise to enhance the overall quality of project deliverables.
  • Undertake field work by traveling to job sites and applying your expertise in real-world scenarios.
  • Ensure on-site assessments and data collection align with project requirements and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

You are passionate about:

  • Working collaboratively with others
  • Having ownership in the work you do
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.

You bring to the team:

  • Strong technical writing skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to contribute and work well on a team.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Avian Ecology, Environmental or Urban Planning, Environmental Resources, or a similar area of study
  • 3+ years of NEPA experience
  • Availability to travel to project sites for fieldwork
  • A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
  • Willingness to work a flexible work schedule
  • Knowledge of environmental laws and regulations such as environmental justice and civil rights, Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Endangered Species Act, cultural and historic preservation laws, etc. preferred.
  • Experience with data collection utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS)/Geographic Position Systems (GPS) is beneficial.
  • Experience participating in public meetings and public open houses. 
  • The ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.

Additional Information

Olsson is a nationally recognized, employee-owned firm specializing in planning and design, engineering, field services, environmental, and technology. Founded in 1956 on the very mindset that drives us today, we’re here to improve communities by making them more sustainable, better connected, and more efficient. Simply put, we work to leave the world better than we found it.

As an Olsson employee, you’ll receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.), plus you’ll:

  • Become an owner in the company after your first year through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Engage in work that has a positive impact in communities
  • Receive an excellent 401(k) match
  • Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles
  • Benefit from a bonus system that rewards performance
  • Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements

Typical range for this position is $66,000 to $87,000+ and is commensurate with experience relative to the position.

Olsson is an EEO employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, or military status.

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