Project Scientist, Ecological Restoration

~ Downstream Strategies was founded in 1997 and currently has a staff of 16. We have a fast-paced, dynamic, interdisciplinary, collaborative work environment. ~

Our clients include government agencies (federal, state, and local), nonprofit organizations, universities, attorneys, businesses, and individuals. Whether a project involves a specific permit, a watershed, or a national program, we believe that all stakeholders deserve sound science and policy analysis. Many of our final reports can be found here.

Our main office is located in Morgantown, West Virginia, and we also maintain offices in Davis and Alderson, West Virginia. The position may be based in Davis or Morgantown and will require significant travel throughout the Mid-Atlantic Highlands region.

Position Overview

Downstream Strategies offers environmental consulting services to help build resilient communities, promote economic development, and protect the environment.

We seek an ecologically-minded Project Scientist, Ecological Restoration to lead and support projects as part of a small, fast-paced, and dynamic team. Project goals may include mitigation, habitat enhancement, stream bank stabilization, sediment load reduction, and water quality improvement. This work often involves close cooperation with project partners, agencies, and landowners. It requires field work in remote locations.

Responsibilities

Specific task include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Restoration assessment data collection and analysis, including stream geomorphology and floodplain surveys, substrate sampling, and discharge measurements.
• Water quality sampling, including aquatic biology and habitat assessment.
• Wetland delineation.
• Restoration design, including preparation of grading plans and project plan sheets using AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, Microsoft Publisher, and Microsoft Office.
• Construction management.
• Project monitoring and reporting.
• Assistance with and leadership on the preparation of project proposals, scopes of work, budgets, and schedules.
• Direct interaction with clients to help develop projects.
• Participation in fostering an interdisciplinary atmosphere at Downstream Strategies.

Qualifications

Requirements:

• Experience with ArcGIS and AutoCAD Civil 3D.
• Experience collecting stream and wetland field data for stream and wetland restoration projects.
• Experience developing stream and wetland restoration plans (project examples will be requested prior to interviewing).
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects, work independently, and complete tasks on schedule.
• A valid driver’s license.

Preferred additional skills and characteristics:

• Master’s degree or professional engineering license.
• Experience with stream and wetland permitting requirements in West Virginia, Maryland, and/or Virginia.
• 5 - 10 years’ professional experience.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Compensation: This is a full-time, salaried position. Salary will be based on education, experience, and commitment. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; retirement; and a flexible policy for paid time off. Future benefits may also include a share of company ownership.

Additional Information

Morgantown is an historic town along the banks of the Monongahela River. Best known as the home of West Virginia University, Morgantown is 75 miles south of Pittsburgh, and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of outdoor recreation activities including hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting, and skiing.

Davis is surrounded by the Monongahela National Forest, Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, two state parks, and a state wildlife management area. The area is one of the most popular locations in the eastern U.S. for mountain biking. Home to two downhill ski areas, one cross country ski touring center, and miles of public trails, it is also a winter-sports hub. Hunting, fishing, rafting, and swimming are other popular activities. Davis and its neighboring town of Thomas are home to grocery stores, coffee shops, art galleries, restaurants, music venues, and two popular craft breweries.

To Apply

• Please click "Apply"  to upload your cover letter, resume, and three references to Jennifer Newland by 5:00 pm, August 24, 2018.
• Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will begin as soon as possible.