Associate Environmental Specialist

GAI Consultants Inc; Homestead (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Market-based competitive compensation

Performance-driven recognition and development bonuses

Medical, dental, and vision plans

Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave

401(k) with company match

Job summary

GAI Consultants Inc is searching for an Associate Environmental Specialist located in Homestead, PA. This role involves supporting ecological studies, including assisting with environmental field surveys and preparing permit applications. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Sciences and some field survey experience.

The successful applicant will engage in data collection and must be ready for travel as required. Benefits include competitive pay, medical coverage, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• BS/MS degree in Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Up to 2 years of experience conducting environmental field surveys.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist with environmental field surveys including wetland and stream delineations.
• Data collection using handheld GPS.
• Preparation of permit applications and environmental reports.

Skills

Field survey techniques

Data collection using GPS

Technical writing

Microsoft Office applications

ArcGIS

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Sciences or similar field

Tools

Handheld GPS

Job description

Pittsburgh (Homestead PA)
385 East Waterfront Drive
Homestead, PA 15120, USA

GAI Consultants, Inc., is seeking an Associate Environmental Specialist to support ecological studies. This position will report to our Homestead, PA office.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with environmental field surveys including but not limited to wetland and stream delineations, endangered species surveys, environmental inspections, and compliance monitoring.
• Data collection using handheld GPS.
• Assist with the preparation of permit applications and associated environmental reports.
• Assist with transmission line siting investigations and siting documentation.
• Must be flexible; travel will be expected as part of this position.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• BS/MS degree in Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• 0-2 years of experience conducting environmental field surveys in OH, PA, WV, or surrounding states; electric transmission experience a plus.
• Knowledge of/experience with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (1987) and Regional Supplements preferred. Wetland delineation training is strongly preferred.
• Ability to identify upland and wetland vegetation a plus;
• Experience utilizing handheld GPS a plus
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and technical writing ability.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications; ArcGIS experience a plus.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Must be able to travel, including overnight trips.
• A valid Driver’s License is required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to hike moderate distances through rugged unimproved terrain, utility rights‑of‑way, in remote areas, etc.
• Ability to hear and visualize potential hazards during fieldwork or site visit situations.

General Characteristics

• Begins to acquire basic skills; follows procedures; learns record keeping protocols general topographic and arial photograph reading experience, learns technical literature basics, available for frequent travel and field work.

Minimum Years of Experience

• 0 to 1 Years of Experience

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Sciences or similar field of study

Certification/Licensure

• Driver’s License required

Technical Responsibilities

• Introduction to ecological field data collection, wetland delineations, basic regulatory agency applications, gains knowledge of regulatory requirements, and other duties as required; receives technical training for career enhancement.

Project and Task Management

• Responsible for personal task management and adherence to deadlines and scope

Management Responsibility

• Close supervision on all work assignments.
• No managerial responsibilities at this level.

Communication Skills

• Possesses basic oral and written communication skills. Identifies and acknowledges principles of teamwork and leadership.
• Interacts primarily with internal project team members.

Benefits To Working at GAI Include

Competitive Pay & Recognition

• Market‑based, competitive compensation
• Performance‑driven recognition and development bonuses
• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Company‑paid short‑term and long‑term disability
• Company‑paid life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources
• Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays
• An additional floating holiday—use it for what matters to you
• Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave
• 401(k) with company match
• Support and rewards for professional development and certifications

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.