Ecological Field Lead

GAI Consultants Inc.; Homestead (Allegheny County); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Paid Maternity/Paternity/Adoption program

Generous Paid Time Off

401(k) company match

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

GAI Consultants Inc. is looking for an Ecological Field Lead to conduct ecological field surveys, including wetland delineations for energy-related projects. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and experience in ecological sciences, with strong preference for certification in wetland delineation. The position demands significant travel and outdoor work under varying conditions, offering competitive salary and comprehensive benefits including a robust PTO policy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or relevant experience in ecological or environmental sciences.
• Experience leading wetland delineations in OH, WV, PA, VA, MD.
• Wetland delineation training or certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological field surveys including wetland and stream delineations.
• Prepare technical reports for energy projects.
• Conduct various ecological studies across the eastern U.S.

Skills

Wetland delineation

Ecological surveys

Environmental inspections

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Biology, or related field

Tools

Technical tools and instruments

Job description

Job Overview

GAI Consultants is seeking an Ecological Field Lead (Assistant Environmental Specialist 2) to conduct wetland delineations and other environmental resources field investigations for electric transmission and other energy-related projects. The successful candidate will work in a challenging, fast-paced, team-oriented environment, utilizing their experience to develop professionally and grow in today's global environment. This position is eligible for GAI's flexible Hybrid workplace selection, in accordance with our Telework Policy.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological field surveys including wetland and stream delineations, endangered species surveys, botanical investigations, environmental inspections and compliance monitoring.
• Work with a team of professionals to conduct a variety of ecological studies and environmental investigations across the eastern U.S.
• Prepare wetland delineation and other technical reports for a range of energy projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or commensurate experience in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Studies, Fish and Wildlife Science, Natural Resources or related field.
• Relevant experience working in the environmental or biological sciences industry.
• Proven expertise with leading wetland delineations in OH, WV, PA, VA, MD and surrounding states. Wetland delineation training and certification (PWS/WPIT) are strongly preferred.
• Experience conducting botanical, avian, mammal, and aquatic surveys is a plus, and you will have the opportunity to lead these efforts as well.

Travel Requirements

• Expectation of 90% daily travel throughout VA, PA, WV, and OH. Overnight stays required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and rugged terrain.
• Exposure to active construction sites.
• Capable of walking, hiking, or standing for extended periods during field and site visits.
• Must be able to lift and carry tools, equipment, technical samples, documents, and other materials weighing up to 40–50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, crouching, and climbing may be required during fieldwork and sample collection.
• Ability to safely operate and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and boots as required by site safety protocols.
• Visual acuity and manual dexterity to handle technical tools, read maps and instruments, observe site conditions, and document findings accurately.
• Comfortable working in remote or isolated locations, sometimes for extended durations.
• Comfortable working in confined spaces and/or at heights, as required by specific project sites.
• May require driving long distances to field sites and operating vehicles on unpaved or uneven roads.

General Characteristics

• Demonstrates progress in acquiring basic skills; follows procedures; learns record-keeping protocols; general topographic and aerial photograph reading experience; available for frequent travel and fieldwork.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, company-paid Long Term Disability, and Short-Term Disability (benefits start within 30 days of hire).
• New paid Maternity/Paternity/Adoption program.
• Generous Paid Time Off and 7 paid holidays.
• 401(k) company match.
• Tuition Reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer

GAI is a committed equal opportunity employer. We are 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.