Environmental Scientist

aptim; Houma (LA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

APTIM supports coastal wetlands monitoring in Louisiana, conducting ecological surveys and water quality sampling as part of CRMS and SWAMP programs. This role involves fieldwork on boats, data collection, and coordination with a small team to assess restoration outcomes and protect coastal landscapes.

The position requires a BS in Environmental Science, field experience, a valid driver's license, and readiness for physically demanding outdoor work in heat and insects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science or related field.
• Relevant environmental field experience in ecological monitoring or data collection.
• Valid driver’s license and experience trailering/operating watercraft.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lift 30–50 pounds and work in demanding environments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct ecological monitoring activities including vegetation surveys and water quality sampling.
• Operate boats and field equipment following safety procedures.
• Travel to remote Louisiana wetlands and coastal sites for data collection.
• Process, review, and QC data using established protocols and software tools.
• Prepare equipment and logistics for upcoming field deployments.
• Collaborate within a small multidisciplinary team in a safety-focused environment.

Skills

Ecological monitoring

Field data collection

Watercraft operation

Safety procedures

Education

BS in Environmental Science

Job description

This role will perform a variety of scientific work and operate various watercraft types for the Coastwide Reference Monitoring System (CRMS) and System-Wide Assessment and Monitoring Program (SWAMP water quality) programs. Wetland restoration efforts conducted in Louisiana require monitoring the effectiveness of individual projects as well as monitoring the cumulative effects of all projects in restoring, creating, enhancing, and protecting the coastal landscape. CRMS is a multiple reference approach that uses aspects of hydrogeomorphic functional assessments and probabilistic sampling. This approach includes a suite of sites that encompass the range of ecological conditions for each stratum, with projects placed on a continuum of conditions found for that stratum. This position requires one to be located in Louisiana. No relocation provided.

Key Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

Field Activities (60% of the time)

• Conduct ecological monitoring activities, including vegetation surveys, hydrographic measurements, soil accretion monitoring, and water quality sampling.
• Support scientific field data collection efforts in southern Louisiana wetlands, including swamp, freshwater, intermediate, and brackish marsh environments.
• Operate boats, towing vehicles, and field equipment following company safety procedures and training requirements (training available).
• Travel to remote monitoring locations, including coastal waterways and open-water environments.
• Assist with routine maintenance and operational readiness of vessels, trailers, trucks, and scientific instrumentation.
• Perform light construction, operations, and maintenance (O&M) activities as needed.
• Follow all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and procedures.

Office Work (40% of the time)

• Process, review, and quality-check scientific data using established protocols and standard software tools.
• Prepare equipment, supplies, and logistics for upcoming field deployments.
• Collaborate within a small, multidisciplinary team and across organizational levels in a cooperative, safety-focused environment.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science or related Science degree.
• Relevant environmental field experience, including ecological monitoring, natural resources, or environmental data collection.
• Must have a valid driver's license and experience trailering and operating watercraft in coastal or inland environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey technical information.
• Must be able to lift and transport equipment weighing 30–50 pounds individually and heavier items as part of a team.
• Ability and willingness to perform work in physically demanding environments with exposure to heat, cold, insects, and adverse weather conditions.
• Proven ability to work effectively within small field teams while demonstrating high reliability, accountability, and professionalism.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience operating airboats is preferred; training is available for candidates willing to learn.
• Experience working in coastal wetlands and marshes.
• Knowledge of Louisiana wetland vegetation identification, including common tree, shrub, and herbaceous species.

Who we are and what we do:

About APTIM

APTIM enhances the quality of the environment, wellbeing of people, resilience of communities, and opportunity for employees to make a difference, not just a living. A leading professional solutions firm, we specialize in environmental, sustainability, resilience, and infrastructure solutions. Our team of experts provide these integrated solutions for forward-thinking government agencies, commercial and industrial clients, and energy customers. Together, we create sustainable and resilient communities for all.

What you can expect from APTIM:

• Work that is worthy of your time and talent
• Respect and flexibility to live a full life at work and at home
• Dogged determination to deliver for our clients and communities
• A voice in making our company better
• Investment into your personal and professional development

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay range for this position is $23 to $26 per hour. Compensation depends on several factors including: experience, education, key skills, geographic location of the position, client requirements, external market competitiveness, and internal equity among other employees within APTIM.

APTIM is a place where our people make a difference, not just a living.