Environmental Scientist/Ecologist (Project Lead) - Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, or Missouri

Stantec; Tulsa (OK); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Ecologist / Environmental Project Manager to lead critical environmental projects. In this dynamic role, you will oversee biological field surveys, manage project aspects, and prepare essential documentation under NEPA regulations. The position offers a collaborative work environment where your expertise will impact diverse projects across multiple states. Ideal for someone passionate about environmental stewardship, this opportunity allows for growth and the chance to work with top talents in the field. Join a team that values creativity and hard work while making a difference in the communities we serve.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in environmental planning and permitting.
• Strong understanding of NEPA and environmental compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead biological field surveys and prepare environmental documents.
• Manage project aspects including client contact and budget control.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to staff.

Skills

Environmental impact analysis

NEPA regulations

Project management

Communication skills

Client relationship management

Education

B.S. Degree in Natural Resources

Master’s Degree (preferred)

Job description

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our Stantec experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and a vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around the globe and are committed to fostering an inclusive community of diverse talents, backgrounds, and expertise. We’re a place to apply your passion and collaborate with top environmental talents on work that’s critical to our clients and the communities they support. Join a team that has a casual work atmosphere with a company that values creativity and hard work and is involved in diverse, world-class projects.

Your Opportunity

Stantec is seeking a qualified, self-motivated, and entrepreneurial Senior Ecologist / Environmental Project Manager to join our team. In this role, you will provide leadership in biological field surveys, report preparation, environmental regulatory and project permitting efforts. Within 2 years, you will be expected to provide project management, lead, mentor staff, and support business development opportunities. You will take the lead in preparing environmental documents pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Section 404 Permitting, working with environmental staff and engineering clients in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Missouri, and the Southeast. This position is ideal for a proven deputy project management professional seeking career growth in a dynamic team environment. It can be based out of Arkansas, Oklahoma, or Louisiana and will work in a hybrid or remote capacity depending on proximity to a Stantec office. Candidates in Arkansas are encouraged to apply via the Oklahoma job link.

Your Key Responsibilities

1. Assist with the NEPA planning process and oversee all project aspects, including client contact, budget control, invoicing, scheduling, personnel planning, technical approach, and subcontractor involvement.
2. Manage and lead field teams during wetland delineation, listed species habitat, and flora/fauna presence/absence surveys.
3. Coordinate with regulatory/resource agencies and local governments.
4. Manage technical studies and ecological resource teams conducting assessments and natural resource surveys.
5. Assist in preparing NEPA documentation such as environmental impact statements (EISs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), and Categorical Exclusions (CEs).
6. Provide quality assurance and quality control for all final products to ensure technical accuracy and regulatory compliance.
7. Maintain current client relationships and develop new ones.
8. Enhance professional profile externally through memberships in professional organizations and expanding client contacts.
9. Participate in Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines in all work activities.
10. Provide technical guidance and mentorship to developing staff.

Your Capabilities and Credentials

1. Thorough understanding of technical environmental impact analysis methods and knowledge of NEPA and related environmental regulations (Section 401, 402, and 404 of the Clean Water Act).
2. Strong knowledge of environmental compliance requirements related to infrastructure projects in transportation, renewable energy, and oil/gas/energy sectors.
3. Working knowledge of agencies including BIA, BLM, USACE, USFWS, State DNR/DEP/DEQ/DOT, FERC, FHWA, FAA.
4. Demonstrated commitment to QA/QC practices.
5. Excellent communication skills, with experience in public hearings and facilitating meetings with regulatory/resource agencies.
6. Experience or willingness to manage multiple projects and motivate teams to achieve goals.
7. Ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders, clients, and team members.
8. Leadership in continuous technical improvement.
9. Flexibility to travel as needed for project and fieldwork.
10. Valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Education and Experience

1. B.S. Degree in Natural Resources, Planning, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field from an accredited university; Master’s preferred.
2. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in environmental planning, assessment, and permitting.

Typical work environment includes computer-based tasks and long periods of sedentary activity. Fieldwork may involve exposure to various weather conditions, requiring the ability to lift and move equipment. Willingness to travel for project and business development opportunities.

This description is not exhaustive and duties may change as needed.

Stantec offers a collaborative environment where talents are valued, exciting work is done, and impactful contributions are made. Join us to redefine your personal best.