Lead Wetland Field Ecologist- Full Time - IN

Merjent, Inc.; Indianapolis (IN); Hybrid; USD 37,195 - 55,104; Full time

Job summary

Merjent, Inc. is seeking Wetland Field Ecologists in Indianapolis, IN, to conduct wetland and ecological surveys supporting utility and development projects. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Biology or a related field, with experience in wetland delineation and team leadership. Job involves significant travel and fieldwork in various conditions.

This full-time role offers a competitive hourly rate between $27 and $40 based on experience, plus benefits. Strong communication skills and proficiency with Trimble and ESRI products are required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience conducting wetland delineations.
• At least 1 year experience leading wetland delineation teams.
• Familiarity with federal and state wetland regulations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct wetland delineations according to federal guidelines.
• Analyze geospatial data and prepare technical reports.
• Coordinate field expectations with project teams.

Skills

Wetland delineations

Technical communication

MS Office applications

Geospatial data analysis

Fieldwork in adverse conditions

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field

Tools

Trimble

ESRI products

Job description

Position Summary

Merjent, Inc. (Merjent) is seeking highly motivated and experienced Wetland Field Ecologists to lead, manage, train, and mentor multiple crews in conducting wetland and other ecological surveys in support of utility, transportation, and development projects primarily in Indianapolis, with the potential to work throughout the U.S. Primary duties include wetland and stream delineations with additional opportunities to perform threatened and endangered species surveys, functional assessments, habitat assessments, vegetation surveys, and wildlife surveys, in addition to completing associated survey reporting work.

The work environment will consist of both urban and remote field settings, which may include work in adverse weather conditions, and, in some instances, irregular and/or steep terrain. Approximately 80-90% travel is anticipated during the field season, as well as extended (10+ hour) days and/or more than 5-day work weeks. Overtime pay will apply for hours worked in excess of 40 hours per week.

These are full-time, benefits-eligible opportunities with an anticipated base wage between $27 and $40 per hour depending on qualifications and experience. Ideal candidates for this position will reside in or near Indianapolis, IN and be familiar with federal and state regulatory agencies and their required protocols. Work schedule is flexible and focused on meeting project and project team needs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct wetland delineations according to the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineations Manual and applicable regional supplements.
• Collect, record, manage, and analyze geospatial data using Trimble and ESRI products.
• Prepare technical reports and memos, and other documents for project planning and permitting purposes.
• Coordinate with project teams and permitting leads to determine and verify field expectations and data collection requirements.
• Perform habitat assessments, functional assessments, vegetation surveys, wildlife surveys, and species‑specific surveys (if qualified).
• Apply situational awareness to mitigate in‑field risks and ensure compliance with industry standards and client‑specific safety requirements.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Biology, Ecology, Soil Science, Hydrology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or related degree.
• Minimum 3 years of experience conducting wetland delineations with at least 1 year experience leading wetland delineation teams.
• Knowledge of federal and state wetland regulations.
• Experience with USACE Atypical and Problem Wetland Areas methodology is preferred.
• Familiarity using Trimble and ESRI products.
• Midwest field work experience.
• Excellent oral and written technical communication and organizational skills, and ability to strategize on multiple concurrent projects of varying size and complexity.
• Competency in general MS Office applications (Word, Excel) required.
• Ability to conduct field work for 10+ hours per day, sometimes in adverse conditions carrying equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work weekends, multiple week shifts away from home and regularly work more than 40 hours per week.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record and able to pass a pre‑employment drug screen.

E‑Verify

Merjent, Inc. participates with the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) E‑Verify program. We will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Merjent, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We are pleased to consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected factors. Disability‑related accommodations during the application process are available upon request.