Private Lands Engineer - IRIS (Kentucky)

University of Georgia; Georgia; On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Private Lands Engineer in Georgia to support the implementation of conservation projects. This role involves leading the design of engineering projects on private lands, conducting field surveys, and providing oversight during construction.

Applicants should have at least a Bachelor's degree in a related field, extensive experience in hydrologic modeling, and be a licensed Professional Engineer. The position offers a collaborative environment and involves frequent fieldwork and assessments.

Qualifications

• 5 years of professional experience in a related field.
• Experience with hydrologic and hydraulic computer models.
• Ability to lead project permitting and work with NRCS.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of conservation engineering projects.
• Conduct fieldwork including topographic and channel surveys.
• Oversee technical aspects during construction.

Skills

Hydrologic and hydraulic modeling

Project permitting

Leadership in multi-faced projects

Aquatic ecology knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Licensed Professional Engineer (PE)

Tools

AutoDesk Civil 3D

HEC-RAS

HEC-HMS

SWMM

Rivermorph

Job description

Private Lands Engineer – IRIS (Kentucky)

Posting Number: S15260P | Working Title: Private Lands Engineer – IRIS (Kentucky) | Department: ENGR-Resilient Infrastructure Systems | Employment Type: Employee | Salary: $80,000‑$90,000 (based on experience/credentials) | Work Schedule: Full time, 40 hours per week | Location: Kentucky (Elizabethtown area; duties remotely, at NRCS field office, and at project sites).

Position Summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Private Lands Engineer (Water Resources) to support implementation of the Working Lands for Wildlife Aquatics Connectivity Framework. This grant‑funded Staff position will serve as the key implementation lead and primary point of contact for the Regional WLFW Southern Waters Framework in Kentucky, developing and implementing multi‑agency and NRCS workshops, and coordinating with Kentucky NRCS state leadership.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 5 years of professional experience.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Kentucky or sufficient experience and education to obtain licensure.

Preferred Qualifications

• Stream Restoration Certification, equivalent to Wildland Hydrology Level III or higher.
• Experience with hydrologic and hydraulic computer models using HEC‑RAS, HEC‑HMS, SWMM, and Rivermorph software.
• Experience leading the development and application of hydrologic and hydraulic models.
• Experience taking lead/ownership of project permitting and working with NRCS planning.
• Proficient knowledge of aquatic ecology and integrating engineering principles with aquatic resources.
• Skill in leadership roles on large multi‑faced projects.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Design and Project Development (45%)

• Lead the design of conservation engineering projects on private lands in coordination with NRCS field offices, including engineering analyses (hydrologic and hydraulic modeling), development of design plans and specifications, and production of construction‑ready documents using AutoDesk Civil 3D, HEC‑RAS, and other software.
• Oversee the integration of engineering designs into NRCS conservation planning processes; coordinate with planners, biologists, and landowners to evaluate alternatives, ensuring compliance with NRCS standards.

Field Surveys, Data Collection, and Site Assessment (25%)

• Lead and conduct fieldwork, including topographic and channel surveys using Total Station or similar equipment; collect site data (channel geometry, flow characteristics, substrate conditions) and document existing conditions to inform design.
• Provide high‑level coordination of project design, implementation, and evaluation.

Construction Support and Implementation Oversight (15%)

• Oversee and provide technical oversight during construction, including layout and staking, troubleshooting field conditions, and verifying installation quality.
• Act as regional lead with project stakeholders, contractors, and NRCS staff to ensure successful project delivery.

Technical Assistance, Coordination, and Program Oversight (15%)

• Provide technical expertise and coordination support to NRCS staff, interdisciplinary team members, and project partners.
• Contribute engineering expertise to conservation planning discussions, lead practice selection and feasibility evaluations, and oversee program delivery across priority watersheds.

Physical Demands

• Standard for an office environment.
• Frequent travel regionally; requires driving to project sites.
• Outdoor work in variable terrain and weather conditions, including moderate hiking.
• Occasional evening and weekend work to accommodate private landowner schedules.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).