Private Lands Engineer - IRIS (N. Carolina)

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 to support aquatic connectivity efforts, focusing on conservation engineering projects in North Carolina. Key responsibilities include project design, field surveys, and oversight during construction.

This full-time position offers a salary range of $80,000–$90,000 based on experience. Candidates must have relevant engineering qualifications and are expected to support various NRCS programs while working in diverse outdoor conditions.

Qualifications

• 5 years of professional experience.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in North Carolina preferred.
• Experience with hydrologic and hydraulic modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of conservation engineering projects.
• Conduct field surveys and data collection.
• Provide technical oversight during construction.

Skills

Stream Restoration Certification

Hydrologic and hydraulic computer models

Rivermorph software

Aquatic ecology knowledge

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Tools

AutoDesk Civil 3D

Total Station

Job description

Private Lands Engineer — IRIS (N. Carolina)

Position Summary

The University of Georgia (UGA) is seeking a Private Lands Engineer (Water Resources) to support implementation of the Working Lands for Wildlife Aquatics Connectivity Framework. The position will serve as key implementation lead and primary contact for the Regional WLFW Southern Waters Framework in North Carolina, develop and implement multi‑agency NRCS workshops, engage in regional coordination, and provide engineering expertise to North Carolina NRCS state leadership.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 5 years of professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in North Carolina or sufficient experience to obtain licensure.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Stream Restoration Certification, equivalent to Wildland Hydrology Level III or higher.
• Experience with hydrologic and hydraulic computer models (HEC‑RAS, HEC‑HMS, SWMM).
• Experience with Rivermorph software and project permitting.
• Proficient knowledge of aquatic ecology and ability to integrate engineering principles with aquatic resources.
• Leadership on large, multi‑faced projects.

Physical Demands

• Standard office environment.
• Regional travel to project sites and field offices.
• Outdoor work in variable terrain and weather conditions.
• Frequent moderate hiking in all seasons.
• Occasional evenings and weekends as needed.

Duties & Responsibilities

Engineering Design and Project Development – 45 %

• Lead design of conservation engineering projects on private lands in coordination with NRCS field offices.
• Oversee engineering analyses (hydrologic/hydraulic modeling), develop design plans and specifications, and produce construction‑ready documents using AutoDesk Civil 3D and related software.
• Manage projects including streambank stabilization, erosion control, livestock and vehicular stream crossings, culvert replacement for aquatic organism passage, and dam removal.
• Integrate designs into NRCS conservation planning processes; coordinate with planners, biologists, and landowners to evaluate alternatives and ensure compliance with NRCS standards.

Field Surveys, Data Collection & Site Assessment – 25 %

• Lead and conduct fieldwork, coordinating project design, implementation, and evaluation.
• Perform topographic and channel surveys using Total Station or similar equipment; collect site data (geometry, flow, substrate) and document existing conditions.
• Provide leadership for field responsibilities requiring frequent travel and direct interaction with landowners and NRCS staff.

Construction Support and Implementation Oversight – 15 %

• Lead project implementation by providing technical oversight during construction; conduct layout, staking; troubleshoot field conditions; verify installation per design intent and NRCS requirements.
• Serve as regional lead, overseeing project stakeholders, contractors, and NRCS staff to ensure successful project delivery.

Technical Assistance, Coordination & Program Oversight – 15 %

• Provide technical expertise and coordination support to NRCS staff, interdisciplinary team members, and project partners.
• Lead practice selection, feasibility evaluations, and communication with landowners.
• Collaborate on shared processes with NRCS personnel and partners, ensuring alignment with program priorities and compliance with project tracking and documentation.

Benefits

Full‑time position, 40 hours per week. Salary $80,000‑$90,000 based on experience. Position is grant‑funded; continuation of employment contingent upon continued funding.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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, veteran status, or other protected status.

Contact

Virginia Bacon‑Talati
Email: [e-mail]