Private Lands Engineer - IRIS (Virginia)

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is hiring a Private Lands Engineer (Water Resources) to support conservation projects focusing on aquatic connectivity in Virginia. This role will lead the design of engineering projects, ensuring compliance and collaboration with multi-agency teams.

Key responsibilities include overseeing field surveys, technical oversight during construction, and providing engineering expertise in conservation planning. Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree along with relevant certifications and professional experience.

Qualifications

• 5 years of professional experience in engineering or related field.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Virginia or path to licensure.
• Stream restoration certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of conservation engineering projects on private lands.
• Conduct fieldwork and oversee data collection.
• Provide technical oversight during construction.

Skills

Leadership skills

Hydrologic modeling

Hydraulic modeling

AutoDesk Civil 3D

HEC-RAS

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Tools

HEC-HMS

SWMM

Rivermorph

Job description

Position Summary

The University of Georgia (UGA) is seeking a Private Lands Engineer (Water Resources) to support the Working Lands for Wildlife Aquatics Connectivity Framework in Virginia. The role serves as a key implementation lead and primary contact for the regional NRCS Southern Waters Framework, coordiing multi‑agency workshops, and providing engineering expertise to state NRCS leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent with 5 years of professional experience.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Virginia or demonstrable path to licensure.
• Stream restoration certification (Wildland Hydrology Level III or higher) preferred.
• Experience leading development and application of hydrologic and hydraulic models (HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, SWMM).
• Familiarity with Rivermorph, project permitting, and aquatic ecology.
• Strong leadership skills on large, multi‑faceted projects.

Responsibilities

Engineering Design and Project Development (45%)

• Lead design of conservation engineering projects on private lands, including hydrologic & hydraulic modeling, design plans, and construction documents using AutoDesk Civil 3D and HEC-RAS.
• Oversee integration of engineering designs into NRCS conservation planning, coordinating with planners, biologists, and landowners.
• Lead production of design documents and oversee construction, ensuring compliance with NRCS standards.

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

• Lead and conduct fieldwork, overseeing topographic and channel surveys, collecting site data, and documenting existing conditions.
• Coordinate field responsibilities, travel frequently, and interact with landowners and NRCS staff.

Construction Support and Implementation Oversight (15%)

• Provide technical oversight during construction, including layout, staking, troubleshooting, and verification of practices.
• Serve as regional lead to ensure successful project delivery and stakeholder collaboration.

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

• Offer engineering expertise in conservation planning, practice selection, and feasibility evaluations.
• Collaborate with NRCS personnel and partners to align with program priorities and maintain documentation.

EEO Statement

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. Persons needing accommodations are encouraged to contact Central HR at [e-mail].