Senior Environmental Scientist - NPDES Permitting (Multiple Locations)

Burns & McDonnell; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a Senior Environmental Scientist to lead NPDES permitting and water quality studies. This role is crucial in overseeing environmental assessments and compliance for diverse projects, including petrochemical plants and renewable energy facilities. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in environmental consulting, with a deep understanding of the Clean Water Act and NPDES regulations. Join a dynamic team committed to safety and client satisfaction, where your expertise will shape the future of environmental services and contribute to meaningful projects that impact communities positively.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in environmental consulting, especially NPDES permitting.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state water quality regulations.
• Proficient in analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead NPDES permit application development and compliance strategies.
• Conduct environmental assessments and site evaluations.
• Mentor junior staff and develop training materials.

Skills

NPDES permitting

Environmental assessments

Water quality studies

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Bachelor's degree in Toxicology

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

CORMIX

QUAL2K

WASP

Job description

Senior Environmental Scientist - NPDES Permitting (Multiple Locations)

Join Burns & McDonnell as a Senior Environmental Scientist - NPDES Permitting (Multiple Locations).

This role involves leading, overseeing, and conducting NPDES permitting, water quality studies, environmental assessments, and compliance efforts for projects such as petrochemical plants, power generation, renewable fuels, industrial sites, and water treatment facilities. A strong understanding of the Clean Water Act, NPDES regulations, and agency processes in Texas is required. Knowledge of other Gulf Coast regions is a plus. The position supports the growth of our Environmental Services Global Practice, guided by our core values of safety, client satisfaction, commitment, dedication, integrity, and outstanding service.

Additional responsibilities include planning and coordinating water quality project components from conception to completion, including site-specific limit studies and antidegradation analyses. Candidates will assist in proposal development, contract negotiations, project planning, and mentoring junior staff. Tasks include scope development, budgeting, schedule management, client and peer communication, and achieving project objectives.

Key Tasks

• Develop strategies and solutions using environmental regulatory knowledge to address technical and regulatory issues.
• Evaluate wastewater and stormwater discharges early in project development for permitting and compliance strategies.
• Conduct due diligence, regulatory audits, and site evaluations for environmental challenges.
• Lead NPDES permit application development, including analyses like reasonable potential, antidegradation, 316(b), ELG, mixing zone, and water quality modeling (e.g., CORMIX, QUAL2K, WASP).
• Monitor regulatory developments and communicate impacts to staff and clients.
• Develop and review Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) and SPCC Plans; perform compliance inspections.
• Build and maintain relationships with regulatory agencies and clients.
• Prepare training materials and conduct training for personnel and clients.
• Mentor junior staff and represent the company at trade conferences.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, Toxicology, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of professional experience; 12+ preferred.
• Consulting experience is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state water quality regulations, especially Section 402 of the Clean Water Act.
• Experience with NPDES permit applications.
• Strong understanding of wastewater and stormwater systems.
• Analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Attention to detail and adaptability.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet company driving standards.

This position is open until filled, with a minimum posting duration of 72 hours. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer supporting minorities, females, disabled individuals, and veterans.