Wetland Scientist (PWS)

Pace; Kirkland (WA); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

401(k) with up to 3.5% company match

Medical, dental, vision benefits

Paid time off and wellness programs

Short‑ and long‑term disability insurance

Paid parental leave

Job summary

Pace, based in Kirkland, WA, is seeking an Ecologist/Wetland Scientist to join their Environmental team, focusing on wetland science and project management. This full-time role offers a hybrid work model, requiring fieldwork and the management of complex environmental projects. Ideal candidates will possess a relevant degree and 7-10 years of experience in environmental consulting.

The salary range for this position is between $95,000 and $135,000 annually, and benefits include medical, dental, and flexible scheduling.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7–10 years of professional experience in wetland science.
• In‑depth knowledge of federal and state wetland regulations, including Clean Water Act Section 404/401 permitting.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex environmental projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead critical area and wetland delineations.
• Manage all phases of environmental projects including proposal and budgeting.
• Prepare and review high-quality technical documents.

Skills

Wetland delineation

Environmental consulting

Technical writing

GIS mapping

Project management

Federal and state wetland regulations

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources

Tools

GIS

GPS field tools

Job description

Overview

Verdantas is a Pacific Northwest engineering firm offering civil, structural, planning, surveying, construction management and environmental services. We are seeking an Ecologist/Wetland Scientist for our growing Environmental team in Kirkland, WA. The position is full‑time, exempt, and requires travel for fieldwork.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee critical area and wetland delineations in accordance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) guidelines and regional supplements.
• Manage all phases of environmental projects, including proposal development, budgeting, fieldwork, regulatory coordination, reporting, and client communication.
• Prepare and review high‑quality technical documents such as wetland delineation reports, critical area reports, jurisdictional determinations, mitigation plans, HPA, and Section 404/401 permit applications.
• Serve as a primary liaison with federal, state, and local agencies on environmental permitting and compliance matters.
• Guide the development and implementation of wetland restoration, mitigation, and monitoring plans.
• Supervise, mentor, and provide technical guidance to junior and mid‑level staff.
• Utilize GIS and data management tools to support project planning and analysis.
• Ensure all project work meets regulatory requirements, internal standards, and client expectations.
• Stay current on evolving environmental regulations, guidance, and best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of professional experience in wetland science, environmental consulting, or natural resource management.
• In‑depth knowledge of federal and state wetland regulations, including Clean Water Act Section 404/401 permitting.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex environmental projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in conducting wetland delineations, functional assessments, and habitat evaluations.
• Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills; ability to present complex concepts clearly to clients and regulators.
• Experience completing complex mitigation and bank‑use plans.
• Proficient in GIS mapping, GPS field tools, and environmental data analysis.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel for fieldwork and client meetings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) certification or eligibility.
• Experience in client development, proposal writing, and strategic project planning.
• Familiarity with NEPA, ESA, and other environmental compliance frameworks.
• Expertise in wetland mitigation banking, ecosystem restoration, or long‑term monitoring programs.
• Experience in regulatory negotiation and agency coordination.
• Regional experience in the Pacific Northwest.

Benefits Snapshot

• Hybrid work model & flexible scheduling
• 401(k) with up to 3.5% company match
• Medical, dental, vision, HSA/FSA
• Paid time off, holidays, and wellness programs
• Short‑ and long‑term disability, life, and AD&D insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Culture that supports belonging, equity, and inclusion

EEO Statement

PACE is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply. Verdantas is an Equal Employment Opportunity provider; race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status is not a factor in hiring decisions.

Salary

$95,000 to $135,000 (USD) annually