Wetlands Field Scientist — Consulting Associate

ERM; New Orleans (LA); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

ERM seeks an early-career Consulting Associate, Environmental Scientist (Assistant Wetland Delineator) in New Orleans, LA or Houston, TX to support wetland delineations, habitat assessments, and permit processes. You’ll gain hands-on field skills, work with an experienced team, and contribute to projects protecting natural resources.

You will operate in a collaborative ERM Impact Assessment group, performing data collection, OHWM documentation, and environmental analyses while growing technical

Qualifications

• BA/BS or MS in a natural science discipline or the equivalency of 8+ years related experience in lieu of education.
• 0+ years of professional experience
• Coursework or training in wetland delineation using the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual and applicable Regional Supplements
• Familiarity with Army Corps of Engineers Regional Supplements (Arid West and/or Great Plains)
• Ability and willingness to conduct fieldwork up to 75% of the time, outdoors and in variable conditions
• Working knowledge of GPS technologies and map interpretation (e.g., NWI, USGS, aerial imagery)
• Strong commitment to health, safety, and fieldwork best practices
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail
• Ability to prioritize tasks, adapt to changing needs, and work independently with minimal supervision
• Driver's License Required: This position requires a valid driver's license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle due to the nature of job duties, which include frequent travel to various client locations across a large geographical area
• This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Conduct wetland delineations in accordance with the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual and Regional Supplements
• Document ordinary high-water marks (OHWM) and geophysical characteristics of waterbodies
• Perform habitat and environmental assessments
• Complete data collection, GPS data management, and quality review
• Support desktop environmental constraints analysis and permitting processes
• Assist with survey report preparation and permit applications
• Participate in fieldwork safely and in alignment with ERM and client safety standards
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members and subject matter experts
• Communicate effectively with clients and internal stakeholders on environmental science matters
• Deliver work in accordance with scope, schedule, budget, and ERM quality standards
• Support the growth and delivery of ERM's environmental and impact assessment services

Skills

GPS & mapping interpretation

Written & verbal communication

Field safety culture

Independent work ethic

Travel readiness

Education

BA/BS or MS in natural science or 8+ years experience in lieu

Wetland delineation coursework / manuals

Tools

GPS devices

Environmental data management

Job description

ERM seeks an early-career Consulting Associate, Environmental Scientist (Assistant Wetland Delineator) in New Orleans, LA or Houston, TX to support wetland delineations, habitat assessments, and permit processes. You’ll gain hands-on field skills, work with an experienced team, and contribute to projects protecting natural resources.

You will operate in a collaborative ERM Impact Assessment group, performing data collection, OHWM documentation, and environmental analyses while growing technical