Environmental Scientist

Hey, Environmental Scientists! Looking for a new and exciting opportunity to work on innovative coastal projects on the GREAT LAKES, and we'll throw in GREAT BENEFITS, too! This is a unique opportunity to join a well-respected and multi-talented team focused on developing waterfront projects along beautiful Lake Erie in Ohio. We're looking for someone who shares a passion for the Great Lakes, ecological restoration, and incorporating habitat features into waterfront infrastructure projects. You must be currently eligible to work in the U.S.

Summary:

In collaboration with Professional Engineers, you will be communicating and interacting with clients, regulatory agencies, the general public, and other professionals in providing integrated solutions to challenging and unique projects. These include nature-based shorelines, shore protection, and projects designed for the beneficial use of dredge material. This unique opportunity to work on waterfront infrastructure projects will offer a platform to gain significant experience in your field. Importantly, you will be working on projects that MAKE A DIFFERENCE to local communities and the environment!

Responsibilities:

1. Provide ecological design for restoration projects on the Great Lakes and tributaries including: assessing reference sites, establishing restoration goals, developing ecotypes and habitat zones, designing coastal habitat, and preparing grading and planting plans.
2. Perform ecological surveys in accordance with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Ecological Manual (ODOT 2014).
3. Perform assessments of Vegetative Quality using the Vegetative Index of Biotic Integrity (VIBI or VIBI-FQ).
4. Perform stream habitat evaluations using the Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index (QHEI) or Headwater Habitat Evaluation Index (HHEI).
5. Prepare Section 404 permit applications for submittal to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and applications for Section 401 Water Quality Certifications for submittal to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Coordinate with regulatory review staff.
6. Assist with project management and interact with clients and stakeholders.
7. Prepare and distribute correspondence, presentations, and reports - both internally and externally.
8. Collaborate with other professionals and departments to gather information for projects.
9. Conduct field work including site inspections and surveys.
10. Prepare and present technical content to clients and the public.

Competencies:

1. Experience with Section 404 and Section 401 permitting.
2. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
3. Excellent organizational and time management skills.
4. Ability to work independently as well as collaborate as part of a team.
5. Commitment to maintain confidentiality and credibility.
6. Flexibility.
7. Proficient in MicroSoft Office.

Your success is our success! We encourage our team to share their knowledge and continually develop their interests and skills.

Education and Experience:

1. Bachelor Degree with a focus on Environmental Science or a related field.
2. 5 to 10 years of relevant professional experience. Experience with Great Lakes projects is preferred.

KS Associates, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, religion, belief or spirituality, age, disability, use of family and medical leave, military status or genetic information.

LEARN, GROW, AND SUCCEED

When you work at KS Associates, you work in a casual yet professional environment in which every employee has an opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. The firm empowers employees through training and technology, believes that hard work deserves recognition, and offers programs that let employees know they are direct contributors to the firm's success.

GENEROUS BENEFITS

KS Associates offers health and dental insurance for most employees and their dependents, a 401k retirement savings plan, life insurance, and a liberal tuition reimbursement plan. We provide flexible spending accounts ("cafeteria plan") for health care and dependent day care, paid time off, and opportunities to participate in professional and technical societies.

WORK HARD, HAVE FUN

Our company-sponsored employee events are geared toward helping employees make lasting friendships. Events have included a summer family event, an annual holiday party, chili cook-offs, a Cleveland Indians Home Opener cookout, and more. Our Rockstar Recognition Program provides opportunities for employees to recognize others for going above and beyond, and rewards them for doing so.