Ecologist III

Chicago, Illinois, United States;
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States

At RES, we’re looking for purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about restoration and sustainability, and who want their work to make a lasting environmental impact. Our team members go above and beyond, bringing initiative, integrity, and a strong work ethic to every project. Collaboration is key—we thrive on teamwork, open communication, and diverse perspectives. In a field that constantly changes, we value those who are resilient, adaptable, and resourceful in the face of challenges.

If you’re intellectually curious, eager to learn, and ready to help restore ecosystems and protect natural resources, you’ll find your place here.

RES is accepting applications for an Ecologist with 5+ years of experience for our Chicago, IL or Southern Wisconsin offices. The Ecologist will need knowledge and experience in a wide range of ecological disciplines such as botany, soils, wetlands and water, wildlife biology, and restoration, as well as the regulatory environment of mitigation projects. This position will support our clients and operations teams with knowledgeable ecological consulting and high-quality project delivery across a variety of ecosystem restoration and mitigation.

You will be planning, performing, and sometimes supervising field assessments, including:

• Wetland delineations
• Stream assessments
• Feasibility assessments of potential restoration projects
• Endangered species and habitat surveys

• Prepare ecological studies and scientific reports, restoration plans, and natural resources assessment documents.
• Conduct ecological field assessments throughout the Midwest, such as vegetation monitoring and species/habitat surveys.
• Understand state and federal environmental regulations and permitting processes related to mitigation, specifically CWA Sections 404 and 401 and threatened and endangered species laws.
• Participate in company-wide business development activities, including preparing proposals for new work.
• Develop new opportunities for the local office by connecting with clients and partners.
• Establish and promote excellent working relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, and conservation groups.
• Manage ecological project tasks, personnel, equipment, and other resources.
• Coordinate and collaborate with project stakeholders, including site managers and planners.
• Participate in creative problem solving and improve processes for data gathering, analysis, and project management.
• Maintain accurate records of time and expenses, prepare invoices, and perform other administrative requirements as needed.

• Bachelor’s Degree in ecology or related field, such as wetland science, botany, wildlife biology, and 5‑7 years of experience in ecological practice (required).
• Advanced knowledge of local and regional flora, fauna, and ecological systems, with demonstrated identification skills.
• Experience with GPS units, ArcGIS, and other ESRI field data collection software.
• Thorough understanding of restoration ecology theory, principles, and practices.
• Experience with state and federal environmental regulations and permitting processes, specifically CWA Sections 404/401 and endangered species programs.
• Demonstrated ability to perform professional ecological work, such as independent studies and data analysis.

• Master’s Degree in ecology or related field and 3‑5 years of professional experience (preferred).
• Professional certifications such as PWS, CWB, CERP, or regional survey licenses.
• Active participation in professional associations, including leadership roles.
• Experience mentoring junior staff or training field teams on technical methods.

$68,800 - $84,000 USD

Res is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.