Field Ecologist - Midwest

Position Summary

Merjent, Inc. is seeking experienced and highly motivated Field Ecologists to support a wide range of ecological projects throughout the Midwest, with opportunities for nationwide work based on qualifications. Projects include ecological restoration and natural area assessments as well as surveys supporting infrastructure development. Field responsibilities include conducting wetland and stream delineations, threatened and endangered species habitat assessments and surveys, functional assessments, and botanical and wildlife surveys.

Office responsibilities include preparing technical reports, participating in training to refine skills, and supporting project planning. Fieldwork will span a range of ecological landscapes from sprawling agricultural plains to remote boreal forests and countless environments in between. Field work will involve working in adverse weather conditions and uneven or steep terrain. Significant travel is expected during the field season, and candidates should anticipate 10+ hour days and occasional workweeks exceeding five days;

overtime at time‑and‑a‑half is paid for hours worked beyond 40 per week. This is a full‑time, benefits‑eligible position starting at $27 per hour, or higher, depending on qualifications and experience. Ideal candidates reside in the Midwest, have experience leading field surveys, and are familiar with federal and state regulatory agency protocols.

Merjent is a medium‑sized consulting and engineering company dedicated to creating an environment where both people and projects succeed. Merjent has staff located across the United States who may choose a remote, in‑office, or hybrid work arrangement. All full‑time employees begin their tenure at Merjent with 4 weeks of paid vacation regardless of seniority. In addition, employees receive 10 paid holidays and generous benefits and compensation packages.

Merjent supports annual career‑related training for employees to become or continue as leaders in their field of expertise. Merjent facilitates organic growth within the company and encourages employees to bring their ideas forward to grow existing and create new service lines within and beyond the currently served sectors of energy, mining, transportation, manufacturing and construction, land development industries, and government.

Merjent also invests in its company culture by supporting travel for remote employees to attend in‑person team meetings and all‑staff events. The Merjent difference is real – it’s based on a commitment to our values, which guides us in how we work with clients and each other. Our commitment to quality and professional integrity encompasses everything we do. We are proud of our reputation for delivering quality work and building long‑term, trusting relationships with our clients and with regulatory agencies.

• Conduct wetland delineations according to the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineations Manual and applicable regional supplements.
• Collect, record, manage, and analyze geospatial data using Trimble and ESRI products.
• Prepare technical reports and memos, and other documents for project planning and permitting purposes.
• Coordinate with project teams and permitting leads to determine and verify field expectations and data collection requirements.
• Perform habitat assessments, functional assessments, vegetation surveys, wildlife surveys, and species‑specific surveys (if qualified).
• Apply situational awareness to mitigate in‑field risks and ensure compliance with industry standards and client‑specific safety requirements.

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Biology, Ecology, Soil Science, Hydrology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or related degree.
• Minimum 3 years of experience conducting ecological surveys with at least 1 year of experience leading surveys.
• Knowledge of federal and state wetland regulations.
• Experience with USACE Atypical and Problem Wetland Areas methodology is preferred.
• Familiarity using Trimble and ESRI products.
• Midwest field work experience.
• Excellent oral and written technical communication and organizational skills,…