Wetland Scientist; PWS

Ecologist / Wetland Scientist

Full-time Exempt Professional

Kirkland, WA, US

PACE Engineers, A Verdantas Company is a Pacific Northwest engineering firm providing civil and structural engineering, planning, surveying, construction management and environmental services from offices in Washington and Oregon.

We are currently seeking an Ecologist / Wetland Scientist for our growing Environmental team.

This role is results‑driven and aligned with the organization’s strategic goals, requiring initiative, a competitive mindset, and the ability to stay focused during change. It demands quick decision‑making, innovation, and a strong sense of urgency. The ideal candidate is confident, self‑assured, and capable of inspiring others while maintaining a firm, goal‑oriented leadership style. Excellent communication, adaptability, and delegation skills are essential, as is the ability to learn quickly and manage multiple priorities.

Ultimately, success in this position is measured by achieving fast, high‑quality results through motivation and accountability, rather than rigid adherence to process.

• Lead and oversee critical area and wetland delineations in accordance with 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 & long‑term disability, life, and AD&D insurance
• Culture that supports belonging, equity, and inclusion

• Flexible Work Environment
• Paid Parental Leave
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid Time Off + Holidays

$95,000 To $135,000 (USD) Annually

PACE is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply.

Verdantas strives to develop new ways to increase diversity awareness within our organization. We recruit and reward our employees based on capability and performance — regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, lifestyle, age, educational background, national origin, religion, or physical ability. For us, it is imperative to build balanced teams from all walks of life and we believe that a diverse workforce is a stronger workforce.

Verdantas is an EOE race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability/vet