Senior Water Resources Engineer, Geomorphologist, or Scientist; Project Manager

Position: Senior Water Resources Engineer, Geomorphologist, or Scientist (Project Manager)
We are Natural Systems Design, a Washington-based environmental services and consulting firm. Founded in 2003, we are an interdisciplinary team with over 50 people with office locations in Seattle, Bellingham, and Port Angeles, Washington and we focus our efforts throughout Washington State. Our company was founded and grown with the intention of being a different kind of professional services and consulting company that prioritizes its people, science, the environment, and collectively making a positive impact.

Position Summary

We are currently seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer, Geomorphologist, or Scientist who has a strong background in managing and delivering multi-objective projects. Successful candidates will have a foundation in fluvial and/or watershed processes and a demonstrated ability to lead projects, manage multidisciplinary teams, and deliver high-quality work on schedule and within budget.

This role blends technical leadership with project management responsibility, including scope, schedule, budget, team coordination, and client relationship management. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable leading technical analyses and designs as they are driving projects forward and ensuring successful delivery.

This position plays a key role in advancing our mission to deliver innovative, science-driven restoration and resilience solutions across Washington State.

Position Location:

(Seattle, Bellingham, or Port Angeles, Washington; and/or Remote)

We are currently using a hybrid model of in-office and remote work. For this position, our preferred candidate is located near one of our three office locations. However, the days you come into the office and thedays you work from home are always up to you. A fully remoteoptionmay be considered for qualified candidates withdemonstratedprofessional experience who currentlyresidein or are willing torelocateto Washington State.

Key Responsibilities

Design, Analysis & Technical Leadership

• Lead technical analysis, design, and/or scientific evaluation for river, floodplain, and wetland restoration projects

• Apply expertise in geomorphology, hydraulics, hydrology, sediment transport, and/or restoration science

• Develop and oversee design plans, modeling efforts, calculations, specifications, and cost estimates

• Ensure technical quality and consistency across deliverables

Modeling & Technical Tools

• Lead hydraulic, hydrologic, and/or geomorphic analyses using tools such as HEC-RAS, SRH2D, River Flow-2D, GIS, and related methods

• Oversee development of CAD-based design deliverables (e.g., Civil 3D, Micro Station)

• Integrate field data (survey, LiDAR, geomorphic assessments) into analyses and designs

Project Management

• Develop and manage project scopes, schedules, budgets, and staffing plans

• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and in alignment with NSD QAQC standards

• Proactively manage project risks, scope changes, and internal/external coordination

• Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring consistent performance and delivery

Client & Business Development

• Serve as primary client contact and build strong, trusted relationships

• Lead or support proposal development, including scoping, budgeting, and technical approach

• Identify and pursue new project opportunities aligned with NSD's mission and expertise

• Represent NSD in client meetings, workshops, and industry settings

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Lead multidisciplinary project teams across engineering, geomorphology, GIS, and ecology

• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and QA/QC review for junior and mid-level staff

• Contribute to staff development and continuous improvement of team workflows

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• BS in Civil/Environmental Engineering, Geomorphology, Earth Science, or related field

• MS or PhD preferred

Experience

• 10+ years of relevant experience in water resources, restoration, or related fields

• Demonstrated experience serving as a Project Manager, including managing budgets, schedules, and client relationships

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and complex projects

Technical Proficiency

• Experience with hydraulic, hydrologic, and/or geomorphic analysis tools (e.g.,…