Lead Environmental Scientist; Ecology

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 seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Environmental Scientist (Ecology) to support complex ecological restoration projects, oversee monitoring and maintenance of conservation and mitigation banks across the West Coast, and manage sites that support federally and state‑listed threatened and endangered species.

This position is based in our Sacramento, CA office, with an expectation of being onsite at least three days per week. The role includes regular travel and occasional overnight stays.

• Lead, train, and mentor field teams in sampling protocols, safety procedures, and data collection.
• Operate and maintain scientific equipment, ensuring accurate and reliable field data.
• Review and interpret technical documentation including SOPs, monitoring plans, maps, and laboratory results.
• Collect, manage, and analyze large datasets, applying rigorous quality control to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Write advanced technical reports with minimal revisions required and mentor junior staff in data analysis and report preparation.
• Evaluate sites to identify regulatory and technical requirements, perform risk analyses, and provide insights that inform project strategies.
• Contribute to project design discussions, sequencing, and the scheduling of field activities.
• Communicate directly with clients, summarizing project needs and providing timely status updates.
• Engage with local and regional professional associations, with the potential to lead, present, and publish your work as a recognized expert in your field.

• Spend your time outdoors in the field, working in various habitats and protecting and restoring streams, wetlands, and natural ecosystems.
• Lead, train, and mentor field teams, helping shape the next generation of restoration professionals.
• Work on diverse projects that require both scientific rigor and creative problem-solving.
• Opportunities to contribute to technical publications, present at conferences, and engage with professional associations.

• Bachelor’s degree in natural or physical sciences (required); advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of relevant experience, or 3+ years with an advanced degree.
• Section 10(a)(1)(A) permit under the Endangered Species Act or ability to obtain one within 6 months of starting employment.
• Strong technical and writing background.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and experience collaborating with landowners, grazers, subcontractors, and other stakeholders.

• Professional certifications such as CRAM, Wetland Delineation Certification, Washington Wetland Rating System, SWAMP, or CERP.
• Comfortable operating UTVs, boats, and towing trailers.

• Communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Enjoy problem‑solving in dynamic environments and can independently evaluate site conditions and risks.
• Balance scientific rigor with practical project needs, contributing to designs and field sequencing.
• Take pride in delivering high‑quality, client‑ready reports with minimal revisions.

Salary: $82,600 - $101,000 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.