Environmental Scientist (Permitting Specialist)

Houston Engineering is seeking an Environmental Scientist (Permitting Specialist) in Maple Grove, MN. The role involves providing solutions for water quality and sustainability, requiring expertise in wetland delineation, regulatory compliance, and project management. Candidates should have a degree in biological sciences and at least five years of relevant experience. The position includes fieldwork, client interaction, and occasional travel, with a focus on environmental regulations and technical reporting.
About the position

At Houston Engineering Inc. (HEI), we are seeking an Environmental Scientist (Permitting Specialist) to join our team in Maple Grove, MN. This position is pivotal in providing innovative and practical solutions in water quality and sustainability to our diverse clientele, which includes public, private, and non-profit organizations. As a leader in the development of climate and environmental decision support systems, HEI prides itself on its commitment to meeting client needs through cutting-edge environmental solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of biological and ecological concepts related to water resources, along with a comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local regulatory programs. The role emphasizes wetland delineation experience in Minnesota, particularly for candidates who are already certified in this area. Additionally, regional experience in botanical surveys and Minnesota certifications for rare species surveys will be highly regarded. Candidates should have regulatory experience related to local, state, and federal permitting, as well as NEPA compliance. Experience working on projects related to the Wetland Conservation Act, Clean Water Act, ecology, wildlife habitat, and water quality issues is essential. The successful applicant will demonstrate project management and business development experience, showcasing the ability to work independently and apply logical reasoning to reach technical conclusions. Fieldwork associated with wetland delineations and biological assessments, along with the capability to develop and prepare technical reports with moderate guidance, is a necessity. Occasional travel may be required for this position.

Responsibilities
• Conduct wetland delineations and biological assessments in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
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• Prepare and develop technical reports based on fieldwork and research findings.
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• Manage projects related to water quality, wetlands, and regulatory permitting issues.
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• Interact directly with clients to understand their needs and provide solutions.
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• Conduct botanical surveys and rare species surveys as required by projects.
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• Ensure compliance with the Wetland Conservation Act and Clean Water Act in all project activities.
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• Utilize GIS and computer models to analyze environmental data and support project objectives.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, aquatic or terrestrial biology, ecology, limnology, natural resources management, or water resource science.
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• Minimum of five years of professional experience addressing environmental issues related to water quality and wetlands.
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• Demonstrated experience with regulatory and permitting processes at local, state, and federal levels.
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• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word & Excel), computer models, databases, and GIS.
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• Valid Driver's License in good standing.

Nice-to-haves
• Certification in wetland delineation in Minnesota.
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• Experience with project management and business development.
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• Familiarity with NEPA compliance and environmental impact assessments.

Benefits
• 401(k) matching
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• Dental insurance
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• Disability insurance
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• Flexible schedule
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• Flexible spending account
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• Health savings account
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• Life insurance
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• Paid health insurance
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• Paid time off (PTO)
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• Paid holidays
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• Parental leave
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• Significant annual bonuses