Wetland Scientist

Ecologist / Wetland Scientist

Full-time exempt Professional

Kirkland, Kirkland, WA, US

Salary Range: $95,000 To $135,000 (USD) Annually

PACE Engineers is a Pacific Northwest engineering firm providing civil and structural engineering, planning, surveying, and construction management services from offices in Washington and Oregon. With 135 employee-owners, we are recognized for our expertise, passion, and commitment to clients and communities. Collaboration is central to our culture, enabling us to leverage the creativity and dedication of our teams across all locations, while maintaining a people-first approach that makes PACE both a strong partner and a vibrant community.

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.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

• Lead and oversee critical area and wetland delineations in accordance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (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.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• 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.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• 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

BENEFITS SNAPSHOT

• Hybrid work model & flexible scheduling
• 401(k) & ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)
• 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

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