Wetland Scientist II

About the Role

Copperhead Environmental Consulting, Inc. seeks a full-time, salaried Wetland Scientist II based in Paint Lick, KY, with a hybrid option in Asheville, NC. This role focuses primarily on a dedicated long-term client project, with opportunities to contribute to additional tasks between and after projects. The position involves field data collection, research, routine equipment maintenance, data entry, and gaining project management experience. Extensive travel (approximately 70%) for client meetings, company meetings, and fieldwork is essential. The role requires presence mainly onsite and cannot be remote.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct fieldwork and prepare reports related to wetland and stream delineations, as well as botanical and hydrologic surveys.
• Apply scientific principles and techniques relevant to wetland environmental science.
• Assist with submitting Section 404/401 permits and related applications.
• Collect and analyze environmental data; manage field samples and specimens.
• Organize, lead, and support field operations including equipment maintenance and logistics.
• Contribute to understanding project goals and deliverables as stated in the Statement of Work, provide feedback on quality and assist in drafting reports.
• Ensure company and safety standards are adhered to during fieldwork.
• Collaborate and coordinate team efforts, providing technical communication both verbally and in writing.
• Critically evaluate data and scientific processes to propose improvements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Project Management

• Recognize activities exceeding the scope of work and communicate accordingly.
• Track project deadlines within team responsibilities, produce deliverables on schedule.
• Provide regular status updates and maintain team communication.

Business Development

• Build professional networks through presentations, trade shows, and conferences.
• Assist with technical input for proposals and understand business development fundamentals.

Leadership and Conduct

• Supervise onsite team activities.
• Seek operational improvements, reduce turnaround times, and deliver excellent customer service.
• Commit to lifelong learning via training and mentorship; support new staff development.

Financial Awareness

• Accurately track time and understand its importance to project budgets and profitability.
• Assist management in monitoring deadlines and resource utilization.

Client Interaction

• Maintain professional communications internally and externally; coordinate with clients under project manager's guidance.
• Uphold company core values emphasizing conservation, biological curiosity, and environmental innovation.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years overall experience with at least 2-5 years dedicated to progressive wetland delineation work.
• Valid driver’s license in good standing and ability to pass background checks.
• Knowledge of applicable environmental regulations including Clean Water Act (Sections 404/401), Endangered Species Act, NEPA, NHPA, and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act.
• Completion of a wetland delineation course consistent with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Program or equivalent Wetland Delineation certification.
• Experience conducting field surveys for federally or state-listed species.
• Certification as a Wetland Professional In-Training (WPIT) by the Society of Wetlands Scientists; preference given to candidates with QHP or QHP-IT certification in Tennessee.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in environmental science, biology, ecology, botany, or a related discipline.

Additional Information

• Travel for fieldwork and meetings is expected to comprise approximately 70% of work time.
• Post-employment fit-for-duty drug tests may be required based on client contracts.
• This position is not remote but may accommodate hybrid work arrangements in Asheville, NC.