Ecological Field Lead

GAI Consultants is seeking an Ecological Field Lead (Assistant Environmental Specialist 2) to conduct wetland delineations and other environmental resources field investigations for electric transmission and other energy-related projects. The successful candidate will enjoy working in a challenging, fast-paced, and team-oriented environment that will utilize their related experience to develop professionally and grow in today's global environment. This position is eligible for GAI’s flexible Hybrid workplace selection, in accordance with our Telework Policy.

As Ecological Field Lead, you will:  

• Lead ecological field surveys including but not limited to wetland and stream delineations, endangered species surveys, botanical investigations, environmental inspections and compliance monitoring.
• Work with a team of professionals to conduct a variety of ecological studies and environmental investigations across the eastern U.S.
• Lead the preparation of wetland delineation and other technical reports for a range of energy projects.

As Ecological Field Lead, you are:  

• A trusted leader, skilled in directing both the technical and logistical elements of conducting field studies in remote locations.
• An experienced expert in ecological and environmental science, including wetland ecology and delineation procedures.
• Happy being on the road – visiting job sites, working with colleagues in remote areas and difficult terrain, and interacting with agencies, clients, and the public.  Weekly travel will be required, and you will work as part of a team hiking in rough terrain, exposed to weather and outdoor hazards and requiring long or irregular hours.

As Ecological Field Lead, you have:  

• Bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Studies, Fish and Wildlife Science, Natural Resources or related field.
• Relevant experience working in the environmental or biological sciences industry.
• You have proven expertise with leading wetland delineations in OH, WV, PA, VA, MD and/or surrounding states. Wetland delineation training and certification (PWS/WPIT) are strongly preferred.
• Experience conducting botanical, avian, mammal, and aquatic surveys are a plus, and you will have the opportunity to lead these efforts as well.

Travel Requirements

• Expectation of 90% daily travel throughout VA, PA, WV, and OH. Overnight stays required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and rugged terrain. Exposure to active construction sites. 

• Capable of walking, hiking, or standing for extended periods during field and site visits. 

• Must be able to lift and carry tools, equipment, technical samples, documents, and other materials weighing up to 40–50 pounds. 

• Frequent bending, crouching, and climbing may be required during fieldwork and sample collection. 

• Ability to safely operate and wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and boots as required by site safety protocols. 

• Visual acuity and manual dexterity to handle technical tools, read maps and instruments, observe site conditions, and document findings accurately. 

• Comfortable working in remote or isolated locations, sometimes for extended durations.  

• Comfortable working in confined spaces and/or at heights, as required by specific project sites.  
• May require driving long distances to field sites and operating vehicles on unpaved or uneven roads. 

General Characteristics

• Continues to show progress in acquiring basic skills; follows procedures; learns record keeping protocols general topographic and arial photograph reading experience, learns technical literature basics, available for frequent travel and field work.

Minimum Years of Experience

• 2 to 3 Years of Experience

 Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Sciences or similar field of study

Technical Responsibilities

• Introduction to ecological field data collection, wetland delineations, basic regulatory agency applications, gains knowledge of regulatory requirements, and other duties as required; receives technical training for career enhancement.

Project and Task Management