On-Call - Senior Scientist II

Simply Put, A Great Place to Work

Benesch is a growing, multi-disciplined planning, engineering, and professional services firm. We enhance infrastructure and communities across the country – creating spaces and providing connections in ways that make a difference.

We pride ourselves on being nimble enough to remain responsive to client needs, yet large enough to offer exceptional bench strength. As a member of our team, you’ll have an opportunity to draw from those resources when you need them, and likewise, contribute your expertise when you have something to share.

At Benesch, we are looking for candidates with varied backgrounds and worldviews. Diverse ideas come from diverse people, and we are committed to offering an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Statistics show that women and underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for a position if they don’t meet 100% of the qualifications. If this statement resonates with you – don’t be so hard on yourself. Apply for the job!

On-Call Senior Scientist II - Natural Resources/Railroad – Remote  

We are seeking to hire an experienced and highly skilled Senior Scientist II to join our robust Natural Resources/Railroad team on an on-call basis. As an on-call employee you will manage both field and office assignments, focusing on projects related to NEPA compliance documentation, natural resource impacts, and permitting.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a Senior Scientist I level of competency and responsibility, overseeing various aspects of environmental projects with minimal supervision. This role requires a proactive and detail-oriented individual with strong analytical skills, effective communication abilities, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to taking initiative.

Location: In line with our commitment to work/life balance, this role offers complete remote flexibility. As a valued member of the Benesch team, you can choose to work from any of our offices that host a Railroad team, including locations such as Milwaukee, WI; Chicago, IL; Naperville, IL; Charlotte, NC; Cincinnati, OH; Jacksonville, FL; Omaha, NE; and Raleigh, NC.

Benesch’s Railroad Division is made up of highly skilled rail professionals, many of whom are former employees of operating railroads. This firsthand experience working on designing and maintaining active rail systems uniquely equips our team to develop innovative solutions to a wide variety of rail projects. 

The Impact You Will Have: 

• Demonstrate a Senior Scientist I level of competency, overseeing environmental projects with minimal supervision.
• Conduct on-site data collection, encompassing plant and vegetation, soil, cultural/historic features, wildlife, socio-economic factors, and environmental site assessments.
• Synthesize complex information, deriving meaningful insights for project elements and collected data.
• Research and apply data and design standards, ensuring accuracy and compliance in calculations and analysis.
• Utilize engineering judgment to interpret data, making informed decisions supporting project objectives.
• Identify data relationships and dependencies, designing workflows and procedures accordingly. Compile data into reports, incorporate information into databases, complete permit applications, and manage agency correspondence.
• Oversee, perform, and review inspections and construction observations associated with environmental projects.
• Prepare clear and concise technical reports and internal/external communications.
• Provide technical direction, coordinating assignments with others working on related tasks.
• Possess advanced knowledge in various environmental tasks, including wetland identification, wildlife surveys, T&E identification, and NEPA documentation.
• Guide routine project efforts assigned to staff, identifying viable alternatives to plans and designs based on collected data.
• Assist the Project Manager in developing work plans, QC/QA reviews, and managing contract deliverables, schedules, and budgets.
• Identify out-of-scope items and report to the Project Manager before work initiation.
• Effectively communicate with project teams and clients, clearly expressing ideas and thoughts.
• Exhibit strong analytical skills in problem-solving and decision-making.
• Demonstrate advanced technical writing skills in creating comprehensive reports and documentation.
• Select and use appropriate communication methods, exhibiting good listening and comprehension skills.
• Take initiative in learning and applying new skills, pursuing training and development opportunities.
• Seek increased responsibilities and share expertise with others within the team.