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Benthic Ecology Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Benthic Ecology information

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$36.5K

$63K

$110K

How much do benthic ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for benthic ecology in Oregon is $62,958.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,600.00 and $78,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is benthic ecology?

Benthic ecology is the study of organisms that live on, in, or near the bottom of aquatic environments such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. These organisms, known as benthos, include a wide variety of species like worms, crustaceans, mollusks, and some types of algae. Benthic ecologists investigate how these organisms interact with each other and their environment, how they contribute to ecosystem functions, and how they are affected by changes such as pollution or climate change. This field is important for understanding ecosystem health, biodiversity, and the impacts of human activities on aquatic habitats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a benthic ecologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Benthic Ecologist, you need a strong background in marine biology, ecology, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree such as marine science or environmental science. Proficiency with GIS software, statistical analysis tools like R, and experience with field sampling equipment are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate data collection, meaningful ecological insights, and effective collaboration for conservation or research projects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in benthic ecology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in benthic ecology often encounter challenges such as working in remote or harsh aquatic environments, collecting representative samples from difficult-to-access benthic zones, and analyzing large datasets to assess ecosystem health. To address these challenges, benthic ecologists typically rely on advanced sampling equipment, remote sensing technologies, and robust data analysis software. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including oceanographers and data scientists, is also essential for successful research outcomes and to ensure safety and accuracy during fieldwork.

What are popular job titles related to Benthic Ecology jobs in Oregon?

For Benthic Ecology jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Benthic Ecology jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Benthic Ecology jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Benthic Ecology jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Benthic Ecology job openings:

Senior Environmental Permitting Specialist

Wood Plc

Portland, OR • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview / Responsibilities

Wood has an opportunity for a Senior Environmental Permitting Specialist - to include Professional Wetland Scientists - to fill a position with our West Coast natural resources team.   The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of consulting experience and be comfortable preparing permit applications and overseeing technical analyses in support compliance with the Clean Water Act (Sections 404/401), Rivers and Harbors Act (Section 10), Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, etc. - including but not limited to preparing biological evaluations / assessments compliant with the Endangered Species Act; take assessments, Incidental Harassment Authorization applications per the Marine Mammal Protection Act; and preparing Essential Fish Habitat Assessments compliant with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.

Requirements include preparing and adhering to scopes, schedules, and budgets and supervising project team staff. This position will work closely to support the environmental planning and permitting team while collaborating on projects and with technical staff throughout the West.

Key Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities will include leading permitting support for various clients (Federal, local, and commercial / industrial) and preparing analyses of natural resources and related environmental issues in the context of regulatory compliance. The position will also include leadership in business development and proposal preparation.

  • The position is approximately 75% office work and 25% fieldwork on a variety of projects, including commercial, industrial, state, and federal sites
  • Ability to successfully manage all aspects of medium-to-large sized projects, encompassing development of proposals, including development of scope of work/technical approach, budget, and schedule
  • Liaison with client, agencies, and consultant team members
  • The ability to work effectively and independently in a NEPA and / or CEQA project manager role
  • Solid understanding of SEPA requirements and processes
  • Attention and commitment to timely completion of high-quality work
  • Provide oversight, and mentorship to staff- and project-level professionals
  • Assist with developing new work to support the team
  • Lead preparation of technical reports and proposals
  • Biologist may be responsible for preparing marine mammal, fish, and benthic species impact assessments, preparing marine mammal monitoring plans, conducing marine mammal monitoring, preparing marine mammal incidental harassment authorization applications and conducting underwater and ambient noise assessments to support impact assessment and permitting
  • Office work involves researching literature and regulatory requirements, preparing reports, maps and charts, and performing routine calculations
  • Oversee preparation of field reports, internal correspondence, sections of formal reports
  • Compliance with company safety standards and site safety standards in accordance with Wood policy
  • Travel to project sites throughout the western US (between 25% and 50% overnight travel)

#LI-Remote

Skills / Qualifications

Required

  • BS or MS in Marine Biology, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science or related scientific discipline or technical field
  • 10+ years of related experience
  • Must have experience in Project / Program Management, be a self-starter, and have excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Strong technical writing, research, and analytical abilities, and strong attention to detail
  • Demonstrated experience working successfully in a team environment
  • Willingness to travel
  • Must pass drug test, physical, background check and must have a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the Company's driving policy

Preferred

  • Experience with permitting midstream and terminal projects
  • GIS and or AutoCAD experience
  • Proficiency with ArcGIS and spatial analysis tools a plus
Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER