Contractual Ecological Risk Assessment Jobs in Chicago, IL

We are seeking a seasoned Project Director to lead complex environmental projects with a focus on wetland science, wetland and stormwater permitting, ecological assessments, and environmental due diligence.

This role involves high-level project oversight, client management, and interdisciplinary team leadership across sectors such as energy, transportation, land development, and municipal infrastructure.

You will work closely with regulatory agencies, clients, and internal teams to ensure the successful delivery of technically sound and regulatory-compliant projects. The ideal candidate brings:

• A strategic mindset

• Technical depth in environmental science and permitting

• A passion for mentoring junior staff and growing client relationships

• Direct and manage multi-disciplinary environmental projects from proposal through completion, including technical execution, budgeting, and scheduling

• Lead wetland delineations, vegetation assessments, ecological surveys, and environmental permitting efforts (e.g., Section 404/401 of the Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, NEPA, NPDES, and other state/local regulatory programs)

• Serve as the primary client contact, building trusted partnerships and identifying opportunities for growth

• Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies (e.g., USACE, USEPA, USFWS) and guide clients through complex regulatory pathways

• Provide senior-level QA/QC review of technical reports and permit applications

• Mentor and supervise staff scientists, project managers, and field teams across service lines

• Participate in strategic planning, business development, and proposal preparation

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources, Environmental Engineering, Geology, Geography, or a related discipline

• Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) certification and other regional wetland/stormwater certifications or ability to obtain preferred

• Advanced knowledge of wetland delineation protocols, vegetation and habitat assessments, and environmental permitting under state and federal programs/guidelines (e.g., CWA Section 404/401, Rivers and Harbors Act Section 10/408, NPDES)

• Strong understanding of risk-based corrective action, site assessments (Phase I/II ASTM ESAs), and stormwater or groundwater management

• Proficiency with environmental data tools, GIS mapping, and geophysical or hydrologic investigation techniques is beneficial

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including experience leading client meetings and public engagement efforts

• Demonstrated experience managing teams and mentoring junior staff

• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects on time and within budget

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in environmental consulting, including project management and technical oversight

• Proven success in developing and managing a personal book of business of at least $500,000 annually through existing client relationships, repeat business, or strategic growth

• Ability to lead, mentor, and inspire interdisciplinary teams while managing scope, schedule, and budget

• Experience coordinating with regulatory agencies such as USACE, USFWS, EPA, and state and local authorities

• Strong capabilities in Phase I/II Environmental Site Assessments, ecological risk assessments, and resource management planning

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including proposal writing and client presentations

• Be a senior leader in a dynamic and growing environmental practice

• Work on a diverse range of high-impact projects in the renewable energy, infrastructure, and land development sectors

• Collaborate with experienced professionals across disciplines in a supportive and inclusive environment

• Competitive compensation, flexible work arrangements, professional development support, and a strong benefits package

From its inception in 1991, Weaver Consultants Group (Weaver) has been founded upon the tenets of attentive and responsive customer service, strong project management, and solid internal financial controls. The quality of our people, our focus on understanding and responding to our client's needs, and our application of good business management practices have resulted in most new projects originating from our existing customer base.

Over the years, our professionals have faced the challenges of a constantly changing industry. Shifting federal and state regulations, cultural trends, and technical innovations have vastly impacted how businesses work. Throughout it all, our team has remained dedicated to our clients, helping to identify pragmatic solutions to help them achieve their business objectives.

EOE/AA/M/F/Vet/Disability
Weaver Consultants Group maintains a drug-free workplace.