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Delineator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Professional Wetland Delineator (PWD), Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Virginia State Waters Delineator (VSWD), ISA Certified Arborist, or similar certification is preferred * Proficiency with ...

Environmental Scientist II

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$64K - $82K/yr

Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT), Professional Wetland Delineator (PWD), Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Virginia State Waters Delineator (VSWD), ISA Certified Arborist, or similar ...

Environmental Scientist II

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$64K - $82K/yr

Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT), Professional Wetland Delineator (PWD), Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Virginia State Waters Delineator (VSWD), ISA Certified Arborist, or similar ...

Environmental Scientist III

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Professional Wetland Delineator (PWD), Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Virginia State Waters Delineator (VSWD), ISA Certified Arborist, or similar certification is preferred * Proficiency with ...

Delineator information

What is a delineator?

Delineators are professionals who prepare detailed maps, drawings, or plans, often in fields like architecture, engineering, or surveying. Their primary role is to translate design concepts and technical information into visual representations that can be easily understood by construction teams, clients, or regulatory authorities. Delineators use specialized software and tools to ensure accuracy, clarity, and compliance with relevant standards. Their work is crucial for successful project planning and execution, as it serves as a blueprint for building and development activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a delineator?

To thrive as a Delineator, you need proficiency in drafting, technical drawing, and a solid understanding of architectural or engineering principles, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or MicroStation) and other design tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help Delineators produce precise drawings and collaborate with project teams. These skills ensure accurate project documentation, reduce errors, and support the successful completion of engineering or architectural projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by delineators when working on large infrastructure projects?

Delineators often face challenges such as interpreting complex engineering plans, coordinating with multiple teams (like surveyors, engineers, and construction crews), and adapting to evolving project requirements. Large projects may require managing tight deadlines and ensuring precise boundary markings to avoid costly errors. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential, as mistakes can impact project timelines and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Delineator vs Surveyor?

AspectDelineatorSurveyor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in drafting and designHigh school diploma; often requires surveying certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, roadways, and outdoor projectsOutdoor fieldwork, construction sites, and land development areas
Industry UsageUsed primarily in construction, road design, and civil engineering projectsUsed in land surveying, mapping, and land development projects

While both Delineators and Surveyors work in construction and land development environments, Delineators focus on marking and designing project layouts, whereas Surveyors measure and map land boundaries. Understanding these differences helps clarify their distinct roles in construction and civil engineering projects.

Environmental Scientist III

Dewberry

Fairfax, VA

$81K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Dewberry is currently seeking an Environmental Scientist III in the Mid-Atlantic region. This position offers the flexibility to be located in our Fairfax, Richmond, or Virginia Beach, Virginia offices. This full-time opening will provide the applicant with the opportunity to work as part of a growing team in all facets of environmental services including wetland science, regulatory permitting, environmental compliance, and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation. Typical projects involve private, locality, state, and federal agency clients in the transportation market and environmental permitting for land development projects. Tasks include leading CWA permitting; NEPA documentation; agency coordination; and public outreach. In addition to leading field investigations (wetland delineation, stream assessments, and compliance inspections) and the preparation of technical reports and feasibility studies. The successful candidate will be involved in project management, mentoring, training, and quality control. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of experience working in the environmental and natural resources field.

Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 50 locations and 2,000 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors is our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a new graduate, you’ll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call “Dewberry at Work,” that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.


  • Must be willing/able to perform field work
  • Lead field delineations of Waters of the U.S., including wetlands, and conduct stream assessments
  • Coordinate site visits with clients and regulatory agencies in the field
  • Prepare delineation reports, functional assessments, Jurisdictional Determinations (JD) requests, Perennial Flow Determinations (PFD), and Water Quality Impact Assessments (WQIA)
  • Lead multi-faceted projects in collaboration with scientists, engineers, and subconsultants
  • Prepare Clean Water Act (CWA) 404/401 permit applications
  • Prepare CWA 402 Registration Statements and Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP)
  • Conduct database reviews and background research to support the NEPA document development process and prepare NEPA documentation
  • Prepare Section 7 consultations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and coordinate Time of Year Restrictions
  • Prepare Section 106 consultations with the State Historic Preservation Officer and coordinate avoidance and mitigation measures
  • Conduct permit and NEPA compliance monitoring during construction
  • Assist team members with fieldwork, technical reports, technical reports, agency coordination, and quality control
  • Assist with the preparation of proposals/pursuits, provide technical input, and contribute to proposal writing
  • Jobs and locations may require overnight travel and the ability to walk over uneven terrain while carrying heavy equipment

  • 5+ years of applicable experience, including project/task management experience
  • B.S. in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Wildlife Biology, Geology, or a related field
  • Professional Wetland Delineator (PWD), Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Virginia State Waters Delineator (VSWD), ISA Certified Arborist, or similar certification is preferred
  • Proficiency with ArcGIS PRO, AutoCAD, and/or MicroStation is preferred
  • Ability to lead environmental permitting and NEPA processes and coordinate with clients and regulatory agencies
  • Experience preparing and submitting Clean Water Act 404/401 permit applications and NEPA documentation
  • Experience coordinating with state, federal, and local regulatory agencies
  • Knowledge of state (Virginia) and federal legislation as it relates to CWA Sections 401/404 permitting and NEPA
  • Knowledge and understanding of complex regulatory issues and regulatory changes
  • Ability to compose technical reports, memorandums, and other written communication
  • Ability to manage multiple projects
  • Desire to work in a team environment

*The salary range for this position is: $81,000 - $104,000 and may vary based on experience*

*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.

*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.

*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry, will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry’s background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.

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