Entry Level Environmental Scientist Jobs in Decatur, GA

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Environmental Inspector / Wetland Scientist to support environmental compliance and natural resource permitting for natural gas and power infrastructure projects throughout the Atlanta metro area and greater Georgia region. This role involves field-based environmental inspections, wetland delineations, regulatory compliance monitoring, and coordination with project teams to ensure adherence to federal, state, and local environmental regulations. The ideal candidate will conduct environmental inspections for construction sites associated with natural gas pipelines, electric transmission/distribution, and power generation projects; perform and document wetland delineations and stream assessments in accordance with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) methodology; prepare inspection reports and provide guidance to field crews on best management practices for erosion control and environmental protection; and develop professional relationships with clients and crews in the field and work to resolve compliance issues.

The Environmental Inspector/Wetland Scientist role will take on more complex evaluations and fieldwork related to biology, ecology, chemistry, toxicology or risk assessment. The duties may include conducting samples, performing habitat assessments, modeling, data review, and report preparation. This position may also conduct wetland delineations and review lab data from chemistry or bioassay evaluations. This position will be expected to adhere to health and safety and quality protocols.

Responsibilities

• Perform tasks in area of specialty.
• Conduct wetland delineations, habitat assessments, chemistry data reviews or risk calculations.
• Lead routine field investigations.
• Complete components of human health and ecological risk assessments.
• Run simple models.
• Implement Work Plans and established procedures.
• Flexibility to adapt and execute various additional assignments based on evolving needs.

Mentorship

• May provide mentorship, guidance, support, and knowledge-sharing to help entry-level team members develop their skills and grow within their roles.

Skills and Competencies

• Knowledge in one or more areas relevant to environmental or life sciences, such as aquatic and terrestrial ecology, biology, environmental science, soil science, microbiology, toxicology, chemistry or risk assessment.
• Strong quantitative skills.
• Accurate recording of field events.
• Strong written and communications skills.
• Ability to learn and apply new skills and knowledge in relevant applications of environmental sciences.

Experience

• Typically requires minimum of 2 years of life sciences or related experience. · Typically certified in the SMS Framework, and progressing through the SMS competencies.

Education

• A degree in life sciences or related field or equivalent experience is required.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working with natural gas and electrical/power clients
• Candidates must possess one or more of the following State of Georgia certifications (or ability to obtain quickly):
  • Georgia Erosion & Sediment Control Certified Inspector (Level 1B or higher)
  • Georgia Erosion & Sediment Control Certified Design Professional (Level II) (preferred)
  • Any additional Georgia-specific environmental compliance certifications are a plus
• Completion of the USACE 40-Hour Wetland Delineation Course
• Familiarity with Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) and EPD permitting processes
• GIS experience (ArcGIS or similar)
• HAZWOPER certification
• Field-intensive role requiring work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions
• Ability to walk long distances, navigate wetlands, and carry field equipment
• Travel within the Atlanta metro area, surrounding regions (occasionally overnight), and occasional out of state travel.

Salary Range: The anticipated starting pay range for this position is based on the employee’s primary work location and may be more or less depending upon skills, experience, and education.  These ranges may be modified in the future.  

Location A: $71,000 - $96,000

You can view which BC location applies to you here. If you have any questions, please speak with your Recruiter. 

Benefits and Other Compensation:  We provide a comprehensive benefits package that promotes employee health, performance, and success which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time off and parental leave, paid holidays, 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match, performance-based bonus eligibility, employee referral bonuses, tuition reimbursement, pet insurance and long-term care insurance. Click here to see our full list of benefits. 

About Brown and Caldwell  

Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, Brown and Caldwell is a full-service environmental engineering and construction services firm with 50 offices and over 2,100 professionals across North America and the Pacific. For more than 75 years, we have created leading-edge environmental solutions for municipalities, private industry, and government agencies. We strive to be the company of choice—to our clients, who benefit from our passion for delivering exceptional quality, and to our employees, present and future, who share our commitment to client service, collaboration, and innovation. Join us, and you will find a home where you can do your best work, reach new levels of expertise, and enjoy exceptional development opportunities. For more information, visit www.brownandcaldwell.com 

This position is subject to a pre-employment background check and a pre-employment drug test.  

Notice to Third Party Agencies: Brown and Caldwell does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and approved engagement request with Brown and Caldwell, Brown and Caldwell reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency.   

Brown and Caldwell is proud to be an EEO/AAP Employer. Brown and Caldwell encourages protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, and applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Brown and Caldwell ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

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