Entry Level Natural Resource Jobs in Portland, OR

WSP is currently initiating a search for an Early Career Environmental Scientist for our Vancouver, WA Office.  Takes part in providing local technical assistance for the collection, identification, and compiling of observational and spatial data concerning a variety of biological, physical, and earth sciences.  Provides local assistance for the development of processes and infrastructure relating to water supply, air emission, pollution control, cultural impact, and preserving the quality of the environment by identifying, controlling, and preventing disruption to environmental systems and species caused by human activity.  Generates accurate and concise documentation, ensuring that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards.

• Under general supervision, conduct natural resource field surveys collecting observational, spatial, and environmental data.
• Under general supervision, collect and compile samples of air, soil, water, sludge, and other matrices for analysis.
• Maintain quality control standards and procedures for accurate and precise measurement and documentation.
• Assist with performing basic professional environmental science work relating to ecological systems, air, and water resources, assisting with verifying the characteristics of a site and providing entry-level technical assistance on various environmental issues. 
• Generate complete, accurate, and concise documentation using electronic systems and field/work site notebook.
• Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, the maintenance of sample collection, location data, laboratory or statistical documentation, and logbooks.
• Utilize the latest technologies and techniques in performing studies and analysis of habitats, sites, and potential impacts to the health of the environment and the population.
• Complete training on assigned tasks.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, or a related life sciences field.
• Analytical skills, and familiarity with research techniques, local/regional ecology and habitats, and applicable species/discipline.
• Familiar with relevant environmental laws, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements. 
• Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to a scientific and non-scientific audience.
• Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
• Basic proficiency with business writing, office automation and communication software, technology, and tools.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

WSP Benefits:  

WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.  

Compensation:

Expected Salary (all locations): $55,200 - $82,800

WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to internal equity and specific geographic location. WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law.