Freelance Environmental Impact Assessment Jobs in Rochester, NY

The Opportunity:

Tetra Tech is adding an Entry-Level Environmental Scientist to support our growing energy and remediation practice throughout New York State and the Northeastern United States.

This role will primarily support field studies and environmental surveys associated with renewable energy and remediation projects. The ideal candidate will assist with biological fieldwork, environmental data collection, and natural resource assessments focused on wildlife, wetlands, and related ecological resources.

This position is based out of our Rochester, NY office and offers the opportunity to work alongside a collaborative team of environmental professionals supporting projects across the region.

Location: Rochester, NY (Northeastern U.S. Field Support)

Why Tetra Tech:

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Essential Job Functions:

• Conduct biological and natural resource field surveys, including:
  • Avian surveys
  • Wetland delineations
  • Reptile and amphibian surveys
  • Bat surveys
• Support permitting efforts for renewable energy projects at the state and local level
• Assist with environmental site characterization and remediation field activities
• Collect and manage biological field data using:
  • GPS units
  • Tablets and field applications (e.g., Esri Field Maps)
• Perform independent data QA/QC as required
• Support technical staff and project teams on a variety of environmental projects
• Contribute to natural resource assessments and field documentation efforts
• Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
• Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness.
• Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
• Additional duties as required.

Required Qualifications:

• Completion of college-level coursework in:
  • Ornithology
  • Wildlife Science
  • Ecology and/or General Biology
• 1-3 years of professional experience involving field data collection
• Experience using field technologies such as:
  • GPS units
  • Tablets/mobile field data systems
• Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience conducting:
  • Avian surveys in the Eastern United States
  • Rare plant and/or wetland surveys
  • Reptile, amphibian, and bat surveys
• Experience with wetland delineations using:
  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers methodologies
• Familiarity with technical writing and contributing to environmental reports
• OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification preferred but not required

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform outdoor fieldwork in varying terrain and weather conditions
• Ability to walk long distances and work extended field days as needed
• Ability to carry field equipment and work in remote field environments

Work Environment / Travel:

• Combination of office and field-based work
• Fieldwork throughout New York State and potentially other areas within the continental United States
• Exposure to outdoor environmental conditions, including variable weather and rugged terrain
• Collaborative team-oriented consulting environment

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

• Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
• Medical benefits, workers compensation insurance, and 401(k) plan.
• Merit-based financial rewards.
• Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
• Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
• Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth. 

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.

Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience.

Pay Range: $25.00-$32.00 hourly

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech's employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.