1

Mepa Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Springfield, IL

$74.30K - $97.60K/yr

Experience with Federal environmental review processes including NEPA and state environmental review processes such as MEPA * Experience with preparing federal and state permit applications for ...

Experience with Federal environmental review processes including NEPA and state environmental review processes such as MEPA * Experience with preparing federal and state permit applications for ...

Mepa information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a MEPA (Medical Emergency Preparedness Administrator), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Emergency Preparedness Administrator, you need expertise in emergency management, healthcare protocols, and risk assessment, often supported by a degree in public health or emergency management. Familiarity with incident command systems, emergency response software, and certifications like CEM (Certified Emergency Manager) are typically required. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills help coordinate teams and manage high-pressure situations effectively. These skills ensure thorough preparedness, efficient response to medical emergencies, and the safety of patients and staff.

What are some common challenges faced by MEPA (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Automation) professionals on large-scale construction projects?

MEPA professionals often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple trades to prevent clashes, managing changes in design or scope, and ensuring compliance with complex building codes and safety standards. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as MEPA work is deeply integrated with architectural and structural elements. Staying organized and proactively addressing issues can help ensure project timelines and budgets are met. Additionally, professionals must keep up with advancements in technology and sustainability practices to deliver optimal solutions.

What is a MEPA (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Associate) and what do they do?

A MEPA, or Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Associate, is a professional who assists with the design, coordination, and implementation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in construction projects. They work closely with engineers, architects, and construction teams to ensure that these vital building systems are integrated efficiently and comply with safety standards. Their responsibilities may include reviewing plans, conducting site inspections, and coordinating between various disciplines to address technical challenges. MEPA roles are essential for ensuring building functionality, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort.

What is the difference between Mepa vs Building Inspector?

CriteriaMepaBuilding Inspector
Required CredentialsEnvironmental or regulatory certifications, licensingConstruction, safety, and building code certifications
Work EnvironmentRegulatory agencies, government offices, site inspectionsConstruction sites, government offices, inspection sites
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, government departmentsMunicipalities, construction companies, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonRegulatory compliance, environmental permitsBuilding safety, code enforcement

While both Mepa and Building Inspectors work within regulatory and construction environments, Mepa primarily focuses on environmental permits and compliance, whereas Building Inspectors concentrate on safety standards and building code enforcement. Understanding these differences helps clarify their distinct roles in the industry.

Infographic showing various Mepa job openings in Illinois as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Hybrid job distribution.
Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Foth

Springfield, IL

$74.30K - $97.60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Foth is a 100% member-owned science and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Wisconsin, with over 85 years of success. Our 750 members across 33 locations are dedicated to solving our clients’ toughest science and engineering challenges. Consistently ranked by Engineering News Record in the top 150 firms, we offer a values-based, collaborative, and flexible work environment with professional growth opportunities. If you thrive working alongside a smart and caring team, Foth may be the place for you.
Join our team and experience the Foth difference that contributes to our impressive 92+% member retention rate! Learn more at foth.com/careers. 


Foth is currently seeking a team-focused, innovative, and results-oriented Geologist / Environmental Scientist who is looking for new learning experiences, opportunities for career growth, and a desire to contribute to our clients’ success.  This position will be located in one of our Green Bay, WI; Madison, WI; Minneapolis, MN; Duluth, MN; Springfield, IL; Des Moines, IA or Cedar Rapids, IA locations with a hybrid option.  This role does require the ability to travel to project and team locations on an occasional, as-needed basis.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Provide environmental review and data analysis for multiple environmental, regulatory, and permitting projects throughout the Midwest
  • Coordinate, plan, and execute environmental and technical fieldwork, including independent field assignments, documentation, and reporting
  • Provide project review, analysis, and summary of regulations and procedures governing environmental review, permitting, and data analysis
  • Interact with project stakeholders and key regulatory agency personnel to assist project proponents in navigating environmental review and permitting
  • Draft and contribute to environmental review and technical documents—such as Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments, Biological Assessments, field observation reports, and technical memoranda—including data research, analysis, and synthesis aligned with stakeholder goals and regulatory standards
  • Coordinate project tasks and field activities using strong organizational skills, ensuring effective collaboration among project team members
  • Present technical concepts, analyses, and findings clearly and concisely to internal teams, clients, and stakeholders
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrogeology, or related field
  • Experience with field sampling methods and related data management and reporting
  • Experience working with environmental data sources, metrics and standards
  • Experience managing multiple project tasks simultaneously
Preferred Qualifications:
  • 2+ years of experience in a similar environmental scientist role
  • Demonstrable experience in preparation of environmental permitting or environmental review documents in the upper Midwest
  • Experience with Federal environmental review processes including NEPA and state environmental review processes such as MEPA
  • Experience with preparing federal and state permit applications for natural resource projects
  • Private-sector or government experience, especially in the environmental review or permitting fields
  • Basic GIS experience
The base compensation listed for this job posting reflects a general range for the posted position.  Base compensation will vary based on factors such as: years of experience, location, level of responsibility and licenses/certifications. In addition to base compensation, Foth members may be eligible to receive bonuses through our Earned Performance Incentive program. All employees are eligible for On-the-Spot bonuses.  Exempt members are also eligible for either quarterly and/or annual bonuses.  Eligible full-time and part-time members will be offered medical, dental, vision insurance, employee assistance program, disability, retirement, holiday pay, paid time off, and several other voluntary benefits. Please reach out to the recruiting team to discuss any specific benefits or compensation questions.  
 
Note: In some situations, we may consider an alternative position based on your skill set and experience. This may result in a different compensation range.
All Foth Companies are equal opportunity employers, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Qualified women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. All locations are tobacco-free.  Subject to applicable state law, all applicants who have received a written offer of employment and a copy of Foth’s Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace Program Policy, will be required to undergo testing for commonly abused controlled substances. Applicants must complete the required drug testing within two business days of offer acceptance.  Foth will pay for all drug testing, which will be conducted by a licensed independent medical laboratory that follows testing requirements in accordance with applicable state law.
 
Colorado Residents: In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
 
Notice to Third Party Recruiters/Agencies: Foth does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed recruiting agreement coordinated through Foth, Foth reserves the right to pursue and hire candidates without financial obligation to third party recruiters or agencies.
 
Artificial Intelligence: Foth uses artificial intelligence and other technology-assisted tools in connection with parts of our recruiting and hiring process, including to assist with reviewing application materials, identifying potentially qualified candidates, sourcing candidates, and supporting interview preparation.  These tools are used to support, but do not replace, human decision-making, and all employment decisions are made by qualified human reviewers.  Where required by law, we will provide additional information regarding the use of these tools, and applicants may contact us with questions or request reasonable accommodation regarding their use.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.