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Natural Resource Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Natural Resource Scientist information

What is a natural resource scientist?

A Natural Resource Scientist is a professional who studies, manages, and helps conserve natural resources such as water, soil, plants, and wildlife. They use scientific principles to assess the health of ecosystems, develop sustainable management plans, and advise on environmental policy. Their work often involves field research, data analysis, and collaboration with other scientists, government agencies, and the public to ensure the responsible use and preservation of natural resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a natural resource scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Natural Resource Scientist, you need a background in environmental science, ecology, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and field sampling techniques is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) being advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and collaboration skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing environmental data, developing resource management plans, and working with diverse stakeholders to achieve conservation goals.

How do natural resource scientists typically collaborate with government agencies and local communities in their projects?

Natural Resource Scientists often work closely with government agencies to ensure that their research and recommendations align with regulatory requirements and conservation policies. They also engage with local communities to gather input, provide education, and encourage sustainable resource management practices. This collaborative approach helps build support for conservation initiatives and ensures that proposed solutions are practical and culturally appropriate. Effective communication and stakeholder engagement are essential skills for success in these collaborative efforts.

What is the difference between Natural Resource Scientist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectNatural Resource ScientistEnvironmental Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research labs, government agencies, conservation organizationsFieldwork, research labs, government agencies, consulting firms
Industry UsageNatural resource management, conservation, land use planningEnvironmental impact assessments, pollution control, policy advising

Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, focusing on environmental data collection and analysis. However, Natural Resource Scientists primarily concentrate on managing and conserving natural resources like water, land, and wildlife, while Environmental Scientists often focus on assessing and mitigating environmental impacts and pollution. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Natural Resource Scientist jobs

What states have the most Natural Resource Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Natural Resource Scientist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Natural Resource Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Natural Resources Scientist - WI or IL

TERRACON

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$85K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

Role: Natural Resources Scientist

Location: Cudahy, Wisconsin or Chicago, IL or Glendale Heights, IL

Onsite/Hybrid

Full-Time

Salary Range: $85,000 - $108,000

Mid-Senior Level | Level Determined by Experience

Make a lasting impact on wetlands, natural resources, and environmental compliance across the Upper Midwest, while growing your career with a respected environmental consulting firm. This role offers the opportunity to work on diverse, meaningful projects throughout Illinois and Wisconsin, with a strong balance of fieldwork, project leadership, and client collaboration. 

General Responsibilities: 

  • Prepare permit applications, risk assessments, and technical documentation - including proposals, reports, and regulatory agency correspondence.
  • Design environmental protection plans and support sustainable site development initiatives.

Projects May Include:

  • Ecological and natural resource field surveys.
  • Wetland and waters of the U.S. delineations, impact assessments, and permitting.
  • Wetland mitigation.
  • Stormwater management.
  • Site planning and regulatory permitting.
  • Habitat assessments and agency coordination.
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Our national environmental team helps our clients do the right thing for their projects, and for our planet. Our professionals include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers, geologists, historians, industrial hygienists, planners, and scientists. Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and processes to address environmental challenges and move their projects forward as quickly, safely, and sustainably as possible. With services including site assessment, planning and permitting including cultural and natural resources, sustainability and resiliency, regulatory compliance, and industrial hygiene and safety, we're at the forefront of helping clients succeed and communities thrive.
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Engineering, Geology, Archaeology, or related discipline. Master's degree or PhD preferred.
  • Minimum of 7 years' related experience. Or, in lieu of a degree, a minimum of 11 years' related experience.
  • Demonstrated senior-level experience in waters of the U.S./permitting, listed species, or NEPA.
  • Section 401/404 permitting and/or listed species experience needed.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.
  • Certification in the field of expertise required.
  • Wisconsin DNR Assured wetland delineator credentials preferred.
  • Illinois Lake County and DuPage County Wetland certification preferred.
  • Knowledge of WDNR, IL state and local and USACE jurisdictional wetland regulations.
  • Familiarity using Trimble and ESRI products.

#LI-JB1

  • Plan, lead, and execute environmental and wetland projects of moderate to high complexity, from fieldwork through reporting.
  • Perform and oversee wetland delineations, ecological field surveys, sampling, and scientific analyses.
  • Ensure projects meet federal, state, and local regulatory requirements and quality standards.
  • Serve as a technical resource and team lead, mentoring junior scientists and coordinating field staff.
  • Develop and review technical reports, permit applications, and client proposals.
  • Analyze and interpret complex field and laboratory data to support defensible conclusions.
  • Collaborate directly with clients, regulators, and internal teams on project planning and delivery.
  • Uphold safety, quality, and professional standards on all projects
  • Progress toward Terracon Authorized Project Reviewer certification with structured mentoring.

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