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Spatial Ecology Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Experience utilizing GIS and spatial data tools to support environmental analysis, resource mapping, and project delivery. * Advanced degree in Biology, Wildlife Science, Ecology, Environmental ...

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Spatial Ecology information

What is spatial ecology?

Spatial ecology is a branch of ecology that studies how the distribution and arrangement of organisms, populations, and ecosystems are influenced by spatial patterns and processes. It examines how factors like habitat fragmentation, landscape structure, and movement across space affect biodiversity and ecological interactions. Spatial ecologists use tools such as geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial statistics to analyze these patterns and inform conservation and management strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spatial ecologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spatial Ecologist, you need strong quantitative skills, knowledge of ecological theory, and a relevant degree (such as in ecology, geography, or environmental science). Proficiency with GIS software (like ArcGIS or QGIS), remote sensing tools, and statistical programming languages (such as R or Python) is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are vital for accurately analyzing spatial patterns in ecosystems and informing conservation or land management decisions.

What are some common challenges spatial ecologists face when working with large-scale environmental datasets?

Spatial ecologists often work with vast and complex datasets that require advanced analytical skills and familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and remote sensing tools. One common challenge is ensuring data quality and consistency, especially when integrating information from multiple sources or at different spatial and temporal resolutions. Additionally, translating complex spatial analyses into actionable insights for conservation or resource management often requires effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, such as biologists, policy makers, and land managers. Staying current with evolving analytical techniques and software is also essential for success in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Spatial Ecology vs Conservation Biologist?

AspectSpatial EcologyConservation Biologist
Required CredentialsDegree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field; GIS and spatial analysis skillsDegree in Biology, Ecology, or Environmental Science; fieldwork experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, GIS officesFieldwork, research institutions, conservation organizations
Industry UsageEcological research, spatial data analysis, habitat modelingWildlife conservation, policy advocacy, habitat management

Spatial Ecology focuses on analyzing spatial patterns and processes in ecosystems using GIS and spatial data, while Conservation Biologists work to protect species and habitats through research and policy. Both roles often collaborate but differ in their primary focus and methods.

Infographic showing various Spatial Ecology job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 69% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution.

Environmental Scientist/Ecologist

HNTB

Nashville, TN

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


HNTB rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

What We're Looking For

At HNTB, you can create a career that is meaningful to you while building communities that matter to all of us. For more than a century, we have been delivering solutions for some of the largest, most complex infrastructure projects across the country. With our historic growth, it is an exciting time to join our team of employee-owners.
This opportunity entails being responsible for applying the principles and theories of geology, hydrology, chemistry, biology or other related sciences to analyze the potential effects a project may have on the environment and/or the potential effects the environment may have on the design and construction of a project. Participates in moderate to complex projects or all level of project/program difficulty and/or may be responsible for an assigned phase of project or program.

What You'll Do:

  • Conducts research, gathers scientific information and data, and leads field investigations among other supporting activities.
  • Determines or develops best methodology and technical approaches for conducting analysis in field work; sets up test equipment as necessary to obtain scientific data.
  • Using established prescribed templates, prepares data analysis, modeling, written reports, maps, etc. as appropriate to support findings as it pertains to the natural or man-made environment in the study area.
  • Reviews and evaluates technical reports and plans of scientific aspects of proposed projects for the environmental review of projects including permitting, and development of mitigation plans.
  • Examines and evaluates present and future potential environmental science effects relating to the planning, design, and construction of proposed projects.
  • Serves as task lead or principal author in the preparation of reports, graphs, and diagrams on scientific aspects relating to specific projects.
  • Provides technical support to project managers as situations arise during the construction of project that require scientific assistance.
  • Supports the marketing efforts as assigned.
  • Schedules of new and on-going projects.
  • Prepares permits for public and private clients with respect to acquisition and compliance for wetland impacts, bridge construction, and/or threatened/endangered species.
  • Assists in organizing, preparation of public meetings.
  • Attends various meetings with clients, other engineering firms, and staff.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

What You'll Need:

  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Archeology, Anthropology or related field and 4 years relevant experience, or
  • Master's Degree in Geology, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Archeology, Anthropology or related field and 3 years of relevant experience

What We Prefer:

  • Experience conducting environmental field investigations, habitat assessments, and ecological surveys in support of infrastructure, land development, natural resource management, or regulatory compliance projects.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Clean Water Act Sections 401/404, Endangered Species Act, and related state and federal environmental regulations.
  • Experience preparing biological assessments, environmental documentation, permit applications, and agency coordination materials for regulatory review and approval.
  • Proficiency identifying wetlands, streams, protected species habitat, and other sensitive environmental resources that may affect project development and permitting strategies.
  • Experience coordinating with federal, state, and local resource and regulatory agencies.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead field efforts, interpret environmental data, and synthesize technical findings into clear and defensible reports.
  • Experience utilizing GIS and spatial data tools to support environmental analysis, resource mapping, and project delivery.
  • Advanced degree in Biology, Wildlife Science, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline

Additional Information

Click here for benefits information: HNTB Total Rewards

Click here to learn more about Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.#CB #EnvironmentalPlanning

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Locations:

Nashville, TN (City Center)

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NOTICE TO THIRD-PARTY AGENCIES:

HNTB does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or agencies. Any staffing/employment agency, person or entity that submits an unsolicited resume to this site does so with the understanding that the applicant's resume will become the property of HNTB. HNTB will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion and without any fee owed to the submitting staffing/employment agency, person or entity. Staffing/employment agencies who have fee agreements with HNTB must submit applicants to the designated HNTB recruiter to be eligible for placement fees.


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About HNTB

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HNTB, you can create a career that is meaningful to you while building communities that matter to all of us. For more than a century, we have been delivering solutions for some of the largest, most complex infrastructure projects across the country. With our historic growth, it is an exciting time to join our team of employee-owners.

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1914