Environmental Staff Scientist

Environmental Staff Scientist

Requisition Number: 2026-1350-10

S&ME is looking for an eager and dedicated full-time Environmental Staff Scientist to join our Natural Resources team in Charlotte, North Carolina.

As a Staff Scientist, you will play a critical role in delivering natural resource projects that balance environmental stewardship with practical project solutions. You'll lead and support a mix of field and office-based efforts, from conducting delineations and ecological assessments to coordinating with regulatory agencies and shaping high-quality technical deliverables. This role offers the opportunity to directly influence project outcomes, guide compliance strategies, and contribute to sustainable development, all while collaborating with clients and internal teams to move meaningful work forward.

Your Day-to-Day

• Project Leadership: Assist with the management of natural resource projects from start to finish, including schedules, budgets, and deliverables, while ensuring quality and compliance standards are met.
• Regulatory Coordination: Collaborate with federal, state, and local agencies to evaluate jurisdictional waters, support permitting efforts, and ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
• Field Investigations: Conduct wetland and waters delineations, stream assessments, and protected species surveys to support project planning and compliance.
• Technical Reporting & GIS Support: Prepare clear, defensible technical reports and contribute GIS mapping and figure production to support scientific documentation and client deliverables.
• Client & Team Collaboration: Build strong relationships with clients while working closely with internal teams, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to safe, efficient project execution.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences, or a related field
• Minimum of 2 years' experience or previous studies in environmental compliance (natural resources)
  
  
  
  • Specific experience a plus:
    
    
    
    • Waters of the U.S. delineations requiring identification of wetland vegetation, hydrology, and hydric soils
    • Environmental permitting related to impacts to waters of the U.S.
    • Protected species and ecological assessments
    
    
    
    
  • Working knowledge of ESRI's ArcGIS Pro and/or ArcMap software
  
  
  
  

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

You are willing and able to perform the physical demands of this position with the use of Company-provided Personal Protective Equipment, such as:

• Working the majority of the time outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Working outside of normal business hours and traveling (potentially overnight) when necessary

We Are S&ME:

At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of 1,000+ employee-owners across 10+ states works together to create meaningful impact for our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

Here's what you can look forward to:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• Wellness Program - $50 off per month on your 2027 premiums!
• Pet Insurance
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
• Paid Maternity & Parental Leave
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs
• Credential Incentive Program - get rewarded for advancing your skills
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program
• Company Vehicle & Fuel Card - for project-based roles
• $2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses - and more!

If you are seeking a challenging and rewarding career with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, join our team!

This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.