Project Scientist III

RK&K is seeking a Project Scientist III to support environmental consulting efforts in our Roanoke and/or Blacksburg, VA offices on a casual/part time basis. This role involves contributing to a variety of infrastructure and development projects (transportation, utilities, water resources), with a focus on stream and wetland delineation, field investigations to support coordination with regulatory agencies, and environmental compliance inspection tasks. Candidates should have 10+ years of experience and a well-developed understanding of Virginia and federal environmental regulations, along with demonstrated expertise in stream and wetland delineation.

Essential Functions

• Support permitting efforts with agencies such as U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and Virginia Marine Resources Commission (MRC).
• Prepare, review, and provide technical oversight for 401/404 permit applications, environmental documentation for state and federal approvals, and VDOT environmental forms and reports.
• Lead field investigations with an emphasis on stream and wetland delineations, including Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) determinations, functional assessments, and Unified Stream Methodology assessments.
• Serve as a technical resource on delineation methodology, regulatory interpretation, and data defensibility.
• Plan and conduct fieldwork related to threatened and endangered species habitat assessments.
• Provide advanced technical writing for reports, impact analyses, delineation reports, and agency coordination materials.
• Perform QA/QC reviews on reports, permit packages, and technical documentation.
• Mentor junior staff, particularly in field methods and delineation techniques.
• Support proposal development, scope writing, and client presentations.

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Biology, Forestry, Environmental Policy, or related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of environmental consulting or related experience.
• Strong background in stream and wetland delineation, including experience applying USACE regional supplements.
• Strong understanding of federal and state environmental regulations (NEPA, Clean Water Act, ESA, etc.).
• Demonstrated experience managing environmental permitting efforts, particularly within Virginia.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB), American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Professional Engineer (PE), DEQ Erosion and Sediment Control Inspector, or similar credentials.
• Graduate degree in related field.
• Experience leading projects, managing client relationships, and mentoring staff.
• Experience conducting habitat assessments for protected bat species in accordance with USFWS guidelines.

Other Duties

This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under ADA). It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities and duties required by the employee. Other duties are assigned as required.

What We Offer

RK&K offers excellent potential for career advancement and professional growth. We also offer attractive compensation packages commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances
• Matching 401(k) plan
• Paid Holidays
• Much, much more!

Why RK&K?

As a full-service engineering and construction management firm, RK&K gives you the opportunity to directly impact the communities in which we live and work. What sets RK&K apart is an award-winning culture that has fostered a spirit of collaboration and trust for over 100 years. To its clients, the firm delivers concepts, processes, and outcomes that are designed for success. RK&K has earned its reputation as a trusted partner, responsive employer, and community steward.

Design your career at RK&K, Apply Today!