Ecological Restoration Analyst

Position Overview

Unique opportunity for a self-driven, passionate individual to join experienced team of professionals. Beaver Creek Hydrology is seeking an experienced Ecologist / Restoration Analyst with strong GIS capabilities to support the planning and development of stream and wetland restoration and compensatory mitigation projects throughout Kentucky and Tennessee. This position is an ideal opportunity to diversify restoration skills, perfect for an ecologist who enjoys combining field ecology, watershed analysis, and geospatial tools. The Ecological Restoration Analyst will identify restoration opportunities and support the development of large-scale mitigation projects. The role involves evaluating watershed conditions, conducting ecological assessments, and supporting restoration design and regulatory documentation. The selected candidate will work alongside engineers, geomorphologists, and GIS specialists on projects ranging from site screening and mitigation project development to restoration planning and long-term ecological monitoring.

Why Join Beaver Creek Hydrology

Beaver Creek Hydrology specializes in stream and wetland restoration and compensatory mitigation projects throughout Kentucky and Tennessee. Our team works on projects that restore ecological function, improve watershed health, and protect large areas of riparian habitat under permanent conservation easements. Team members have the opportunity to work on large-scale restoration and mitigation project development, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute directly to projects from initial site evaluation through implementation and monitoring. We are a small team doing big projects! If your qualifications do not align fully with the requirements, you’re encouraged to reach out and inquire about fit.

Key Responsibilities

Ecological & Watershed Assessment

• Conduct stream, wetland, and riparian ecological assessments, including habitat evaluations, vegetation surveys, and geomorphic observations.
• Evaluate watershed conditions and identify restoration opportunities within stream corridors and floodplains.
• Document baseline ecological conditions to support mitigation banking instruments, restoration plans, and permit applications.
• Contribute to development of ecological performance standards and monitoring strategies.

GIS & Spatial Analysis

• Use ArcGIS Pro to analyze watershed characteristics, stream networks, land use, floodplains, and potential restoration sites.
• Perform spatial analyses including watershed delineation, terrain analysis, corridor mapping, and parcel evaluation.
• Process and interpret LiDAR-derived terrain data, aerial imagery, and hydrologic datasets.
• Produce high-quality maps and figures for regulatory submittals, restoration plans, and technical reports.

Restoration Project Development

• Assist with mitigation project site screening and feasibility analysis.
• Integrate field observations with GIS analysis to help develop restoration strategies and design concepts.
• Support preparation of mitigation banking instruments, restoration plans, and monitoring reports.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams supporting restoration design, permitting, and project implementation.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, Hydrology, Natural Resources, or related field
• 2 years of professional experience in ecological consulting, restoration, or watershed management
• Strong experience with ArcGIS Pro and geospatial analysis
• Experience conducting stream, wetland, or riparian ecological assessments
• Understanding of watershed processes, stream geomorphology, and riparian ecology
• Experience collecting and managing GPS field data, including ArcGIS Online, Field Maps, or Survey123
• Ability to conduct periodic fieldwork in varied terrain and weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with stream restoration or compensatory mitigation projects
• Familiarity with mitigation bank instruments and restoration plans
• Experience analyzing LiDAR, DEMs, and terrain models
• Experience with Python, R, or GIS workflow automation
• Knowledge of native riparian vegetation and habitat restoration techniques

Benefits

Base Salary starting at $60,000, negotiable based on experience. In addition to base salary, position includes:

• Full coverage healthcare including dental and vision, including employer HSA funding
• 3% 401k match
• Robust PTO/Vacation plan
• Continuing education or professional development stipend