Sr. Ecologist/Sr. Environmental Scientist

Company Description

Dramby Environmental Consulting, Inc. (DEC) is a woman-owned small business headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, with satellite offices in Williamsburg, Virginia, Raleigh, North Carolina, Nashville, Tennessee, Atlanta, Georgia and Rockville, Maryland. Since 2008, DEC has been delivering high-quality environmental consulting services to both public and private sector clients nationwide. Our core services include environmental permit preparation and compliance, natural resource assessment, RTE species assessment, and NEPA documentation. DEC is committed to providing innovative, cost-effective solutions tailored to our clients' environmental needs, ensuring successful project outcomes while balancing environmental impacts.

Sr. Ecologist/Sr. Environmental Scientist – Virginia

We’re currently looking for a driven and experienced Sr. Ecologist/Sr. Environmental Scientist to join our team in Virginia. This role offers the opportunity to work independently while collaborating within a multidisciplinary group of environmental specialists. As a key team member, you’ll contribute to a variety of natural resource projects with a focus on wetlands and stream systems.

You should bring strong technical knowledge of wetland regulations and permitting processes, along with hands-on experience in conducting large-scale wetland delineations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead natural resource projects across multiple locations
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, acting as a technical point of contact
• Lead wetland delineations and stream assessments in accordance with federal and state guidelines
• Prepare and review environmental reports, assessments, and proposals
• Lead Clean Water Act Section 404/401 permitting efforts
• Supervise and mentor support staff during fieldwork and report preparation
• Provide technical guidance on regulatory requirements in North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland
• Perform on-site fieldwork in varying terrain and environmental conditions
• Analyze field data, develop GIS-based mapping products, and collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Serve as a senior technical resource for natural resource projects
• Participate in internal training programs and mentor junior team members

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, or a related field
• 3-8 years of relevant experience in wetlands and natural resource consulting
• Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) and VSWD certification preferred
• Strong background in wetland and stream delineations, particularly in the Southeast
• In-depth understanding of USACE and DEQ regulatory frameworks
• Experience with Endangered Species Act compliance and protected species surveys
• T/E certifications preferred
• Training or certification in NCWAM, NCSAM, and/or SWITC is a plus
• Proficient in GIS, Microsoft Office Suite, and environmental data analysis
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and capable of working independently or as part of a team

Physical and Work Environment Requirements:

• Capable of performing fieldwork, including lifting up to 50 pounds and working in varying outdoor conditions
• Comfortable navigating uneven terrain, confined spaces, and elevated areas
• Willing to work in environments where dust, mold, or other hazardous materials may be present (with proper PPE)
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Willingness to travel overnight

Our Commitment:

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal employment laws.

• As part of our hiring process, selected candidates must pass a background check, drug screening, and driving record verification. We participate in the E-Verify program to confirm employment eligibility in the U.S.

Salary:

Salary is commensurate with experience and certifications. Hiring range is $72,500 - $97,500.