What are the responsibilities and job description for the Environmental Scientist 3 position at RETTEW?
Description
Introduction
RETTEW is seeking a mid- to senior-level Environmental Scientist with a strong natural sciences background to support environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, and natural resource assessment projects. This role is ideal for a scientist who enjoys applying ecological and environmental expertise to support responsible development and infrastructure projects.
About RETTEW
RETTEW is a 100% employee-owned engineering consulting firm providing integrated environmental, planning, geotechnical, and infrastructure solutions. Our employee-owners collaborate across disciplines to help clients navigate complex regulatory environments while protecting natural resources and supporting sustainable growth.
Work Environment
Hybrid
Office Locations: Williamsport, Mechanicsburg, or State College, PA
Safety & Compliance Requirements
This position is designated as safety-sensitive and requires successful completion of all pre-employment screenings as a condition of employment. Responsibilities include operating company-owned vehicles and performing field-based work in active construction and utility environments. Continued compliance with RETTEW’s safety policies is required throughout employment.
What the Natural Sciences Team Does at RETTEW
RETTEW’s Natural Sciences team supports projects through environmental permitting, compliance, and natural resource evaluation, helping clients understand environmental constraints early and move projects forward responsibly. The team conducts field-based ecological and environmental studies, prepares permit applications and regulatory documentation, supports NEPA and environmental review processes, and works directly with regulatory agencies at the local, state, and federal levels.
This group plays a key role in identifying and minimizing impacts to wetlands, waterways, habitats, and other sensitive resources while balancing regulatory requirements with practical project solutions. The work spans a variety of markets, including transportation, land development, utilities, and energy projects.
Position Summary / What You’ll Do
The Environmental Scientist will lead and support natural resource investigations, environmental permitting, and regulatory compliance efforts. This role contributes directly to project planning and delivery by providing sound scientific analysis, clear documentation, and effective coordination with agencies, clients, and internal teams.
Responsibilities / Day-to-Day
- Conduct natural resource field studies, including wetland delineations, stream and waterway assessments, habitat evaluations, and ecological surveys
- Prepare and support environmental permit applications and approvals at the local, state, and federal levels
- Assist with NEPA documentation, environmental assessments, and impact analyses
- Prepare technical reports, permit narratives, and regulatory correspondence
- Interpret environmental data and apply natural science principles to support project planning and impact avoidance
- Coordinate with regulatory agencies, clients, and internal project teams
- Mentor junior staff and support quality control and technical review efforts
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources, or a closely related natural science discipline
- 5 years of experience in environmental consulting or applied environmental science
- Hands-on experience with natural resource fieldwork (wetlands, streams, habitats, or ecological assessments)
- Working knowledge of environmental permitting and regulatory compliance
- Strong technical writing, documentation, and communication skills
- Valid driver’s license and ability to perform field work
Preferred
- Experience with wetland and waterway permitting at the state and federal level
- Experience supporting NEPA reviews or environmental assessments
- Professional certifications (e.g., PWS, CEP, or similar)
- Experience coordinating directly with regulatory agencies
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation aligned with experience
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) — 100% employee-owned
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off
- Hybrid work environment supporting flexibility and collaboration
- Professional development, training, and career advancement opportunities
- A culture that values environmental stewardship, teamwork, and technical excellence
RETTEW is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
#LI-Hybrid
Requirements
Requirements Listed above