What are the responsibilities and job description for the Water Resources/Environmental Specialist position at Wright Water Engineers, Inc.?
As a Water Resources/Environmental Specialist at Wright Water Engineers, Inc. (WWE), you will collaborate with a dynamic team of engineers and scientists working on multi-disciplinary projects for clients that include governmental entities (local, tribal, state, and federal), private landowners, utility operators, commercial and institutional developers, and non-governmental organizations.
The successful candidate will use their problem-solving skills, critical thinking, passion for learning, and strong work ethic to thrive both independently and within project teams. Effective written and verbal communication skills combined with professional integrity are essential for contributing to a cohesive company culture and building trusting relationships with other employees, clients, and public agencies.
This full-time position will be based in our Denver office, working with our Environmental Services Team, which focuses primarily on wetland delineations, regulatory compliance, and stormwater management.
Expected responsibilities of the role include:
Wetland Delineation and Regulatory Support
- Wetland Delineations: Delineate wetland and non-wetland waters using the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) methodology.
- Regulatory Support: Evaluate Clean Water Act Section 404 (CWA 404) regulatory requirements and assist projects in obtaining necessary permissions and/or permits
Stormwater Management:
- Preparation of Stormwater Management Plans (SWMPs): Develop and implement SWMPs to effectively address pollution in stormwater runoff and manage the municipal review and resubmittal process for these SWMPs.
Environmental Planning: Assess proposed projects for potential impacts and determine whether floodplain, wetland, construction stormwater, and/or groundwater dewatering discharge permits may apply.
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Planning: Interacting with lead federal agencies and assisting clients with navigating NEPA requirements, including Categorical Exemptions, Environmental Assessments, and Environmental Impact Statements.
Client, Contractor, and Regulatory Engagement: Collaborate with clients, contractors, and internal teams to provide technical guidance, address concerns, and ensure project success. This role may also coordinate with regulatory agency staff.
Fieldwork: Most fieldwork will be conducted as day trips from the Denver office, with periodic opportunities for overnight travel as project demands arise.
Desired Qualifications and Competencies:
Interested applicants should have at least a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, or a similar degree and at least some professional experience. Post-graduate education, including professional training and internships, is desirable. Success in this role will require a high degree of professionalism, time management, clear communication, analytical thinking, accountability, and decision quality. The ability to receive and adapt to feedback will be important.
Compensation & Benefits
- Full-time position based in Denver office with a salary range of $70,000–$100,000 (commensurate with experience, education, and skills) plus a discretionary quarterly bonus program
- Comprehensive benefits package, including employer-paid health insurance plans, life insurance, and long-term disability
- Voluntary dental, vision, and more
- Retirement plan with a company match and profit-sharing, upon eligibility
- Additional perks such as flexible spending and dependent care accounts
- Career development opportunities in a dynamic and challenging work environment
About Us
Wright Water Engineers, Inc. (WWE) is a well-respected, employee-owned consulting engineering firm specializing in water resources, environmental, and civil engineering. Since 1961, we’ve partnered with clients across the U.S. on complex, multidisciplinary projects. With offices in Denver, Glenwood Springs, and Durango, Colorado, our team of engineers, biologists, chemists, geologists, hydrogeologists, hydrologists, and scientists is united by a shared dedication to excellence, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Learn more about us at www.wrightwater.com.
WWE provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and is a drug-free workplace. We encourage qualified female, minority, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Please send cover letter, resume, and references to Beth Knudsen, Chief Administrative Officer, at bknudsen@wrightwater.com with [Environmental Specialist] in the subject line.
Salary : $70,000 - $100,000