Entry-Level Environmental Scientist (Full-time) Melbourne FL

Applied Ecology Ltd is seeking an Entry-Level Environmental Scientist in Melbourne, FL. The role involves conducting fieldwork and research on environmental issues, focusing on water resources and ecological studies. Candidates should have a relevant degree, enjoy a mix of office and fieldwork, and possess strong communication skills. Responsibilities include data collection, analysis, and assisting senior staff with technical tasks. Fieldwork experience is preferred.
About the position

Applied Ecology, Inc. (AEI), a small environmental consulting firm with a rapidly expanding footprint, is seeking a highly motivated and capable Entry-level Environmental Scientist to join our growing team. AEI operates three offices in Florida and is recognized as a regional leader in water resources, ecological and natural resources, geospatial, and environmental remediation and compliance services. As a small business, we engage in diverse and challenging environmental projects that require innovative approaches and out-of-the-box solutions. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about conducting research to solve real-world environmental problems while learning from a highly qualified team of scientists and engineers. The role of an Environmental Scientist at AEI involves applying knowledge of natural resources to design studies, conduct research, and recommend policy and program solutions for environmental issues. The ideal candidate will enjoy a mixture of office and fieldwork, thriving in a high-energy environment while working on diverse projects that span uplands, wetlands, and coastal systems. Candidates must possess a minimum of four years of completed college education in a relevant field and be willing to perform fieldwork in various upland, wetland, and in-water conditions. Knowledge of Florida's ecology, a strong interest in managing water resources, and excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. The candidate should be a problem solver who takes pride in their work, can work independently, and knows when and how to communicate effectively with the team.

Responsibilities
• Conduct field work such as surface, stormwater, and groundwater sampling, soil and sediment sampling, and other environmental monitoring including vegetation and habitat data collection, listed species surveys, submerged aquatic vegetation surveys.
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• Follow precise standard protocols for quality assurance and safety.
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• Collect elevation and location data of various assets and structures to measure erosion and accretion processes, sea level rise impacts, and increased flooding as part of coastal resiliency planning and vulnerability assessments.
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• Complete accurate field logs and ensure appropriate chain of custody of field samples.
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• Complete accurate data entry for extensive environmental datasets, quality assure field notes, laboratory results, and other important datasets.
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• Perform statistical analysis and complete technical reports.
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• Develop support materials for presentations under senior staff guidance.
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• Assist with organizing, maintaining and calibrating field equipment, including autosamplers and sensors.
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• Support mid and senior level staff in developing complex technical tasks, reports, sampling plans, and proposals.
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• Assist with permit application packages, as requested by senior staff.

Requirements
• B.S. or B.A degree in environmental science, ecology, biology, oceanography, geology, or similar science or engineering field.
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• One year of environmental fieldwork experience, environmental or natural resources monitoring, or field research with data collection.
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• Knowledge in water resources, hydrology, ecology, biology, or other environmental sciences.
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• Knowledge of environmental issues in Florida.
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• Strong oral and written communication skills, including technical writing.
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• Ability to perform data analysis and interpret results.
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• Ability to perform field work in various types of weather and carry equipment through rough and uneven terrain, woodlands, vegetation, and water.
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• Ability to swim and snorkel.
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• Must be able to lift 40 pounds.
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• Ability and willingness to learn and follow precise protocols for field data collection.
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• Possess data integrity and strive for excellence in work products.
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• Must be able to travel locally and out of area when necessary.
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• A valid Florida Driver's license is required, and a clean driving record must be maintained.
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• Must be able to pass drug testing and a background check.
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• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office products is a must.
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• Ability to work on DOD contracts (US citizenship required).

Nice-to-haves
• MS/MA preferred
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• Experience with environmental sampling of surface and groundwaters and soils and sediments
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• Macro-invertebrate or SAV survey experience
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• Experience with wetland delineations or assessments
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• Experience with listed species surveys, such as gopher tortoise surveys or others
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• Experience with advanced water quality instrumentation and technical equipment
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• Experience with GIS
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• Scuba certified
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• Benthic or coral assessment experience
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• Florida Boater Safety Certified and/or experience with handling small watercraft

Benefits
• 401(k)
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• 401(k) matching
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• Dental insurance
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• Flexible schedule
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• Flexible spending account
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• Health insurance
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• Life insurance
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• Paid time off
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• Retirement plan
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• Vision insurance