Environmental Scientist

Freese and Nichols is seeking an Environmental Scientist in Lafayette, LA, to lead environmental research projects, conduct data analyses, and mentor other scientists. Responsibilities include technical studies, permit management, compliance oversight, and project support. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, 3+ years of experience, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and GIS software. The company values continuous learning and quality service.
Freese and Nichols is looking for an Environmental Scientist to join our Louisiana team. In this role, the successful candidate will lead environmental research projects and provide technical expertise, conduct complex data analyses, develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges, mentor other scientists, and ensure project deliverables meet quality standards. The role also includes the following specific responsibilities:
• Conduct either independently or as part of a team, technical environmental studies and formulate results in a concise, well-written document. Proceed with analysis and report preparation with guidance and final review by the Group Manager.
• Perform field evaluations, detailed environmental evaluations, check environmental computations done by others, and coordinate environmental evaluations.
• Manage and oversee the development, submittal, processing, and approval of permits (i.e., Coastal Use Permits, Joint Permit Applications, Section 10/404 Permits, and related permits).
• Coordinate permit application submittal activities and monitor status of permit applications. Coordinate with state and federal agencies, including LDENR, LDEQ, CPRA, SHPO, USACE, FEMA/FEMA Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP), USFWS, NOAA, and other relevant regulatory agencies.
• Ensure compliance with applicable state, federal, and local codes, laws, rules, regulations, specifications, standards, policies, and procedures (National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, Magnuson-Stevens Act, National Historic Preservation Act, Clean Water Act, Coastal Zone Management Act, etc.) related to permit applications and infrastructure improvement projects.
• Research information on wetlands, endangered species, cultural resources, water quality, etc.
• Prepare reports, maps, work plans, presentations, and correspondence.
• Assist Group Manager or Project Manager in estimating environmental study costs. Maintain an awareness of project budgets and endeavor to complete assignments with the budget.
• Draft proposals and statements of qualifications within the directives of company policy relating to marketing.
• Assist the Project Manager in the development and execution of assigned projects and assume various tasks necessary for project completion.
• May serve as Project Manager for small projects.

Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, hydrology, natural resources management, or a closely related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• 3+ years of experience.
• Ability to utilize software including Microsoft Office products.
• Demonstrated experience with GIS and ability to utilize ESRI ArcGIS or compatible GIS software.

About Freese and Nichols

At the heart of our culture is our LEADS values (Learn continuously, Engage as family, Act with integrity, Deliver quality, and Serve always). Each year, our employee engagement survey confirms that our leaders and our employees live our values.

We strive to be the firm of choice for clients and employees through innovative approaches, practical results, and outstanding service. For more than 130 years, we have been planning and designing the infrastructure our communities need: developing water supplies, designing roadways and bridges, preparing for natural disasters, and much more.

Besides our comprehensive benefits package (see more at

https://www.freese.com/services/benefits-that-work/

), we offer paid overtime for salaried employees, an annual bonus, and access to company cabins in Red River, New Mexico. We are proud of our flexible work environment which includes a hybrid schedule with up to 40% of remote work, and an alternative work schedule program which provides a day off every other Friday.

Join our team of 1,300+ employees as we grow from Virginia to Colorado. Learn more about working here at

https://www.freese.com/careers/

.

Freese and Nichols is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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