Lead Aquatic Resource Ecologist - Arid West

Environmental Consulting & Technology, Inc. (ECT) is seeking a motivated and experienced Lead Aquatic Resource Ecologist to join our growing team in ECT’s West Region. This role offers the chance to do meaningful fieldwork right where it matters most—so we’re looking for someone who already calls this region home and has the expertise to help our team grow.  It's a unique chance to combine your technical expertise with leadership skills, while contributing to thoughtful, science-driven projects involving aquatic resources, wildlife, and other environmental resources.  

In this role, you’ll take the lead on aquatic resource delineations, habitat assessments, botanical surveys, and threatened and endangered species-specific surveys while guiding field teams and collaborating closely with project managers. You’ll play a key part in helping clients balance development with environmental protection, bringing science, strategy, and teamwork together to deliver successful outcomes.

This position is ideal for someone who thrives outdoors, enjoys mentoring others, and is looking to grow their career in a collaborative and dynamic consulting environment.

What you'll do:

• Lead field teams in aquatic resource delineations, functional assessments, habitat evaluations, botany studies, and nest surveys using both state and federal methodologies.
• Apply technical expertise in plant identification, soils, and hydrology to assess Arid West hydrologic systems and natural resources.
• Work directly with agencies by applying your experience with state and federal reviews.
• Support project managers with reporting, permitting documentation, data analysis, and National Environmental Policy Act-driven assessments.
• Oversee project logistics, including field staff coordination, scheduling, budgets, and deliverables.
• Contribute to growth, while learning how to support proposal and budget development.
• Stay current on environmental regulations and build positive relationships with regulatory agencies.
• Promote safety and professionalism in both office and field environments.

What we're looking for:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field.
• 3–7 years of professional experience in aquatic resource delineation, wildlife/botanical surveys, and/or environmental permitting.
• Strong aquatic resource delineation skills, including plant identification, soils, and hydrology; familiar with federal delineation methodology, primarily in the Arid West Region; and demonstrated experience with agency reviews (e.g., Sections 401 and 404 of the Clean Water Act).
• Understanding and recent application of field survey methodologies and data forms to support studies, permitting, and monitoring efforts.
• Familiarity using field-based technology, such as GPS units, tablets, and mobile data collection platforms (e.g., Survey123, Field Maps), with the ability to collect and manage data digitally in the field.
• Strong technical writing skills and experience with QA/QC of reports and data.
• Previous consulting experience preferred, energy project experience a plus.
• Familiarity with state and federal permitting processes.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Willingness to travel (including overnight) for fieldwork as needed.

Why ECT?

At ECT, you’ll be part of a diverse team of scientists, ecologists, and environmental professionals who share a commitment to protecting natural resources while supporting responsible growth. What makes this opportunity even more rewarding is the chance to protect and enhance the very landscapes where you live and work. From aquatic resources and wildlife habitats to responsible project development across the Southwest and beyond, your efforts will have a lasting, local impact.

We offer:

• Meaningful work on projects that directly impact conservation and sustainability.
• Career growth opportunities through training, mentorship, and diverse project exposure.
• A collaborative culture where your expertise and leadership are valued.
• Flexibility, balance, and professional support in both office and field settings.
• Competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Environmental Consulting & Technology, Inc. (ECT) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.  All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, business needs, and other lawful criteria.  This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.