Project Scientist II

RK&K is seeking a Project Scientist II to support environmental consulting projects in our Roanoke, VA office. The role involves contributing to a variety of infrastructure and development projects (transportation, utilities, water resources), with a focus on regulatory coordination, fieldwork, and technical documentation. Candidates should have 8+ years of experience and a solid understanding of Virginia and federal environmental regulations.

Essential Function

• Support permitting efforts with agencies such as U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Virginia Marine Resources Commission (MRC).
• Coordinate with federal and state regulatory agencies such as United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), Viriginia Department of Conservation Recreation (DCR) and Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR).
• Assist with preparation and review of 401/404 permit applications, environmental documentation for state and federal approvals, VDOT environmental forms and reports.
• Support fieldwork related to wetland and stream delineations, threatened and endangered species habitat assessments and surveys, Resource Protection Area (RPA) evaluations, environmental compliance monitoring, state waters and jurisdictional determinations.
• Assist senior staff with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance and contribute to environmental documents such as Categorical Exclusions (CEs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), Biological Assessments (BAs)
• Conduct technical writing for reports, impact analyses, and agency coordination letters
• Coordinate with internal teams (engineering, water resources, cultural resources) to integrate environmental considerations
• Track and manage task deliverables across multiple active projects
• Perform internal QA/QC on reports and permit submissions
• Assist in proposal development and client presentations

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Biology, Forestry, Environmental Policy, or related field
• Minimum of 8 years of environmental consulting or related experience
• Solid understanding of federal and state environmental regulations (NEPA, Clean Water Act, ESA, etc.)
• Experience with environmental permitting, especially within Virginia

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB,) American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Professional Engineer (PE), DEQ Erosion and Sediment Control Inspector or similar credentials
• Graduate degree in related field a plus

Other Duties

This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under ADA) expected. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities and duties required by the employee. Other duties are assigned as required.

What We Offer

RK&K proudly offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Paid Time Off,
• Tuition reimbursement
• Company health, dental, vision, life and disability insurances
• 401K plan with company matching
• We also offer flexibility and growth within a diverse and equitable, non-bureaucratic environment

Why RK&K?

RK&K is a full-service planning, engineering, environmental and construction management/inspection firm serving a wide range of clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern United States. Fueled by a talented and diversified staff, RK&K provides creative solutions to complex challenges that improve the quality of life in our communities. What sets RK&K apart is an award-winning culture that has fostered a spirit of collaboration and trust for 100 years. To its clients, the firm delivers concepts, processes and outcomes that are designed for success. RK&K has earned its reputation as a trusted partner, responsive employer and community steward.

Design your career at RK&K, Apply Today!