Senior Natural Resources & Environmental Project Lead
Job Title
Senior Natural Resources & Environmental Project Lead
Company Overview
A forward‑thinking civil and environmental consulting firm-recognized as a 2025 Best Firm to Work For-is expanding its Water Resources team across the Greater Chicago Area. Known for blending innovation with a supportive, career‑focused culture, the firm offers meaningful long‑term growth opportunities for environmental professionals passionate about restoration, permitting, and natural resource stewardship.
Location
Greater Chicago Area (multiple office options with hybrid flexibility)
Role Summary
This position leads natural resources and environmental project work for municipal, county, and private‑sector clients. The role includes overseeing ecological assessments, wetland delineations, permitting activities, habitat and streambank restoration projects, and the natural‑resource components of engineering plans. You'll also guide staff, contribute to client relationships, and support department development.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead environmental assessments, ecological restoration plans, wetland restoration, streambank stabilization, and related natural‑resource services.
- Perform and oversee wetland delineations, permitting, and mitigation activities.
- Supervise scientists and restoration staff working on streambank design, detention basin retrofits, and natural area evaluations.
- Apply knowledge of stormwater BMP design, environmental assessments, and restoration best practices.
- Manage environmental deliverables within engineering plans, specifications, and project packages.
- Identify funding opportunities and support grant application efforts.
- Attend client and agency meetings; coordinate project needs and resolve technical questions.
- Support business development and client relationship growth.
- Assist with department standards, peer reviews, and quality improvement initiatives.
Required Background
- Bachelor's degree in an environmental or natural‑resources‑related field.
- Certification as a Professional Wetland Scientist (Illinois and/or Wisconsin).
- 10+ years of relevant experience preferred.
- Ability to manage multiple concurrent responsibilities independently.
- Strong written, verbal, organizational, and technical skills.
- Team‑oriented mindset with a focus on collaboration and shared success.
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary Range: $90,000 - $140,000
Benefits include:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Employee Assistance Program + dedicated advisor support
- Life and disability insurance, accident & cancer coverage, tax‑advantaged savings plans
- Generous PTO, paid holidays, parental leave, and flexible scheduling options
- Optional remote/hybrid work eligibility
- Industry‑leading 401(k) with advisory support
- Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
- Supportive, development‑focused culture built for career longevity
How to Apply
Submit your resume through the company's internal career portal or email the recruiting team with the subject line:
Senior Natural Resources & Environmental Project Lead - Greater Chicago Area
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
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