What are the responsibilities and job description for the Wetland Scientist position at IVA Environmental Services?
About IVA Environmental Services
IVA Environmental Services is a specialized environmental consulting firm based in Southwest Florida, providing expert services in wetlands delineation, protected species surveys, permitting support, and environmental compliance. We support public and private sector clients through all stages of project development and environmental approvals.
Position Overview
IVA Environmental Services is seeking a motivated Wetland Scientist to perform fieldwork, delineations, technical reporting, and project coordination in support of environmental permitting and long-term land development approvals. The ideal candidate will have strong field skills, experience preparing technical documents, and the professionalism to collaborate directly with developers, engineers, and regulatory agencies.
Candidates with wetland delineation experience in other states are welcome to apply; however, familiarity with Florida ecosystems and vegetation—or a willingness to rapidly learn—is essential for success in this role.
This position includes fieldwork, technical reporting, permit preparation, project management support, and collaboration with business development efforts when environmental expertise is needed during client engagement.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct wetland delineations and prepare associated technical documentation
- Perform vegetation surveys, soil characterization, and hydrology assessments
- Prepare wetland reports, jurisdictional determinations, and permit applications (e.g., USACE, FDEP, local ERPs)
- Support and help manage projects through the environmental permitting and approval process, partnering closely with developers, engineers, and planners
- Provide expert testimony or professional representation before zoning boards, planning commissions, and in court proceedings as needed
- Assist the Business Development Manager as a technical resource in proposal preparation, client meetings, and project scoping discussions
- Utilize GIS platforms to support fieldwork and reporting (GIS experience is a plus, but not required)
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources, or a related field
- At least 3 years of professional experience conducting wetland delineations and preparing environmental documentation
- Strong working knowledge of wetland hydrology, soils, and vegetation
- Familiarity with federal and state permitting processes (Clean Water Act Section 404/401, FDEP ERP)
- Physical ability to work outdoors in varying field conditions
- Excellent technical writing, communication, and client engagement skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with Florida native and wetland plant species (preferred but not mandatory if willing to learn)
- Experience collaborating with clients, project teams, and regulatory agencies during long-term development projects
- Prior experience providing expert witness testimony or public presentations related to environmental projects
- Experience using GIS tools to support fieldwork and reporting (a plus)
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Performance bonus eligibility
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick Leave
- Company-sponsored professional development and training opportunities