Lead Hydrologist

An emerging leader in environmental consulting, Environmental Solutions & Innovations, Inc. (ESI) seamlessly merges real-world field expertise, scientific acumen, and comprehensive knowledge of the regulatory framework to address client project permitting and approval needs. Our support of various industries and governmental agencies spans the biological sciences, archaeology, and civil engineering and ranges geographically across the U.S.

ESI seeks a full-time Lead Hydrologist to support the U.S. Forest Service on the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests in North Carolina. The position focuses on assessing, designing, and implementing disaster recovery, restoration, and resiliency projects in coordination with Forest Service staff, partners, and contractors.

Responsibilities

Field Work

• Assess stream channels, floodplains, soils, and landscapes affected by or vulnerable to natural disasters; identify restoration and resiliency needs.
• Lead watershed improvement implementation, from small grading projects to stream channel and floodplain restoration.
• Inspect construction as directed by the Forest Service; evaluate work against plans and specifications. 

Project Coordination

• Prepare or review restoration designs, cost estimates, special project specifications, and full or partial construction documents for projects of moderate complexity
• Coordinate with Forest Service staff, recovery partners, and contractors to review designs, implementation, and project schedules.
• Support project planning, surveying, scoping, permitting, contract preparation, and review of partner invoices and accomplishments

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree in hydrology, watershed science, a relevant discipline, or an education level equivalent to a master's degree in a relevant discipline.
• At least 5 years of technical work experience in forest hydrology and watershed management.
• At least 3 years of experience assessing, planning, and designing watershed improvement projects, preparing cost estimates, and writing special project specifications to meet defined objectives.
• Thorough understanding of field hydrology, stream rehabilitation design criteria, and methods for improving stream and riparian function.
• Thorough understanding of construction methods, materials, equipment, water quality protection practices, and quality assurance methods.
• Ability to interpret plans and specifications, identify construction deficiencies, and prepare clear technical documentation and progress reports.
• Proficiency with GIS data and Microsoft Word, Excel, and Adobe; ability to use a camera, computer, and appropriate software to complete assigned work.
• Valid driver's license and availability for frequent travel to project sites and coordination meetings.

Preferred Experience

• Disaster recovery and stream, floodplain, or watershed restoration projects on forested lands, particularly in the southern Appalachian region.
• Forest Service or other public agency projects involving partner coordination, construction inspection, accomplishment reporting, and financial monitoring.
• Environmental permitting and compliance support for restoration projects, including Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401 requirements.

Salary & Benefits

ESI has standardized and transparent pay ranges based upon education and experience. The anticipated base annual (2080 hours) salary pay range for the qualifications listed above is $85,000 to $100,000 per year.

We offer generous paid time off allowances, 100% employer-paid health/dental/vision insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and 401(k) with graduated match.

ESI provides ample opportunities for training and professional development, including direct mentorship by career Hydrologists and permitting experts. 

Individuals exceeding these qualifications are invited to apply and encouraged to submit a resume with salary requirements.

Location and Working Conditions

This position supports projects across the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests in western North Carolina and requires regular in-person fieldwork, construction site visits, and coordination with Forest Service staff and partners. All desk work can be conducted either remotely or potentially at a local office.

How to apply:

Please use the email subject “Lead Hydrologist” and send a resume to View email address on click.appcast.io

Environmental Solutions & Innovations, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. It provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.