Scientist II

At RES, we’re looking for purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about restoration and sustainability, and who want their work to make a lasting environmental impact. Our team members go above and beyond, bringing initiative, integrity, and a strong work ethic to every project. Collaboration is key-we thrive on teamwork, open communication, and diverse perspectives. In a field that constantly changes, we value those who are resilient, adaptable, and resourceful in the face of challenges. If you're intellectually curious, eager to learn, and ready to help restore ecosystems and protect natural resources, you’ll find your place here.

RES is looking for a Scientist II to join our team.

As a Scientist II at RES, you will support the implementation, monitoring, and success of ecological restoration projects across diverse ecosystems. This is a mid-level field and data-focused role that combines fieldwork, technical reporting, and cross-functional coordination to support permitting and compliance documentation. You will collect and manage data, contribute to project reporting, and bring applied knowledge of restoration science to project execution.

Watch the projects our scientists work on here.

The position also includes an in-house assignment with the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Planning and Environmental Management Office, supporting one of RES Florida’s longest-standing and most valued clients. In this role, you will review transportation projects for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other federal and state environmental policies. Responsibilities will include evaluating the social, cultural, natural, and physical environment; developing avoidance and minimization strategies; identifying the need for additional environmental studies; and documenting project compliance. Additional responsibilities may include wetland and protected-species field reviews, environmental database development and management, environmental permitting support, technical reporting, and other environmental tasks.

Why You’ll Love This Job:

• You’ll get your boots dirty-literally. You’ll spend meaningful time in the field, collecting the data that drives real-world ecological restoration.
• You’ll see the impact of your work. Your efforts support the restoration of wetlands, streams, and habitats that improve ecosystems and communities across the region.
• You’ll learn from the best. With the support of senior scientists and cross-functional project teams, you’ll continue to grow your expertise in restoration science and applied ecology.

What your day-to-day might look like:

For days in the field, you’ll begin your day prepping field gear for a site visit to various settings such as a wetland mitigation site or protected species habitat. Once on-site, you may collect data following project-specific protocols and QA/QC standards. You’ll help complete field datasheets, making sure they are accurate, and troubleshoot equipment as needed.

Back at the office, you’ll enter and analyze field data, draft sections of reports, and interpret site plans or planting palettes. You might meet with design or regulatory teammates to discuss a site’s feasibility based on regulatory or ecological constraints. You’ll balance independent work with collaborative efforts to move projects forward.

We would like to talk to you if you have many of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, geology, or a related natural/physical science field
• 2+ years of experience in fieldwork, sampling, ecological monitoring, or technical writing (or 1+ year with an advanced degree)
• Proficient in field sampling protocols, GPS/GIS tools, and equipment use
• Experienced in collecting field data independently and following Standard Operating Procedures
• Skilled in data analysis and technical report writing
• Strong knowledge in one scientific discipline (e.g., wetland ecology, wildlife biology), with working knowledge in others
• Comfortable evaluating site conditions and regulatory constraints
• Familiar with project task tracking and regulatory requirements
• Able to perform functional assessments and related calculations with minimal supervision
• Experience with the ecosystems and listed species of South Florida

What will make you stand out:

• ArcGIS experience or certification
• Drone pilot certification
• Experience with functional assessment methodologies (e.g., HGM, BEHI)
• Experience using and maintaining field equipment (e.g., YSI multimeters, turbidimeters)
• NEPA compliance and documentation experience
• Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent Permit

You Will Thrive in This Role If You:

• Are comfortable in the field and in the office-and enjoy a balance of both
• Can collect, organize, and interpret scientific data with care and accuracy
• Communicate effectively and take ownership of your tasks
• Can help guide junior field staff and contribute to team learning

Please note that the “Day in the Life” section is not intended to be an exhaustive list of job duties, but rather a representative snapshot of typical responsibilities and work experiences at RES.

RES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.