Project Manager I - Ecological Restoration

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.

We are looking for a Project Manager I to join our growing team in our Grimes, IA office. This is an entry-level role ideal for someone with technical know-how and a passion for seeing projects through from concept to completion. You’ll work alongside industry experts and local partners to help deliver regulatory-driven restoration projects that support both ecological and economic goals. 

You’ll be based out of one of our regional offices or project hubs, working with multi-disciplinary teams that include scientists, engineers, construction professionals, and subcontractors. Some fieldwork and travel (typically 25–50%) will be required depending on your location and the stage of your projects.

Why You’ll Love This Job

• You’ll lead high-impact ecological projects that drive measurable change

• You’ll gain autonomy while being backed by a supportive, mission-driven team

• You’ll help shape how projects are delivered by applying RES Best Management Practices

• You’ll work in a collaborative environment that values problem-solving and innovation

• You’ll see your projects evolve from concept to field implementation—and feel the difference you’re making

The Mission: The Project Manager I will be responsible for the day-to-day coordination and/or oversight of each project and will report project progress, issues, concerns, to their supervisor. It is expected that the PM I will be able to attend site meetings and coordinate with the onsite inspectors, visitors, and other parties associated with the project as a part of their daily duties. Should project issues arise the PM will coordinate for guidance and issue resolutions.

A Day in the Life

• Complete work in the field, which includes all aspects of restoration work such as overseeing subcontractors to meet project specifications, GPS survey, running a laser level, confirming completion of subcontractors’ work. Most importantly, it requires a thorough understanding of what the job entails as communicated verbally and through plans and specifications.
• Direct coordination with their supervisor.
• Communication with customer, designer, engineer, owner and general contractor regarding project status, schedules, and other needs.
• Site visits on a regular basis (which includes taking photographs and coordinating with the Subcontractors).
• Project and job books (creation and upkeep) of office and field copies.
• Maintaining a construction & maintenance daily log for the job (this includes note taking and getting signatures for any onsite changes made in a contract).
• Setting up P.O’s & Account payable approvals.
• Setting up Credit Applications with Accounts Payable on all new vendor accounts.
• Materials ordering and staging (as per bid, or in coordination with the Site Superintendent).
• Timesheet review – Coordinate approvals through construction operations and the delivery of Truck & Equipment weekly reports with construction operations.
• Project Submittals.
• Inspector interactions (e.g., measuring quantities, alerting PM to needs for Change Order, interacting with site visitors).
• Subcontractor coordination (scheduling, scope, etc.)
• Assist field operations with vegetation restoration tasks such as: seeding, mowing, burning, brushing and herbicide applications.
• Safety inspections.
• Other AE divisional and inter-divisional coordination.

• Helping generate project budgets
• Make sure that assigned projects are completed on schedule
• Assisting with monthly Invoicing, including quantity tracking
• Assisting with private and public sector estimating, bids, and proposal writing as assigned
• Coordinate with construction operations and estimating
• Promoting the RES brand through successful completion and delivery of quality projects

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of your job duties.

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

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in applied sciences, engineering, or similar field.
• 2+ years of progressive experience in an applied-sciences, engineering, or construction field.
• Valid Driver’s license.
• Ability to travel from home location up to 75% of the time.
• Ability to work independently with minimal direct supervision.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
• Ability to read and understand construction plans and specifications.

You will thrive in this position if you:

• Knowledge of wetland restoration design and construction.
• 1+ years experience in an applied-sciences, engineering, or construction field.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written, strong attention to detail, and ability to work well in a team environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office software, Trimble, GIS and CAD.

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.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor

RES is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.