Scientist II (Ecologist)

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.

This position is based in our Orlando, FL office, and the selected candidate is expected to work from the office occasionally and the surrounding Orlando area as needed.  Approximately 60-70% of your time will be spent in the field, supporting projects across Central Florida. Occasional out-of-town travel may be required for project support across Florida, though this is expected to be limited. 

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:

You’ll begin your day prepping field gear for a monitoring visit to a stream or wetland mitigation site. Once on-site, you may collect data using GPS, YSI meters, or turbidity sensors, following project-specific protocols and QA/QC standards. You’ll help guide junior team members, ensure field datasheets are accurate, and troubleshoot equipment as needed.

Back at the office, you’ll enter and analyze field data, draft sections of monitoring reports, and interpret site plans or planting palettes. You might meet with design or regulatory teammates to discuss crediting metrics, or help evaluate a site’s feasibility based on regulatory or ecological constraints. You’ll balance independent work with collaborative efforts to move restoration 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 SOPs
• Skilled in data analysis and technical report writing
• Strong knowledge in one scientific discipline (e.g., hydrology, soils, stream morphology), 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

What will make you stand out:

• ArcGIS experience or certification
• Jurisdictional wetland delineation experience
• Drone pilot certification
• Experience with functional assessment methodologies (e.g., HGM, BEHI)
• Experience using and maintaining field equipment (e.g., YSI multimeters, turbidimeters)
• FWC Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent
• Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) Certification
• Experience with listed species surveys and relocations.

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.

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.