Wetland Ecologist

Are you experienced in natural resources and passionate about wetlands and waterways? Apply to be our next Wetland Ecologist (Natural Resource Specialist 3) October 21st, 2026! Our agency also has 2 (two) openings for Wetland and Waterway Permit and Enforcement Coordinators (REQ-207804). All are welcome to apply; current state employees are encouraged to apply to these positions as a job rotation by including written approval from their current supervisor.

This is a full-time, limited duration position expected to last through June 30, 2028, and there may be an opportunity to extend. This position is eligible for a hybrid remote schedule based out of our Salem office, with required in-office days the first week of employment and two (2) times per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) for the following four weeks, then 2-3 times per month for the duration of the position.  The successful candidate must be able to travel to site visits within Oregon on short notice and, within six months of hiring, live within commutable distance to the Salem office. 

What You Will Be Doing

As our Wetland Ecologist, you will have the opportunity to:

• Regulatory Interpretation. Provide interpretation and explain laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures for the public, consultants, and other agency partners.
• Agency Representation. Serve as a DSL representative for entities including the Governor’s Office Regional Solutions Teams, permit applicants, other agencies, members of the public, and industry professionals.
• Wetland Delineations. Review wetland delineation reports, including data, maps, and photographs to affirm boundaries of wetlands and waterways; identify data gaps or conduct on-site verification of reports as needed. Site visits and field data collection may be required prior to concurring with submitted reports.
• Jurisdictional Determinations. Conduct on and off-site jurisdictional determinations of wetlands and waterways. Clearly communicate and document findings to the public, local governments, and other professionals.
• Wetland Land Use Notices. Inform local governments and the public about requirements for wetland land use. Review Wetland Land Use Notices submitted by local governments.
• Internal Collaboration. Collaborate with the DSL’s permit and resource coordinators in the collection and interpretation of field data for use in investigations or enforcement actions.