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Landscape Architect/Ecological Restoration Designer - Entry Level (Hybrid)

Barr Engineering Co.
paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Michigan, Grand Rapids
3033 Orchard Vista Drive Southeast (Show on map)
May 12, 2025

Summary:

The person in this position will work on ecological analysis and design projects involving streams and wetlands plus other potential resources and natural features such as woodlands, lakes, shorelines, and sand dunes. Work will largely be completed to help clients address requirements under ecological regulations including local community zoning ordinances, Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (such as Parts 301, 303, 325, and 353), and the U.S. Clean Water Act (Part 404) through stream restoration (such as channel naturalizing, daylighting, and/or dam removal) and wetland restoration (such as re-establishing historically drained wetlands). The work will include characterizing environmental resources, performing impact and mitigation assessments, preparing design documents, and supporting project permitting, construction, and post-construction compliance monitoring.

Working as an individual or as part of a project team, assignments are expected to include site inspections and field data collection; stream characterization (including fluvial geomorphology analysis and use of the Michigan stream quantification tool [MiSQT]); supporting hydrologic assessments and water balances; performing resource impact analyses and mitigation strategy planning; preparation of design basis documentation; natural stream channel design; landscape and natural plant community design including stream and wetland restoration plans; surface water control and stormwater management design; preparation of plans and technical specifications; creation of erosion protection plans; construction observation; and reporting. Work will also include supporting project permitting and communicating with clients, permitting agencies, and public officials.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in landscape architecture, natural resource management, ecology, or other related degree from an accredited program

  • Michigan landscape architect license (or the ability to become licensed in Michigan within one year)

  • Professional experience in ecological design

  • Experience preparing construction plans including grading, planting plans, sections, and details

  • Experience writing technical specifications

  • Experience working and communicating with construction contractors and performing construction observation services

  • Proficiency with AutoCAD

  • Exceptional organizational skills

  • Self-driven and independently motivated to manage multiple tasks with a strong attention to detail with minimal guidance or direction

  • Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with project team members and clients

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, client-driven environment and to manage teams/commitments across many different clients and projects

  • A flexible working style and the ability to work with teams of specialists to meet project needs

  • Legal authorization to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship from Barr, now or in the future

  • Possession of a valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's or other advanced degree in landscape architecture, natural resource management, ecology, or other related degree from an accredited program

  • Advanced professional development training for wetland and/or stream restoration practices including natural stream channel design

  • 5+ years of professional experience in ecological design

  • Experience with green infrastructure design

  • Experience with sustainable landscape architectural practices

  • Experience conducting wetland impact assessments and restoration/wetland mitigation design, including identification and evaluation of potential restoration opportunities

  • Experience performing stream geomorphic surveys and field assessments

  • Experience conducting stream characterization, applying MiSQT to determine loss of functional feet, designing stream mitigation and calculating the functional lift achieved with the MiSQT, and preparing plans and specifications for stream restoration/mitigation construction

  • Experience performing vegetation surveys and ecological quality assessments, developing native seed mixes, and preparing ecological restoration plans

  • Planting design experience and knowledge of local planting techniques and species

  • Experience communicating with clients and advising on strategies to effectively navigate and meet environmental and ecological regulations

  • Experience negotiating with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) and other regulatory agencies (e.g., U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, local municipal officials, and consultants, etc.) on behalf of clients

  • Experience with post-construction monitoring to document compliance with EGLE wetland and/or stream permits and conservation easements typically associated with Part 303 (Wetlands Protection) and Part 301 (Inland Lakes & Streams) of the Michigan Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act 1994 PA 451, as amended (NREPA) and developing adaptive management plans as necessary to achieve client obligations.

  • Experience managing complex, multi-discipline projects

  • Experience with ArcGIS software

  • Proficiency with artistic rendering software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Acrobat, Illustrator, InDesign)

  • Experience in creating detailed and attractive renderings, section/elevations, and diagrams for client and public presentation

  • Experience developing EGLE wetland and/or stream permit applications typically associated with Part 303 (Wetlands Protection) and Part 301 (Inland Lakes & Streams) of NREPA, including project descriptions and alternatives analyses.

A hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of either of Barr's Grand Rapids or Ann Arbor, Michigan, offices.

Compensation:
The anticipated base salary range for this position is $65,000-$80,000/year. This position is classified as exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all its profit to our employees through our bonus plan and ESOP.

NOTE: Must be able to work in locations that feature rough terrain typical of construction and restoration sites and may also require entering and working in facilities that include limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities. An OSHA-mandated physical exam may be required. Safety training will be provided.

#LI-Hybrid

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

  • Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

  • Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

  • Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

  • Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

  • Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

  • Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our sucess.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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