Designer I
Summary
Entry-level Designer I on RES's ecological restoration design team in Pittsburgh. The role splits time between fieldwork (geomorphic surveys, site assessments, data collection) and office work editing maps and restoration design plans using CADD/GIS for stream and wetland projects, under the guidance of senior designers.
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 Designer I to join our restoration design team. This is an entry-level opportunity for someone interested in building a career in ecological restoration design while gaining hands-on experience in field assessment, geomorphic surveying, mapping, and design development.
In this role, you will work alongside experienced designers and technical professionals, supporting restoration projects from field data collection through development of maps, plans, and other design deliverables. You will learn RES design standards and processes while developing the technical foundation needed to progress into increasingly independent restoration design work.
Why you would love this job
You will get exposure to both the field and technical design sides of ecological restoration. Rather than spending all of your time behind a desk, you will have opportunities to participate in field assessments, understand real-world site conditions, and then see how that information translates into restoration designs.
This is also a strong opportunity for someone early in their career who wants to learn from experienced professionals, develop CADD and mapping capabilities, and build practical knowledge of stream and wetland restoration.
What your day to day will look like
Your work will vary depending on the project and phase of design. You may spend time in the field assisting with geomorphic surveys, ecological assessments, site reconnaissance, and data collection. Back in the office, you will help edit maps and design plans, interpret topographic and hydrologic information, organize field data, and support development of restoration design deliverables. You will work closely with more senior designers who will provide technical direction and feedback as you learn RES CADD, mapping, and design standards.
We would love to talk to you if you have many of the following
- Bachelor’s degree (Natural Science or a related discipline, or another degree combined with relevant field experience)
- Training or coursework related to streams, wetlands, hydrology, geomorphology, ecology, environmental science, or restoration.
- Exposure to stream or wetland field assessment.
- Basic experience with CADD, GIS, mapping, or similar design tools.
- Ability to interpret topographic maps and other site information.
- Ability and willingness to perform occasional outdoor fieldwork.
What will make you stand out
- Master’s degree in Natural Science or a related field.
- Previous stream or wetland field experience.
- Experience collecting geomorphic or ecological field data.
- Exposure to restoration, hydrology, environmental design, CADD, or GIS.
- Previous internship, research, or field experience involving natural systems.
You will thrive here if
- You are curious and eager to develop new technical skills.
- You pay close attention to details and take pride in producing accurate work.
- You are comfortable asking questions and incorporating feedback.
- You enjoy working as part of a collaborative technical team.
- You are dependable and follow through on assignments.
- You enjoy solving problems and understanding how things work.
- You are comfortable moving between field and office environments.
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.
Skills
As published by greenhouse · 13 questions
Basics
First Name, Last Name, Preferred First Name, Email, Phone, Resume/CV, Cover Letter
Short answers (5)
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- Are you currently located in or near the location posted for this job?
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