Application Guide

How to Apply for Environmental Permitting Specialist/Natural Resource Scientist

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM stands out as a global infrastructure consulting firm that prioritizes sustainable development and innovative environmental solutions. Working here means contributing to projects that shape communities while addressing climate challenges, particularly appealing for those passionate about balancing infrastructure needs with environmental stewardship in the Northeast region.

About This Role

This role involves preparing permit applications for Massachusetts environmental regulations (Wetland Protection Act, USACE 404/10, 401 WQC) and supporting energy and infrastructure projects. You'll conduct wetland/wildlife field ecology work and collaborate with the Northeast Environmental Planning & Permitting Department, making direct impact on renewable energy and infrastructure development while ensuring regulatory compliance.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve morning wetland delineation fieldwork at a Massachusetts project site, followed by afternoon permit application preparation for a renewable energy project, with coordination calls between USACE regulators, project engineers, and AECOM's Northeast permitting team to ensure compliance and project advancement.

🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Has specific experience preparing Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act (310 CMR 10:00) and USACE 404/10 permit applications, not just general environmental permitting knowledge
  • Can demonstrate hands-on wetland/wildlife field ecology experience in New England ecosystems
  • Shows working familiarity with MADEP Chapter 91 and MEPA processes beyond just basic awareness
  • Has supported energy projects (transmission, generation, renewables) or infrastructure programs in the Northeast

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Quantify your Massachusetts-specific permitting experience: list exact number of 310 CMR 10.00 applications prepared and types of projects

2

Include specific Massachusetts wetland types you've assessed (e.g., coastal plain ponds, red maple swamps) and wildlife species encountered

3

Mention any experience with AECOM's project types: electric transmission lines, renewable energy installations, or state infrastructure programs

4

Reference AECOM's 'Sustainable Legacies' strategy and how your work aligns with their infrastructure-environment balance approach

5

Highlight any Chelmsford/MA-specific project experience or knowledge of local conservation commissions

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Specific examples of Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act permit applications you've prepared (project types, outcomes)", 'Field ecology experience relevant to New England wetlands and wildlife species', "How you've supported energy or infrastructure projects while navigating environmental regulations", "Alignment with AECOM's sustainable infrastructure approach and interest in their Northeast projects"]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • AECOM's recent Northeast energy/infrastructure projects (check their project portfolio for transmission lines, renewables)
  • Their 'Sustainable Legacies' strategy and how environmental permitting supports it
  • Current Massachusetts environmental policy developments affecting 310 CMR 10.00 or Chapter 91
  • The Northeast Environmental Planning & Permitting Department's focus areas and team structure

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk through your process for preparing a 310 CMR 10.00 permit application from start to finish
2 Describe a challenging wetland delineation or wildlife assessment you conducted in Massachusetts
3 How have you coordinated with USACE and MADEP simultaneously on a project?
4 Discuss your experience with renewable energy project permitting in New England
5 How do you balance project timelines with thorough environmental compliance?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Vague statements about 'environmental permitting experience' without Massachusetts-specific examples
  • Listing general ecology experience without New England wetland/wildlife specifics
  • Failing to connect your skills to AECOM's project types (energy, infrastructure, federal projects)

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to AECOM!