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Role Description

At Olsson, we help our clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes with ease. We ensure proactive compliance with key environmental laws, including the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). Projects span the U.S. and include transportation, energy, and other infrastructure projects that require compliance with the NHPA and the National Environmental Policy Act.

As the Principal Investigator you will plan, oversee, and support cultural resources investigations and overall responsibility for archaeological investigations. These investigations and coordination with federal agencies may be performed by Olsson’s staff archaeologists or through the use of subconsultants. The Principal Investigator will scope, plan, direct, and oversee this work. Additionally, this role emphasizes technical excellence, mentorship, regulatory expertise, and high‑level review of deliverables. The Principal Investigator provides strategic direction on environmental design, analysis, and compliance activities across the firm, with a focus on technical performance, innovation, and regulatory rigor.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a firmwide subject matter expert, providing internal and external leadership on cultural resources compliance.
• Provide strategic direction and consultation to project teams and clients on complex issues, regulatory pathways, and technical methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations, including NHPA, ARPA, and NEPA requirements. Plan, scope, prepare and review field investigations analyses, technical reports, and documentation.
• Maintain a strong external reputation as a technical leader, contributing to the profession through publications, conference presentations, and participation in scientific or regulatory working groups.
• Promote efficiencies and uphold quality standards, ensuring deliverables meet the highest levels of scientific rigor and regulatory defensibility.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, scientific partners, and industry organizations, to stay informed of evolving policies and opportunities for collaboration.
• Represent the firm in professional organizations, advisory committees, or regulatory forums to elevate both the environmental discipline and the firm’s visibility.
• Lead and manage projects from early planning through implementation, including scoping, technical strategy, budgeting, scheduling, and quality oversight.
• Mentor and develop staff, fostering technical growth, scientific excellence, and consistency across the firm.

Qualifications

• You are passionate about working collaboratively with others.
• You are passionate about having ownership in the work you do.
• You are passionate about using your talents to positively affect communities.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to contribute and work well on a team.
• Graduate degree (e.g., M.A, M.S, or Ph.D.) in archaeology, anthropology, or closely related field from an accredited institution.
• 12+ years of relevant post-education experience in Section 106/110 Compliance.
• Experience in cultural resource management in the Midwest or South.
• Experience in leading and mentoring others.
• Innovative and proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development, including participation in professional organizations.

Requirements

• Actual compensation will vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, geographic location, skills, education, and internal equity.
• Colorado Pay Range: $150,000 — $240,000 USD

Benefits

• Receive a competitive 401(k) match.
• Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths.
• Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements.
• Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities.
• Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles.
• Full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.