Grand River Solutions (GRS), based in Brighton, Michigan, stands as a premier environmental consulting firm dedicated to sustainable development and regulatory compliance. Specializing in water resources and wetland services, GRS helps clients navigate complex environmental regulations for projects across the United States. If you're seeking jobs at Grand River Solutions, you'll find a range of positions that blend fieldwork, technical analysis, and client collaboration in a dynamic industry.
The firm was established to address growing demands for expert environmental assessments in Michigan's development landscape. With a focus on practical solutions, GRS serves developers, municipalities, and private landowners, ensuring projects comply with federal and state laws. Careers here appeal to those passionate about ecology and engineering, offering hands-on experience in real-world environmental challenges.
Founded in 2008 by a team of seasoned wetland scientists and engineers, Grand River Solutions emerged from the need for reliable environmental consulting in the Great Lakes region. Named after the Grand River, Michigan's longest river, the company reflects its commitment to water-related expertise. Over the years, GRS has grown from a small local firm to a trusted partner for hundreds of projects, completing thousands of wetland delineations and permitting applications.
Key milestones include expanding services to stormwater design in 2012 and earning recognition from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for compliance excellence. By 2020, GRS had a team of over 20 professionals, emphasizing quality and innovation in environmental science. This history of steady growth makes it an attractive employer for long-term careers in environmental consulting.
Jobs at Grand River Solutions span technical, field, and managerial roles. Common positions include environmental scientist, who conducts wetland delineations and ecological assessments; water resources engineer, designing stormwater systems; field technician, performing site surveys; and project manager, overseeing client projects. For more on types of positions available, explore university job types, though GRS roles are specialized in applied environmental work.
Entry-level jobs suit recent graduates, while senior roles require leadership experience. The firm occasionally posts openings for GIS analysts and permitting specialists, reflecting their core services.
To qualify for jobs at Grand River Solutions, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, civil or environmental engineering, or a related field. For advanced positions like senior environmental scientist or engineer, a master's degree is preferred, often with coursework in hydrology, wetland ecology, or regulatory compliance.
Professional certifications such as Certified Wetland Scientist (CWS) from the Society of Wetland Scientists or Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) are highly valued. Engineers may need a Professional Engineer (PE) license in Michigan. These qualifications ensure professionals can handle the technical demands of delineations and permitting under laws like Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
Grand River Solutions emphasizes expertise in wetland science, stream assessment using methods like Michigan's MAST (Macroinvertebrate Assessment Survey Tool), and stormwater management compliant with Michigan's Part 31 rules. Roles involve researching site-specific ecology, modeling hydrology, and assessing impacts for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance.
Professionals must understand functional assessments, such as the Michigan Wetland Assessment Procedure (MIWAP), to evaluate wetland value. Knowledge of endangered species surveys and mitigation banking is crucial for project success in Michigan's regulated environments.
Employers at Grand River Solutions prefer candidates with 2-5 years of field experience in wetland delineation using the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual. Prior work with EGLE permitting, GPS data collection, and environmental impact reports is advantageous. Successful applicants often have experience managing multiple projects simultaneously and interfacing with regulatory agencies.
Grants or publications in journals like Wetlands are pluses, demonstrating research capability. Fieldwork in varied terrains, including urban and rural Michigan sites, prepares candidates for GRS's diverse portfolio.
Essential skills for Grand River Solutions jobs include proficiency in ArcGIS for mapping, data analysis with R or Excel, and technical report writing. Field competencies cover soil sampling, vegetation identification, and hydrology measurements. Regulatory knowledge of EGLE, USACE (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers), and EPA guidelines is non-negotiable.
Soft skills like problem-solving and attention to detail ensure accurate compliance documentation.
The application process for jobs at Grand River Solutions starts with checking their website's careers section or emailing resumes to careers@grsmi.com. Include a cover letter tailored to the role, highlighting relevant projects. Interviews involve technical discussions and a field demonstration.
Actionable tips:
Grand River Solutions commits to diversity through equal employment practices and recruitment from diverse talent pools. They partner with organizations like the Michigan Association of Environmental Professionals to reach underrepresented groups in STEM. Internal training on inclusion and flexible policies support work-life balance for all employees. GRS encourages women and minorities in field roles, aligning with broader efforts in environmental sciences.
In Brighton, Michigan, Grand River Solutions offers a supportive environment with flexible hours, hybrid remote options for desk work, and generous PTO. Field roles balance office analysis with outdoor time, promoting health. Team-building includes hikes along the Grand River and professional development days. The office features modern facilities, fostering collaboration among 20+ staff. Employees praise the family-like culture and opportunities for advancement.
Jobs at Grand River Solutions offer rewarding paths in environmental consulting. Ready to apply? Check higher ed jobs for similar opportunities, explore higher ed career advice, visit university jobs, or post a job if recruiting.
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