Environmental Scientist I

ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Environmental Scientist, Senior
Environmental Scientist III
Environmental Scientist II

POSITION SUMMARY

This position is primarily responsible for field activities, environmental data analysis, data management, and quality assurance/quality control tasks. It is permanent, full-time, and requires the ability to make sound decisions under stress, to function independently or as part of a team, and to quickly learn and apply new skills. The environmental scientist significantly contributes to study planning efforts, preparation, and execution of field activities, as well as data management and analysis of large continuously generated data sets. The position requires frequent interaction and coordination with other regional and state entities. Problem-solving skills and attention to detail are paramount. Must complete Texas Boater Education Course within 6 months of hire date unless grandfathered in by law.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Plan, coordinate, and execute field studies with supervision. This may require significant effort regarding logistics and other preparations.

2. Maintain, calibrate, and oversee field equipment including boats, acoustic Doppler profilers, electrofishing gear, multiprobe instruments, and a variety of other scientific data collection tools.

3. Process and manage data produced in the field and laboratory, or acquired from third parties. This may include data entry, quality assurance, reporting, analysis, and formatting.

4. Work in conjunction with other cities, regional and state agencies in the completion of environmental field studies.

5. Create and maintain GIS databases as required.

6. Produce high-quality reports. This will require the use of spreadsheets, databases, word processors, and other computer applications.

7. Perform literature reviews and investigations regarding specific topics of interest.

WORK LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES
This position does not regularly provide work leadership or full personnel management to any employees.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
May help administer budgets for specific studies. Will be expected to make small purchases for equipment and supplies.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION
Bachelor’s degree, Natural Science or related field.

EXPERIENCE
Some experience in any combination of field-related activities, environmental data collection, and/or water quality monitoring is desired.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Valid Texas driver's license. GIS certification preferred.

KNOWLEDGE
This is a science-related job requiring specialized knowledge in natural aquatic systems and water quality. Must understand basic statistics and be able to use computer software to analyze data. Must have the ability to perform scientific studies.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Must be able to plan, prepare and execute field studies. This includes operating under adverse conditions. Expected to employ undergraduate-level of knowledge in real-world situations. Must be able to swim. The ability to operate boats under 20 feet in length is also desired.

GUIDANCE RECEIVED
Receives periodic supervision and uses guidelines/range of procedures. Follows periodic direct instructions and guidelines, uses policies and procedures that require some interpretation. Problems that cannot be addressed through an existing guideline, policy or procedure are referred to a supervisor or more senior position. Incumbent must exercise judgment about whether to escalate issues.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Frequent (estimated 25% of the time) fieldwork under adverse conditions including extreme heat or rain with exposure to potentially dangerous flora and fauna (snakes, poison ivy, etc.). Occasional exposure to treated effluent and water are known to exceed water quality limits for bacteria. Irregular work hours may be required. Working conditions will be variable and occasionally extend beyond normal business hours to include overnight stays.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
All manner of field equipment including data sounds, electrofishing gear, boats, etc. Science-oriented software such as spreadsheets, databases, statistical packages, and GIS.