Job ID 87041 - Hydrologist

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

This posting will be used to fill a limited Hydrologist 3 vacancy. The position has a projected end date of June 2027.

As a Hydrologist at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), you will conduct comprehensive and thorough advanced hydrologic and hydrogeologic evaluation and review associated with new and existing industrial facilities that are undergoing permitting and/or environmental review. The position develops program policies and technical guidance documents to ensure effective groundwater and surface water protection. The incumbent will provide statewide industrial by-product and wastewater irrigation program oversight including internal and external training. This position performs duties associated with writing various industrial National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System and State Disposal System permit conditions and attends public meetings when required. The incumbent maintains a thorough knowledge of state and federal rules and science related to water resource management for industrial facilities.

Minimum Qualifications

The incumbent is required to possess advanced working knowledge of groundwater hydrology and soil science with skills and abilities necessary to provide hydrologic and hydrogeologic evaluation and review of industrial facilities.

A Bachelor's degree in one of the following areas, or closely related equivalent: Hydrology, Soil Science/Agronomy, Geology, Hydrogeology or related degree WITH (3) three years of professional experience as a Hydrologist or equivalent. Experience must include the development and/or technical review of hydrologic and hydrogeologic reports and evaluations. 

AND

Demonstrated ability to conduct and review soil and hydrological field investigations. Good communication, problem solving, and negotiation skills.

Possess a valid Driver's license (see additional requirements).

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Preferred Qualifications

Considerable knowledge of agronomy, crop production, soil science, hydrology, and related scientific fields.

Knowledge of State and Federal laws and rules related to the Clean Water Act and the NPDES/SDS program. 

Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Ability to analyze complex technical data and reports and to develop sound technical recommendations.

Ability to effectively represent the MPCA before a variety of groups relative to social, economic, and environmental issues.

Familiarity with the MPCA’s Tempo database system.

Ability to cooperate and coordinate with officials of other Agencies and other governmental entities.

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally lifting and/or carrying such articles as file folders, ledgers, and small equipment. Although a sedentary job is defined as one which involves sitting, a certain amount of walking and standing is often necessary in carrying out job duties.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of the following:

A driver’s license is an essential function of this position. This requires possession of an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License. The job offer is contingent on confirmation of a valid driver’s license AND a satisfactory driver’s license record check. Requires a Class D driver's license: a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 26,000 pounds. This is a basic driver's license. Operators may also tow vehicles/trailers as long as the gross combination does not exceed 26,000 pounds.

About Pollution Control Agency 

Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions.