Stream Macroinvertebrate Biologist - Job ID 81366

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 position exists to perform biological monitoring for the North Biological Monitoring Unit. This position will lead, organize, schedule, and coordinate the monitoring of rivers and streams in Minnesota by sampling macroinvertebrates, fish, water chemistry, and habitat. The incumbent uses the monitoring data to determine if the waterbody supports aquatic life with the primary focus being the assessment of macroinvertebrate community data. The position will also lead the development of watershed reports and lead seasonal staff in the field.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in water resources, environmental science, or related science field; OR 

Two (2) years of experience in water resources or environmental sciences, 

AND 

Basic computer and database skills. 

Ability to pass the MPCA macroinvertebrate life history test. 

Good communication and human relations skills to interact effectively with stakeholders and team members. 

Ability to take direction, follow standard operating procedures, and independently complete assignments in a timely manner. 

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

Field experience sampling, macroinvertebrates and fish in rivers and streams using MPCA standard operating procedures. 

Course work in aquatic macroinvertebrate biology, ichthyology, fisheries science, water chemistry or habitat. 

Familiarity with biological indicators of water quality. 

Experience with statistical packages and graphics. 

Experience and/or course work using Survey123, GIS, and GPS equipment and software. 

Ability to manage multiple projects at different levels of complexity. 

Knowledge of the environmental regulatory process or state and federal rules and regulations applicable to water quality Lead or Leadership experience in prior work, civic, or school projects. 

Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with representatives of other government agencies and regulate parties.

Physical Requirements

Must be physically able to perform field work associated with monitoring projects. This may include loading/unloading vehicles and boats with field equipment, carrying equipment to sites, launching boats, or portaging canoes. Frequently may need to lift and carry approximately 50 pounds in the water or over land. Capable of moderate physical exertion in summer heat and sun.

Additional Requirements

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 weight 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.