Water Monitoring Specialist Job ID 82949

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 a wide range of responsibilities in the Watershed Pollutant Load Monitoring Network within the Long-Term Surface Water Data Unit including river and stream monitoring field work, data management and analysis, support of local partners, and results communication in multiple formats. This position is full-time temporary with an expected end date of June 30, 2026. 

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Conservation, Biology, Chemistry, Limnology, Hydrology, Water Resources, or related field and 2 years of professional experience conducting professional-level environmental protection or pollution control experience that includes water quality monitoring with an understanding of the principles of limnology, hydrology, water quality standards, and surface water pollutants.

OR

Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Conservation, Biology, Chemistry, Limnology, Hydrology, Water Resources or related field and 1 year of professional experience conducting professional-level environmental protection or pollution control experience that includes water quality monitoring with an understanding of the principles of limnology, hydrology, water quality standards, and surface water pollutants.

OR

Three (3) years professional-level experience conducting professional-level environmental protection or pollution control experience that includes water quality monitoring with an understanding of the principles of limnology, hydrology, water quality standards, and surface water pollutants.

All candidates must have:

The ability to independently complete assignments in a timely manner, serve as a team member, and understand the economic and social impact of environmental decisions.

The ability to review stream water quality data.

Good communication, interpersonal and collaboration skills needed.

Sufficient planning/organization skills to perform senior-level professional work.

Working knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel.

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

Experience collecting water quality data, recording observations in a field setting, proper calibration and maintenance of monitoring equipment, and conducting quality assurance of environmental data. 

Working knowledge of watershed management principles and practices, limnology, hydrology, stream ecology, and contaminant transport principles, particularly in the context of Southeastern Minnesota. 

Experience with public communications efforts and public speaking related to water quality, drinking water, or environmental projects. 

Experience using the FLUX32 model to calculate pollutant loads. 

Experience with equipment and supply budgeting, purchasing, invoicing and inventory. 

Project management experience, especially pertaining to watershed management projects (WRAPS, TMDLs, CWP loans and 319 grants) or other water monitoring projects; including budgeting, invoicing and accurate record keeping. 

Proficient in Graphic Information System (GIS) software manipulation and editing. 

Ability to: 

Work effectively with others and coordinate with individuals involved in diverse environmental programs and research and to establish and maintain productive and open communications with business partners and other staff members. 

Critically review, document, and summarize information and data into comprehensive recommendations, reports, and presentations.
 

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand and walk and step over obstacles in uneven terrain. The employee is occasionally required to sit, climb, or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Requires occasionally lifting and/or carrying such articles as file folders and boxes, tools, or heavier materials with help from others and/or moving light objects frequently. A job in this category may require maintaining a stationary position to a significant degree or may involve a certain amount of moving necessary in carrying out job duties.

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 DLR 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.