Environmental Scientist - Instream Flow Program
Please apply for this job at the CalCareers link provided in the description below. Applications not submitted via CalCareers will not be considered.
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Job Description and Duties
Are you interested in developing instream flow criteria to protect California’s fish and wildlife? Do you have experience or a strong interest in fisheries or aquatic biology, hydrology, or streamflow management issues? Come join the Instream Flow Program's Flow Assessment Unit, where you will work to develop flow criteria using site-specific field studies and rapid assessment methods, perform data analyses, and convey flow information.
Many Instream Flow Program projects are built on intensive field data collection efforts. Projects are conducted as a team effort, and require close collaboration with other Environmental Scientists, Senior Environmental Scientists, and the program's Senior Hydraulic Engineer, as well as coordination with other state agencies and CDFW regional offices. Field data collection typically includes assessment of stream habitat types, detailed topographic surveys of stream channels, and discharge and water surface elevation measurements. Given the variety of streams in the state and the complexity of the data analysis and technical reports, strong problem-solving and organizational skills and a positive attitude towards teamwork are essential.
In this position, you would work to effectively implement a variety of standard instream flow methods, including use of the California Environmental Flows Framework tools. Strong writing skills and experience analyzing data and creating graphics with Excel, R, and ArcGIS are a plus. Come help us in our effort to improve management of California's water for the environment!
Personal Leave Program: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions ranging from 2% to 4.62% in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) hours. Please note that the salary ranges listed in this Job Control may not reflect these reductions associated with the 2025 Personal Leave Program.
Please follow the link for more information regarding the 2025 Personal Leave program:
Personal Leave Program - Human Resources - CalHR.
This position may be eligible for a telework opportunity in accordance with departmental policies and operational needs. Beginning July 1, 2026, employees will be required to work in-person at least four (4) days per week in alignment with Executive Order N-22-25. Additional in-office days may be required based on operational needs.
In order to be eligible for this position, you must either be transfer eligible or take and pass the following exam.
Class Title: Environmental Scientist
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
This position is office based and requires the ability to use a computer keyboard several hours a day. Involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods. Scheduling or attending meetings and coordination efforts will prioritize in-person over virtual options. Must be able and willing to conduct seasonal fieldwork involving walking through stream channels in waders, hiking over uneven and possibly steep or wet terrain, carrying heavy equipment to survey and/or sample locations; ability to swim required. Must attend meetings and work with staff throughout the state to complete work assignments; be able to operate a motor vehicle and be willing to travel using a state vehicle. May be required to wear a uniform identifying the employee as Department staff. Frequent travel is/may be required within the state of California via private or public transportation (i.e. automobile, airplane, etc.), up to 10%. Travel may include extended hours with overnight stay(s).
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.