Water Quality Monitoring Lead - Job ID 82536

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 two (2) vacancies located in the Brainerd office. ***

This position exists to perform water chemistry monitoring for the Water Quality Monitoring Unit within the Environmental Analysis and Outcomes Division. This position will lead, organize, schedule, and coordinate the monitoring of lakes, rivers, and streams as a team within Minnesota. The incumbent uses the monitoring data to determine if the waterbody supports aquatic life and aquatic recreation with the primary focus being water chemistry parameters. The position will also lead the development of watershed reports and lead seasonal staff in the field.
 

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in environmental protection or related science field; OR

Two (2) years of environmental protection experience, 

AND

Basic computer and database skills.

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, water chemistry in lakes, rivers, and streams using MPCA standard operating procedures. 

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. 

Leadership experience in prior work, civic, or school projects. 

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

Coursework and/or knowledge of lake limnological models and water quality parameters.

Knowledge of water and boat safety.

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.