Hydrologist - Job ID 85250

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

As a Hydrologist at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), you will provide support in the areas of surface and groundwater hydrology, soil science, and PFAS to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s Municipal Wastewater NPDES/SDS permitting and Biosolids programs. This position is responsible for ensuring the MPCA Municipal Wastewater Section’s adherence to the State’s ground water protection Rules and Regulations. This is done by providing soil and groundwater hydrology expertise in the investigation, evaluation, design, and monitoring of land application treatment facilities and large subsurface treatment systems (LSTS). The position completes soil and groundwater hydrology reviews and makes permitting recommendations to support the issuance/reissuance of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) or State Disposal System (SDS) permits. The position also assists in providing soil and groundwater hydrology evaluations and information as needed in the development of enforcement documents and actions. 

Additionally, this position will provide assistance to the Agency’s biosolids coordinator by supporting the biosolids PFAS work and coordinating technical, hydrologic, and soil reviews for land application sites. This position will also support the Municipal Wastewater’s PFAS coordinator with evaluating and managing sampling data.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in one of the following areas: Environmental Engineering; Environmental Health; Environmental Studies; Geology; Hydrogeology; Hydrology; Soil and Water Resource Management; Soil Science; Water Resource Management.

To qualify candidates must have least two courses completed in Hydrology/Hydrogeology and listed on their resume. [Candidates must list courses on resume to qualify]

Basic computer skills; proficiency in Word and exposure to Excel and Power Point.

Good communication skills and the ability to establish and maintain good working relations with internal and external business partners.

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

Degree in Geology or Hydrology/Hydrogeology.

Experience and understanding of wastewater treatment facility operations and NPDES/SDS permit program and regulations.

Working knowledge of surface water/groundwater interactions and groundwater dynamics and soil properties. 

Working knowledge of the land application of biosolids.

Working knowledge of PFAS.

Demonstrated ability to bring projects to a satisfactory conclusion.

Problem-solving skills for resolving complex technical matters.

Proven written and verbal communication and human relations skills to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.

Physical Requirements

Some infrequent lifting of equipment and working out in the field in adverse weather conditions. Ability to conduct site visits at wastewater treatment facilities which may involve climbing and/or stepping over obstacles and inspecting construction sites. Ability to use a computer and perform keyboard functions for multiple hours per day.

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.