Water Quality Scientist
Job No: 498322
FT/PT: Full-time
Regular/Project/Seasonal: Regular
Location: Austin, TX 78703
City: Austin
State: Texas
Categories: Operations/Maintenance (Power, Water, Transmission, Telecom), Hybrid
Do you enjoy diving into scientific data? Do you thrive when collaborating with others? At LCRA, we are seeking a Water Quality Scientist to join our enthusiastic and talented team of water resource professionals. Our team works to protect water quality in the Texas Colorado River, its reservoirs and tributaries. This role is suited for those who enjoy and are skilled at data organization, quality assurance, working with aquatic organisms, learning collaboratively with others, effective communication, and finding science-based solutions for complex problems. One primary aspect of the job will be working with the Clean Rivers Program, which is a grant-based partnership with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. You will have the opportunity to travel throughout the Colorado River watershed to help monitor and assess the water quality and aquatic health of this breathtaking region, and to work with internal/external stakeholders throughout the basin to accomplish water quality protection goals. Our ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of water quality science, attention to both details and timelines, an enthusiasm for working with people and a high standard of customer service.
You will be trusted to:
- Serve as the LCRA Clean Rivers Program quality assurance officer. Tasks will include routine data entry into a SQL Server database; conducting field audits and readiness reviews for application of current field methods; writing and coordinating development of Quality Assurance Project Plans; field documentation; routine collaboration with the LCRA Data Manager and Lead for reviewing and organizing data; and assisting in planning/preparing annual basin water quality reports.
- Perform biological work in the rivers and reservoirs of the Colorado River basin as projects and needs arise.
- Assist on projects related to algae, cyanotoxins, invasive species, native mussels, fish, macroinvertebrates, pollution complaint investigation, outreach and education, and special projects to address water quality impairments or concerns.
- Represent LCRA and our team in professional meetings with external colleagues and stakeholders.
- Work collaboratively with other members of the Water Quality Protection team to achieve departmental goals and address emerging issues.
- Interact with citizens and stakeholders in a professional manner to answer questions and educate them on topics related to water quality protection.
You qualify with:
- Bachelor's degree in science or engineering plus two or more years of experience in water quality protection, environmental program administration or environmental compliance.
- Driver's license
You are a great fit with:
- Experience analyzing scientific data, writing reports and communicating findings
- Experience using SQL Server Management Studio, R and R Studio
- Experience using and calibrating water quality equipment
- Experience interacting with the public in a professional role
- Ability to occasionally lift 30 lbs and work in a variety of weather conditions
You gain:
- Competitive salary & medical, dental, vision and legal insurance
- Paid time off, including time for vacation, sick and family care leave
- 401(k) match up to 8% that includes a student loan 401(k) contribution program option
- Life and disability insurance
- Wellness program including wellness incentive
- Extensive learning & development programs
And more - all to create a compelling and rewarding work environment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
LCRA provides equal employment opportunities and a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at LCRA are based on business need, job requirement and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, or veteran status in accordance with applicable federal and state legal requirements governing nondiscrimination in employment.
LCRA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants with physical or mental disabilities. Applicants with a disability who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process can contact LCRA Human Resources (512) 578-4004 or email lcra.benefits@lcra.org. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Applications close:
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