Environmental Scientist

State of Utah Office of the Governor • Cedar City, UT

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Cedar City Office of the Utah Division of Water Rights is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Hydrologic Scientist to join the team. This role involves assisting the Regional Engineer and staff in managing public inquiries, processing water rights applications, and conducting detailed analyses. As one of the oldest agencies in the State of Utah, the Division of Water Rights for the Department of Natural Resources has a long history of playing a critical role in the management of the state's water resources. Consequently, water users rely on the expertise of the Division of Water Rights to provide order and certainty in the distribution of Utah's water. As a member of our team you will have the opportunity to help people from all over the state understand water rights, work in a challenging profession that has a meaningful impact on every aspect of life in the arid West, and shape the future of the state's most valuable resource.

Requirements

• Ability to summarize a technical analysis in written format.
• Ability to write and review technical reports
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to understand and review engineering documents.
• Ability to make decisions or recommendations based on available data.
• Ability to perform and/or interpret hydraulic measurements.
• Ability to read and interpret maps.
• Competence in performing mathematical calculations.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive 4-wheel drive vehicles.

Nice To Haves

• Possesses a working knowledge of Utah water rights, including their characteristics, attributes, and the Division of Water Rights policies and procedures.
• Has a working knowledge of hydrologic data, including reading maps and understanding water, hydraulic, or flow principles.
• Understands the principles of water rights title, including the Report of Conveyance Training Manual and relevant statutes.
• Demonstrates the ability to work independently and inspire others to achieve common goals.
• Skilled in research and investigation methods and techniques.
• Capable of using logic to analyze or identify underlying principles, reasons, or facts associated with information or data to draw accurate conclusions.
• Exhibits strong communication and organizational skills to effectively manage multiple tasks and collaborate with team members
• Knowledge of and ability to apply water rights laws, administrative rules and office policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of principles of evapotranspiration, beneficial use and how to apply in complex water right problems.
• Ability to apply principles of water distribution to complex water systems.
• Ability to prepare and use water distribution models.
• Ability to interpret and apply the water right database as an analysis tool.
• Knowledge of and ability to use GPS equipment.
• Skilled at applying hydrology and hydraulic principles in the analysis of water rights.
• Preference may be given to applicants with a bachelor’s degree or higher in engineering, natural science, technical writing, or a related field.
• Preference may be given to applicants with professional work experience in Water Rights.

Responsibilities

• Assist the public with water right procedures and existing records in person and over the phone.
• Prepare water users' claims and various water right applications.
• Create and analyze maps using the Division's mapping software.
• Conduct technical reviews of water users' claims and other filed documents.
• Conduct depletion analyses and verify database accuracy for applications before obtaining signatures.
• Prepare draft Orders of the State Engineer for Temporary and Permanent Change Applications.
• Update application status and distribute signed orders appropriately.
• Include narrative comments in applications to highlight special features and ensure timely review and processing of various applications.
• Assist in the review of Proof of Beneficial Use forms and related documents and the preparation of draft certificates.

Benefits

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level