TWDB - 26-112: GW Modeler (Geoscientist I-II/Hydrologist II-III)

TWDB•Austin, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) is seeking a GW Modeler to perform complex (journey level) to highly complex (senior-level) geosciences or hydrological work. This role involves compiling and documenting source information, adhering to set processes and standards, and utilizing various programming scripts. The GW Modeler will develop and calibrate numerical groundwater flow models, analyze and interpret groundwater modeling results and water budgets, and use GIS software for data preparation and analysis. Responsibilities include writing reports, conducting presentations, reviewing data collection and analysis, and ensuring compliance with statutes and regulations. The position may involve training others and requires working under general to limited supervision with considerable latitude for initiative and independent judgment. The role reports to the Manager of the Groundwater Modeling Department.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in Hydrology, Water Resources, Geology, Hydrogeology, Natural Resources, Geography, or a related field.
At least two years of experience performing geosciences or hydrological work.
Geoscientist I - Two years of relevant experience and must be licensed as a Professional Geoscientist by the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists.
Geoscientist II - Five years of relevant experience and licensed as a Professional Geoscientist by the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists.
Hydrologist II - Two years of relevant experience.
Hydrologist III - Five years of relevant experience.
Experience in groundwater modeling using MODFLOW and/or FloPy.
Experience in programming in Python.
Relevant education and experience can be substituted for each other on a year-for-year basis.
Ability to meet agency in-office requirements.
Ability to adhere to work schedules, follow procedures with respect to leave and submit accurate timesheets by prescribed deadlines.
Ability to perform effectively and willingly when changes occur in scope and nature of the work and work environment.
Ability to perform routine and non-routine work assignments accurately and on-time with little or no supervision.
Ability to perform assigned duties and improve work habits and/or output.
Ability to complete assigned work, on time, neatly and with infrequent errors.
Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and regulations.
Ability to provide prompt, courteous and accurate assistance and clear and concise communication to all stakeholders both verbally and in writing.
Ability to work and cooperate with others in a team environment.
Ability to manage multiple tasks.
Ability to stand/sit/move to perform activities such as retrieve/replace files in a large file system for boxes up to 30 lbs.
Ability to operate a vehicle (state or personal) for state business and maintain a driver's license and driving record that complies with state and agency requirements.

Nice To Haves

Familiar with the Groundwater Modeling Program.
Experience in developing and interpreting numerical groundwater flow models, including analyzing water budgets.
Setting up predictive simulations to interpret changes in water levels or discharge to surface water, extracting data for estimates of groundwater volumes, and using PEST for model calibration or optimization.
Experience with developing, using, or manipulating programs/scripts for model data extraction, adjustments to model files, and/or to process and manipulate ASCII data files for scientific applications using Python and or/SQL.
Experience with GIS applications; prefer experience using ESRI ArcPro software product suite with knowledge of the spatial analyst extension and exposure to geodatabase use and design.
Experience or familiarity with ArcPy or use of Python scripting within the ArcGIS geoprocessing environment to perform geospatial data analysis, data conversion, data management, and automated map and table reports.
Experience or familiarity with geostatistical methods.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to the Groundwater Modeling Department.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.
Knowledge of basic hydrological and geological concepts, techniques, and analysis.
Knowledge of numerical groundwater flow modeling.
Knowledge in developing and/or using commercial pre- and post-processors for numerical groundwater flow models.
Knowledge of programming including the ability/aptitude to acquire, manipulate, and develop water resources data in multiple formats and/or from various sources.
Knowledge of geographic information systems (GIS) and aptitude to visualize three-dimensionally.
Knowledge of the principles of groundwater flow including various components of the water budget.
Skills in using Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, and Access.
Skills in use of internet, email, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software.
Skills in using programs such as Outlook, SharePoint, OneDrive.
Skills in conducting virtual meetings using Teams.
Skills in designing and implementing regional and local spatial analysis for groundwater studies.
Skill in writing, editing, and reviewing technical scientific reports.
Ability to maintain the security or integrity of critical infrastructure within Texas.
Ability to make mature, objective decisions and identify areas of potential problems.
Ability and willingness to travel 10% of the time, primarily within the State of Texas.
Ability to train others.

Responsibilities

Collects and reviews technical data, analyzes findings, assists with data calculations, and the development of recommendations for programs or projects.
Conducts scientific hydrogeological investigations to ensure that accurate and appropriate information is available for use in water resource management decisions.
Studies and documents quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of groundwater and surface water in support of groundwater modeling.
Maintains and prepares records and reports and presents technical evaluations and plans.
Implements technical projects and completes design preparation, plans, estimates, and calculations.
May develop or use hydrogeologic models for various applications.
Reviews the activities of contractors funded through the Groundwater Modeling Program.
Researches and delivers written and verbal responses to public, inter, and intra-agency inquiries.
May present presentations at public meetings summarizing modeling studies and simulations.
Adheres to and develops quality assurance procedures.
May train or mentor others.
Maintains confidential and sensitive information.
Ensures individual and team files (electronic and hard versions) are appropriately maintained and timely disposed of in accordance with the agency's records retention procedures and schedule.
Maintains required certifications and licenses and meets the continuing education needs and requirements of the position to include, attending mandatory training courses.
May be required to operate a state or personal vehicle for business purposes.
Performs other duties as assigned.