Lakes Monitoring Specialist

State of Oklahoma • Oklahoma City, OK

11h • Onsite

About The Position

The Oklahoma Water Resources Board is a state agency responsible for overseeing the complex mission of managing, monitoring, planning for and financing the state's water resources and infrastructure towards reliable future supplies that support strong communities, commerce, and the environment. The agency is seeking a full-time Lakes Monitoring Specialist to join our family of professionals in delivering exceptional services and expertise to Oklahomans.

Division: Water Assessment, Trends, and Environmental Research
Section: Lakes
Location of Work: 3800 Classen Boulevard; Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Trial Period: 12 months in accordance with (OAC) 260:130-19-30
Travel: Extensive fieldwork, training & conference attendance with extended day and overnight travel is required.

Requirements

• Strong communications skills
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of environmental quality and sanitation
• Knowledge of biological, microbiological, radiological and chemical analysis
• Knowledge of environmental problems
• Knowledge of sample collection
• Knowledge of laboratory methodologies
• Knowledge of complaint investigations
• Knowledge of the survey and inspection of environmental and sanitary conditions
• Knowledge of consumer protection
• Knowledge of epidemiology
• Knowledge of water and air quality regulations
• Knowledge of hydrological and geological survey methods
• Knowledge of the principles of ground and surface water geology and hydrology
• Ability to operate and maintain monitoring and detection equipment
• Ability to establish and maintain professional working relationships with others
• Ability to write technical reports
• Ability to collect samples
• Ability to apply research methodologies
• Ability to read and interpret plans and specifications of proposed facilities
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite
• Bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in a physical, natural, or biological science, chemistry, geology, hydrology, physical geography, epidemiology, environmental science, environmental health or civil, agricultural, environmental, geological or chemical engineering.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future employer sponsorship

Nice To Haves

• Experience with the operation of boats and/or another watercraft
• Experience with GPS equipment and ArcGIS
• One (1) year of professional experience in one of the areas listed (for Level II)
• Master's degree in a qualifying area (for Level II)

Responsibilities

• Performing various activities in our Lakes Monitoring Program such as water quality sampling, GIS mapping, diagnostic and restoration activities, assist with wetlands monitoring, and writing/review of technical reports and technical guidance documents.
• Gathers, organizes, and processes water quality and quantity data.
• Operates field trucks, boats, and other field equipment.
• Performs validations on water quality and quantity data or other types of data.
• Performs routine chemical tests of samples. Process biological samples for taxonomic analysis.
• Prepares, or review data summary reports of investigations, sampling, chemical analysis, or other related tasks.
• Maintain and calibrate various types of electronic and non-electronic equipment.
• Enters data and manipulates spreadsheets from a variety of investigations and projects.
• Ensures that data is collected and analyzed in a scientifically defensible manner.
• Works with Lakes Monitoring Leader on project planning and implementation.
• Assist with bathymetric mapping activities of lakes across the state
• Other Duties Assigned

Benefits

• Generous Annual Benefit Allowance: Up to $21,934 to help cover insurance premiums for employees and their families.
• Comprehensive Insurance Plans: A variety of options with no exclusions for pre-existing conditions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax savings for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Retirement Savings Plans: Pathfinder Defined Contribution Plan: Employer matches 6% of a minimum 4.5% employee contribution (up to 7% if the employee contributes 7%). OPERS Defined Benefit Plan: Available for reenrollment to employees enrolled prior to November 1, 2015.
• Paid Leave: 15 days annually during the first 1–5 years of service.
• Holidays: Eleven paid holidays annually.
• Employee Discounts: Special rates with various vendors and companies.
• Longevity Payment: Monetary rewards beginning at two years of service to recognize dedicated tenure.
• Thrive: Empower Oklahoma State employees to improve & enhance their well-being

What This Job Offers

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