Local recruitment: Water Resource Specialist

Prairie Island Indian Community

Welch, MN, USA 🇺🇸

SUMMARY: The Water Resource Specialist will develop and implement aspects of a water quality monitoring and protection program for the waters within, adjacent to, and of importance to the tribal community. This includes building the technical capabilities within the tribe to effectively address water quality-related issues and protect tribal water resources.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES:

The following duties and responsibilities are not meant to be all inclusive and may be adjusted to meet the needs of the community.

  • Manage and administer the tribal water resources program; including implementation of the water quality monitoring, aquatic vegetation surveys, and wetlands program
  • Collect water quality and biological samples from area lakes, rivers, and wetlands
  • Perform analytical procedures in a laboratory setting
  • Calibrate and maintain sampling equipment
  • Manage water resource-related grant funding resources; includes application, writing and reporting which includes semi-annual progress reporting and annual technical data reports
  • Seek federal approval of quality assurance project plan (QAPP), standard operating procedures (SOPs), and monitoring assessment plan for water monitoring projects
  • Incorporate data into PIIC GIS and WQX databases
  • Work collaboratively on project planning and implementation with the Non-point Source Pollution (NPS) Specialist
  • Develop strategies with short-and long-term goals that benefit water resources
  • Facilitate management and protection of wetland habitats
  • Represent PIIC regarding water resource issues at local, regional and national levels
  • Supervise summer seasonal staff or interns as relevant; assist with hiring process in water-resource related positions
  • Collaborate across local/state/regional agencies/groups to benefit broad-scale water resource issues.
  • Manage wild rice restoration program and associated water quality standard rule changes
  • Review and provide comment on existing state and federal water quality standards and rulemakings
  • Partner with other departments within the organization on outreach/education efforts
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, chemistry, or related field
  • Minimum of one (1) year experience with environmental monitoring
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Strong computer skills Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook)
  • The ability to work independently and effectively with minimal supervision.
  • Successful experience working in a team setting.
  • Sensitive to Native American Culture
  • Pass drug screen (UA) and a criminal background check
  • Valid driver’s license and proof of insurability
  • Grant management experience
  • Ability to travel occasionally

Preferred

  • ArcGIS software experience
  • Experience with motorboats and UTV/ATV operation

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:*

  • Must have the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
  • Must have ability to operate field equipment, tools, boats and watercraft
  • Must be able to walk, stand or sit for long periods throughout the day
  • Must be able to push, pull and grasp objects routinely
  • Must have good balance and be able to bend and crouch frequently
  • Ability to work in extreme temperatures and weather conditions

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled


POSITION TYPE

ORGANIZATION TYPE

EXPERIENCE-LEVEL

DEGREE REQUIRED

IHE Delft - MSc in Water and Sustainable Development