Utahs Division of Water Quality (DWQ) Seeks a Clean Lakes and Wetlands Program Coordinator
Salary: $27.63 - $29.17/hour ($57,470 - $60,674/annum) To Apply: https://statejobs.utah.gov (job #19311) We are seeking someone to oversee DWQs Clean Lakes and Wetlands Program. This is an exciting opportunity for a self-motivated individual with an interest in both applied science and policy. The ideal candidate for this job will have an extensive background in lentic ecology, particularly with regard to ecosystem processes. Also, given the regulatory role of DWQ, candidates should have an extensive understanding of how human activities affect the support of biological and recreation uses, and the ability to interpret water quality indicators to determine the extent to which these uses are met. The person in this position will serve as the Division expert in limnology with specific job activities that include: conducting lake/reservoir assessments, development of monitoring designs, modeling lake processes to develop site-specific standards, development of numeric nutrient criteria for lakes/reservoirs, development of a wetland monitoring and assessment program, and planning efficient and effective remediation programs. Given the eclectic nature of job activities, this position inherently requires close collaboration with other scientists both within and outside of DWQ. A few examples of broad, but interesting, questions we are trying to address: Are current conditions in the Great Salt Lake human-caused or are they simply indicative of the fact that it is a hypersaline, terminal waterbody with unique biogeochemical processes? How can we best refine aquatic life beneficial use classes and assessment methods in reservoirs to continue protection, but accounts for the use of these waters for water distribution? What lake or reservoir physical and chemical characteristics are most likely to result in mercury fish tissue contamination? Can this knowledge be used to generate lake-specific remediation plans? How can we most effectively assess the quality of Utahs wetlands? How can we use a watershed-based framework to address key problems that we identify? Job Characteristics The person in this position serves as the Divisions technical expert in lentic ecology and uses their knowledge to inform management decisions made throughout numerous water quality programs. Specific job responsibilities are diverse and daily tasks will vary depending on DWQ priorities. Examples of specific tasks conducted in this job are identified by water quality program below: Assessing the current condition and water quality trends of lakes/reservoirs (303d/305b) Compiles monitoring data and analyzes the information to determine beneficial uses support; summaries assessment results biennially for the Integrated Report, develops and implements assessment methods; evaluates causes of impairment; develops and implements a program for assessing the condition of wetlands; conducts field evaluations of impaired waters; designs efficient and effective monitoring methods. Water Quality Standards Assists with the development of new or revised standards; conducts research to provide scientific rationale for changes to existing standards; develops new numeric standards for lakes and reservoirs; makes recommendations about appropriate beneficial uses for lakes, reservoirs and wetlands; writes grants as appropriate to fund research; creates models to better understand site-specific processes in lakes/reservoirs; practices effective project management for all research activities; promotes opportunities for collaborative research. Nonpoint Source (319) Program Prioritizes restoration opportunities at lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands to identify projects that are most likely to result in measurable environmental results; assists with the design of restoration activities; develops monitoring strategies to evaluate the efficacy of remediation activities. TMDL Program Helps identify and address data gaps in the information needed to create scientifically defensible TMDLs for lakes and reservoirs; assists with analyses to better understand within lake processing of pollutants; reviews TMDL reports on lakes and reservoirs. Desired Knowledge and Skills Job duties for the person in this position are diverse, while this means that the successful candidate is unlikely to get bored with the job, it also means that a breadth of knowledge and skills are useful in efficiently and effectively performing job functions. Similarly, this announcement contains only broad qualifications that are needed to perform job functions. Generally we are looking for a creative limnologist with a good understanding of how to quantify the extent to which humans have altered lentic ecosystems. A background in nutrient processes and eutrophication is particularly desirable. Solid analytical skills are needed, particularly with regard to interpreting water quality data. Strong written and oral communication skills are also desirable. Finally, it would be useful if candidates have demonstrated experience managing multiple projects to deliver key products in a timely manner. About DWQ Utahs DWQ is a fun and dynamic work environment with a dedicated staff. While all employees primarily carry out their specific job requirements, there is also close collaboration among section staff. The overall environment is intellectually stimulating and provides ample opportunities for employee development. Due to the nature of our work, most DWQ scientists gain much satisfaction in seeing the direct application of our science to making real improvements in water quality throughout Utah. About Utah Salt Lake City (SLC) has a lively nightlife, low crime rates, and a healthy young population. If you ski, SLC is located within ~35 miles from some of the best resorts on Earth, which have an average of 400 of annual snowfall. SLC is a short trip from the most scenic National Parks in the nation including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Grand Teton and Yellowstone. About 70% of Utah is publicly owned lands with numerous outdoor recreation opportunities including world class: rafting, kayaking, fly fishing, skiing, snowboarding, cycling, and hiking. Questions? Jeff Ostermiller (801-538-6370, 801-258-1611 mobile) can answer questions about job duties or job requirements. Jen Burge (801-536-4413) can answer questions about job application procedures.
