Aquatic Ecologist

4 months ago


Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States Barr Engineering Co. Full time

Job Description:

Summary:

The person in this position will work with a diverse team of engineers and scientists, completing water resources and related technical assignments. Work may include field monitoring/sampling of water quality parameters; hydrologic and water quality analyses related to stormwater, stream, pond, wetland, lake, and reservoir management; aquatic ecology and aquatic plant management; water quality analysis in urban and/or rural settings; preparation of Total Maximum Daily Load reports, Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies reports, and other technical reports; and working with permitting agencies and public officials.

Responsibilities may also include involvement with project teams involved in hydrologic/water quality modeling, stormwater management, watershed planning, natural resources management, and GIS work. The majority of work outside of winter months may involve short-term, and potentially out-of-town assignments, either in the field or in another office.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in aquatic ecology, limnology, biology, water resources science, environmental science, or a related field
  • Demonstrated interest or emphasis in lake and stream management, water quality, fisheries, and/or aquatic ecology
  • Ability to conduct water quality field monitoring
  • Familiarity with water resources topics such as lake management (aquatic plants, algae, nutrient cycling, and other aspects of lake ecology), aquatic invasive species management, fisheries management, and hydrology
  • Familiarity with water quality analysis, which may include water quality models, analysis methods, etc.
  • Flexible working style and willingness to occasionally modify personal schedule as required to meet deadlines and/or client needs
  • Ability to coordinate complex monitoring schedules and workload
  • Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
  • Legal authorization to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship from Barr, now or in the future
  • Possession of a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree or PhD in aquatic ecology, limnology, biology, water resources science, environmental science, or a related field
  • One to two years of professional experience working in lake and stream management, water quality, fisheries, and/or aquatic ecology
  • Familiarity with techniques such as water sampling, automated sampling, sediment coring, macroinvertebrate sampling, electrofishing, wild rice surveys, or related techniques
  • Experience with water quality, modeling, water chemistry, aquatic plant identification and management, fisheries identification and management, and invasive species control
  • Working knowledge of GIS software
  • Familiarity with statistical analysis software such as R or other programming languages
  • Familiarity with relevant water quality laboratory procedures such as algae/cyanobacteria identification, phosphorus fractionation, or other related procedures
  • Familiarity with local and state regulatory requirements
  • Familiarity with hydrologic modeling, water quality modeling, and water balance software programs
  • Strong technical skills in a broad range of water quality topics

A hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of Barr's Minneapolis, MN office.

NOTE: Work will require working outdoors and on waterbodies, operating small motorboats, and the potential for working in remote outdoor locations. Safety training will be provided. Applicants may be asked to participate in a drug screening program at the request of specific clients.

#LI-Hybrid

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Barr is proud to be an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other lawfully protected status.