Aquatic ecologist job description

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 TMDLs, WRAPs, and other technical reports; presenting at public forums, client meetings, and conferences; developing and maintaining client relationships; and working with permitting agencies and public officials. Responsibilities may also include working with project teams involved in hydrologic/water quality modeling, stormwater management, watershed planning, natural resources management, and GIS work. Work may involve short-term, 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 related field

* At least three years of relevant professional experience

* Demonstrated interest or emphasis in lake and stream management, water quality, fisheries, and/or aquatic ecology

* Ability to conduct water quality field monitoring and experience with techniques such as water sampling, automated sampling, sediment coring, macroinvertebrate sampling, electrofishing, wild rice surveys, or related techniques.

* 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.

* Familiarity with local and state regulatory requirements, including Federal Energy Regulatory Commission licensing

* 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, staff, and workload

* Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills

* Legal authorization to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship

* Acceptable driving record

Preferred Qualifications:

* Master's degree or PhD in aquatic ecology, limnology, biology, water resources science, environmental science, or related field

* At least five years of relevant professional experience

* Work experience in consulting

* Demonstrated project organization and management skills

* 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

* Advanced knowledge of water monitoring, modeling, water chemistry, aquatic plant identification and management, fisheries identification and management, and invasive species control

* Experience 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, Minnesota, 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