Review Vacancy
AgencyEnvironmental Conservation, Department of
TitleResearch Scientist 2 Water Pollution
Occupational CategoryI.T. Engineering, Sciences
Bargaining UnitPS&T - Professional, Scientific, and Technical (PEF)
Salary RangeFrom $68238 to $86398 Annually
Appointment Type Contingent Permanent
Minimum Qualifications +Minimum Qualifications for Non-Competitive Appointments:
Qualifications include a Bachelor’s Degree and three years of professional research in the field of Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, or a related field; OR a Master’s Degree and two years of professional research in the field of Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, or a related field or a doctorate in Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, or a related field.
Duties Description • Conduct research, data analysis and interpretation of environmental data to assist in the generation of federally-mandated Division of Water (DOW) Waterbody Inventory/Priority Waterbodies List (WI/PWL) water quality assessments. Specific areas of research and expertise include but are not limited to: gathering, evaluating, and interpreting environmental monitoring data; understanding of chemical, biological and toxicity indicators; understanding the relationship between standards/criteria and impacts to human uses and aquatic life; and familiarity with federal CWA water quality reporting requirements. Assessment conclusions need to be well documented and based on sound science, and be presented in a manner that can be easily understood by the public. These efforts will culminate in the publication of professional papers regarding methods and approaches, and authored reports detailing the findings of water quality assessments for New York State waters. These products are typically reviewed by a supervising researcher. (45%)
• Manage and maintain the database, website, and GIS data layers for the WI/PWL program. This includes most public facing communications regarding the WI/PWL. (10%)
• Organize and oversee data submission from outside organizations and the public for inclusion in WI/PWL assessments and impaired waterbody 303(d) listings decisions. Evaluations of outside data suitability and applicability is typically performed with the assistance of a supervising researcher. (10%)
• Compile and review DOW’s Section 305(b) State Water Quality Report and coordinate its submission to federal counterparts. This includes any modifications of the standard DOW data format to meet federal formatting requirements. (5%)
• Consult and advise higher-level researchers regarding the review and development of physical, chemical, and biological criteria for water quality standards, with the understanding of how such indicators are applied to determine impacts to human uses (water supply, recreational use) and aquatic life. Collaborate with other DOW researchers to determine how best to implement newly developed criteria and indicators for nutrients, pathogens, and contaminants of emerging concern. (15%)
• Under the broad direction of the section chief (Research Scientist 4), prepare technical rulemaking documents for water quality standards and surface water reclassifications; interpret standards and classifications for Department staff and the public. (10%)
• Provide technical support and maintain effective working relationships with non-Departmental experts and the public and participate in the Division of Water’s research related workgroups. (5%)
Additional Comments The travel percentage will vary depending upon season.Must have valid driver's license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position. Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions. Travel and overnight travel may be required.
• Knowledge of New York State and Clean Water Act (CWA) regulations as they relate to water quality assessment and impaired waters
• Familiarity with water quality standards and criteria
• Familiarity with water quality monitoring programs
• Competence in geographic information system (GIS) data management and maintenance
• Skills in relational database development and maintenance
• Skills in computer modeling
• Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.