Lead Hydrographic Scientist; PSRS III

Department Information

Open only to current residents of Colorado.

Colorado Department of Natural Resources manages, uses, and conserves Colorado’s natural resources for the benefit of the public. The mission is to balance development with conservation to provide opportunities for today and future generations.

Explore our website at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). for more information on how we manage Colorado’s natural resources.

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion are essential to our success. Candidates of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities are encouraged to apply.

• Medical and Dental plans
• Strong, flexible retirement plans, including PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus pre‑tax 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid life insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Employee wellness programs
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• 11 paid holidays per year plus generous vacation and sick leave
• Flexible work schedule options and remote‑work options
• Career advancement opportunities throughout the State system

Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit /myDirect

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Mission: administer the waters of the State to maximize lawful beneficial use, ensure dams and water wells are safe, and provide information about water resources to the public.

The DWR hydrographic program determines water availability and supports the allocation of Colorado water rights by the State Engineer. The hydrographic work unit researches, analyzes, and supplies hydrographic data used to determine daily surface‑water supply for water‑rights administration.

Key duties include: establishing location, measurement method, and installation/maintenance of hydrographic field gaging/research stations; verifying accurate streamflow data; calibrating and repairing stage sensors and satellite transmission equipment; monitoring measurement devices; analyzing measurement methods and protocols; inspecting water‑measurement structures; correcting observed problems; and supporting water‑supply forecasting across multiple watersheds.

The position serves as the staff authority to manage scientific hydrographic expertise for approximately 50 hydrologic/research gaging stations throughout Division 5. It directs the hydrographic program, oversees technicians, and ensures continuous data compilation quality and publication of annual streamflow records in accordance with U.S. Geological Survey and State standards.

Other duties as assigned.

• Eight (8) years of relevant experience with scientific field investigations related to measuring surface‑water flows or other relevant scientific field experience in water or natural resources.
• Or a combination of related education and experience equivalent to eight (8) years. Degrees may include engineering, hydrology, water‑resource management, or environmental engineering.

Experience must be substantiated in the work‑experience section of your application. “See resume” statements will not be accepted. Part‑time work will be prorated.

• Current or former State experience relevant to this position.
• Experience assisting customers and/or conducting public outreach.
• Experience with complex data acquisition and analysis.
• Extensive knowledge of flow‑measurement device installation and operation (Parshall flumes, rectangular, V‑notch, Cipolletti weirs).
• Extensive knowledge of open‑channel flow‑measurement techniques.
• Knowledge of channel control structures and configuration.
• Knowledge of electronic device circuitry, power requirements, wiring, functionality, and programming.
• Other experience relevant to water‑resource management.
• Proficiency with Google and Microsoft suites, including Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel.

• Primarily reporting to the main Division office with extensive field time and limited work‑from‑home opportunities.

• Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned…