Coastal Resources Scientist

About This Job

This position serves as a Coastal Resources Scientist within the Plan Development Section of the Planning and Research Division at the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA). The incumbent provides advanced scientific, environmental, and technical expertise in support of Louisiana’s comprehensive coastal Master Plan and related restoration and hurricane flood protection initiatives while balancing environmental, economic, and social considerations. As part of the Master Plan Team, the role helps develop the state’s Coastal Master Plan, shaping strategies and investments to protect and restore vital coastal ecosystems and address risks to communities from storm surge‑based flooding.

A bachelor's degree in one of the following fields: biological sciences, physical sciences, earth sciences, environmental sciences, natural sciences, engineering, or a related field.

• Supports the development and implementation of CPRA’s Master Plan and Annual Plan by conducting scientific and technical analyses, coordinating interagency data collection, and preparing planning documents, presentations, and public outreach materials.
• Assists in the evaluation and recommendation of coastal restoration and hurricane protection projects through data analysis, site assessments, and preparation of briefing materials for decision‑making bodies such as the CPRA Board and legislative committees.
• Prepares and reviews technical reports, briefing materials, and presentations related to coastal restoration and hurricane protection, and assists in responding to public and interagency information requests within assigned areas of expertise.
• Prepares or assists in developing scopes of work, deliverables, budgets, and timelines for contracted services; monitors contractor performance and reviews invoices and documentation to ensure compliance with contract terms, technical standards, and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Represents the Planning and Research Division or CPRA at conferences, workshops, seminars, and public meetings.

Appointment Type: Probational or Promotional

Career Progression: This position may be filled as a Coastal Resources Scientist 1, 2, or 3, depending on level of experience.

Office

Location:

150 Terrace Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Compensation: The maximum salary for a Coastal Resources Scientist 3 is $84,136 annually. This position is eligible for premium pay.

Special bi‑weekly entrance rates:

• Coastal Resources Scientist 1: $1,672.80
• Coastal Resources Scientist 2: $1,789.60
• Coastal Resources Scientist 3: $2,036.80

Eligibility

Note:

Applicants who are within 90 days of graduating are allowed to apply.

Official transcripts will be required upon hire. Louisiana is a State as Model Employer (SAME) that supports the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities.

To apply for this vacancy, click on the “Apply” link above and complete an electronic application. Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application for recruitment progress. Applications must include information to support eligibility (e.g., relevant, detailed experience/education). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.

Rachel Dunbar, Human Resources Supervisor
P.O. Box 44027
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
CPRA.Human Resources

Insurance Coverage: More information can be found at /

Parental Leave: Up to six weeks paid parental leave. More information at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..aspx

Holidays and Leave: State employees receive the following paid holidays each year:
New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Mardi Gras, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day. Additional holidays may be proclaimed by the Governor.

State employees earn sick and annual leave, which can be accumulated and saved for future use. Accrual rate increases with years of service.

Retirement: State of Louisiana employees are eligible to participate in various retirement systems based on the type of appointment and agency. Systems include the Louisiana State Employees Retirement System (LASERS), Teacher's Retirement System of Louisiana, Louisiana School Employees Retirement System, and others.