Environmental Research Scientist

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago Environmental Research Scientist (#)

Under supervision, carries out routine/generally established applied research projects in relation to wastewater treatment processes, individually or in conjunction with other investigators.

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Conducts monitoring and research assignments on wastewater and sludge processing technology and in the fields of environmental chemistry, wastewater microbiology, sanitary engineering, wastewater engineering and environmental engineering.
• Assists Maintenance and Operations in solving plant problems such as those related to sludge dewatering and odor management.
• Under the direction of a supervisor, assists the Engineering Department by generating data for conceptual/preliminary design of treatment processes.
• Conducts laboratory, pilot, and field testing procedures.
• Assists with various projects managed by a supervisor and/or outside investigators.

• Assists in preparing work plans, standard operating procedures, technical manuscripts for publication and interim and final reports on research programs and projects.
• Reviews technical documents from other District Departments or outside agencies.
• Prepares or participates in seminar presentations related to research projects
• Initiates and processes purchase requisitions and payment forms and performs other administrative duties.
• Assigns, supervises, and reviews the work of subordinates.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

May involve exposure to a variety of chemical and biological materials, some of which may be hazardous or toxic. May involve exposure to fumes and noxious odors.

• Considerable knowledge in the principles, practices and techniques of wastewater treatment, including sludge processing.
• Considerable knowledge of research methods associated with air, sludge, and water quality monitoring and field and laboratory testing.
• Some knowledge of analytical techniques pertaining to wastewater, sludge, and air.
• Considerable knowledge of statistical techniques used in analyzing data.
• Some knowledge of Federal and State of Illinois environmental regulations.
• Ability to direct, monitor and participate in the development of research projects.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

A master's degree in water resources sciences, environmental sciences, environmental engineering or sanitary engineering from an accredited college or university.

• Possession of a master’s degree in water resources sciences, environmental sciences, environmental engineering or sanitary engineering.
• One year of service with the District as a Senior Laboratory Technician or Senior Environmental Research Technician.
• Civil service status in one of the foregoing classifications.