ECOLOGIST Job Fort Smith area,Arkansas USA,Science

Position: ECOLOGIST I *
SUMMARY

The incumbent, under the supervision of the Watershed Supervisor and direction of the Ecologist II, is responsible for monitoring water quality in the City’s drinking water reservoirs and watersheds; performing tasks to comply with the EPA accepted watershed management plans; and in coordination with the Utility Department comprehensive strategic management plan.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Effectively collect and analyze samples in the watersheds and drinking water reservoirs, perform recordkeeping and records systems, maintenance boats and sampling equipment, monitor and manage watershed/reservoir health; and promote a positive workplace culture and positive employee relations.

2. Perform work tasks of any subordinate position as needed. This includes fisheries netting, electro-shocking and trawl techniques, and remote stream sampling; as well as water sampling and analysis.

3. Log and compile results accurately and maintains records of tests conducted into a computer data-base and Review work for accuracy and completeness.

4. Assist Ecologist II in the analyses and interpretation of water quality and biological data to identify trends and/or the relative condition of streams and reservoirs, to comply with EPA approved Watershed Management Plans.

5. Attend water quality conferences to keep abreast of new techniques and/or updated methods for monitoring watershed and reservoir water quality.

6. Participate in public outreach through presentations to schools and civic groups to emphasize the effects of land use on water quality.

7. Maintain a clean working environment including janitorial duties such as dusting, mopping, taking out the trash, etc.

8. Safely operate maintain, and work from various sizes of boats in all kinds of weather; drive a truck with a boat trailer attached; and work alone in remote areas without direct supervision.

9. Participates in classes and/or attend conferences that are deemed necessary by the Watershed Supervisor and/or Environmental Program Manager.

10. Follows City, Utility Department, and Environmental Quality Program safety practices and guidelines at all times, including wearing proper personal protective/safety equipment.

11. Regular attendance and timeliness is required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Fisheries and Wildlife Management, Ecology or related discipline.
Must possess a Grade IV Water Treatment Operators License as issued by the Arkansas Department of Health, or obtain said license within three (3) years from of hire.
Must possess a Class III Wastewater Operators License as issued by the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality or be able to obtain the license within three (3) years from of hire.
Must possess a boating safety certificate issued by the appropriate state agency or be able to obtain the license within six (6) months from of hire.
Must be able to operate a boat safely and perform routine maintenance.
Must possess a valid driver’s license.
Experience in power tool use and maintenance a plus.

OTHER

SKILLS and ABILITIES

Ability to read and interpret complex documents such as federal regulations, policy and procedure manuals. Ability to write complex reports and correspondence. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also required. Ability to effectively communicate with industry representatives,…