Aquatic Scientist

Overview

AQUATIC SCIENTIST I – Central Office - Waco, Texas

The purpose of this position is to collect, prepare, and analyze water samples for the Brazos River Authority's (BRA) water quality monitoring program, using a high level of expertise in aquatic biology and water quality assessment guidelines and procedures. This is accomplished by performing field sampling and lab analysis of water and biological samples; investigating the relationship of hydrology and

E. coli bacteria levels in river tributaries; setting up and maintaining stream-flow gauges at sites; performing stream-flow measurements using Doppler acoustic technology to establish a flow rating curve for each gauging station; collecting samples according to prescribed protocols at sites for analyses of water quality parameters and

E. coli bacteria; assisting with data collection and database maintenance; reviewing water quality data; performing calibration and maintenance of equipment; and initiating orders for field sampling and lab supplies. Other responsibilities include accurately following quality assurance and quality control procedures for collection and analysis of samples including maintaining accurate sample records; interacting with employees; setting up and maintaining stream-flow gauges; assisting with special water quality projects;

evaluating water quality data from various sources and entities for compliance with applicable standards or criteria; assisting with projects and water quality assessment reports; assisting with scheduling water quality monitoring activities; conducting cooperative efforts with other entities in fieldwork and sampling projects, including training, organizing and presenting water quality data at public meetings; and any other duties as assigned.

• Perform field sampling and lab analysis of water and biological samples following prescribed protocols.
• Set up and maintain stream-flow gauges; perform stream-flow measurements using Doppler acoustic technology to establish flow rating curves.
• Collect samples for analyses of water quality parameters and
  
  E. coli bacteria; assist with data collection and database maintenance; review water quality data.
• Calibrate and maintain equipment; initiate orders for field sampling and lab supplies.
• Follow quality assurance and quality control procedures; maintain accurate sample records.
• Coordinate with other entities on fieldwork and sampling projects; train, organize, and present water quality data at public meetings.
• Assist with special water quality projects, data evaluation, reports, and scheduling of monitoring activities; perform other duties as assigned.

• One year experience.
• Valid Texas Class C Driver's License and Good Driving Record.
• Degree in biology, environmental science or related field and a theoretical knowledge of biology, hydrology and hydraulics, geomorphology, and water quality.
• Preferred:
  Master's degree.
• Bachelors Degree (in related field) – Completed course requirements to earn a Bachelor's degree in the field related to the position and is expected to utilize this level of education during the work day to the benefit of the organization.

• Ensuring that work accomplished is accurate in all relevant aspects.
• Creating honest, trusting, and successful working relationships with others (inside and outside the organization) by consistently demonstrating competence and reliability in job performance, and representing what is best about the organization through demonstrated principles, actions, and communications.
• Handling a large amount of work efficiently and effectively.
• Working with others to share expertise and achieve outcomes that benefit the organization; stepping in to fill necessary roles that others are unable or unwilling to do; demonstrating strong communication skills to others on the team through active listening, summarizing, facilitating and "bridge building".
• Effectively adapting to tight deadlines, heavy workloads, and sudden or frequent changes in priority in order to accomplish objectives.
• Demonstrating self-motivation; effective performance is driven from within rather than being conditional on external factors.
• Acquiring and demonstrating knowledge of safety and health procedures as they relate to the human resources of the organization and the protection of property.

STARTING SALARY RANGE: $22.07 to $28.14 hourly. This is a non-exempt position.

POSTING DATE: February 12, 2026. Open until filled.

BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, Vision, TCDRS Retirement, 457/401, Life Insurance, LTD, Wellness Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, PTO, Holidays

BRAZOS RIVER AUTHORITY, EOE: The BRA was created by the Texas Legislature in 1929 and exists to develop, manage, and protect the water resources of the Brazos River Basin. Today, BRA's staff develops and distributes water supplies, provides water and wastewater treatment, monitors water quality, and pursues water…