Environmental Scientist - Spokane Tribe of Indians

Environmental Scientist - Spokane Tribe of Indians

Posted: 03/03/2026
• Expiration Date: 03/25/2026

VACANCY ANN#: STOI-26-014

DEPARTMENT: DNR – LIMNOLOGY PROGRAM

SUPERVISOR: LIMNOLOGY PROJECT MANAGER

LOCATION:

AIRWAY HEIGHTS, WA

RATE OF PAY: $26.73 - $30.61 PER HOUR

We are seeking an Environmental Scientist I to join the Spokane Tribe’s Limnology Project in support of Tribal Fisheries. This position is designed for an early-career scientist with foundational knowledge of both limnology (aquatic ecology and water quality) and reservoir hydrology (water quantity, flow, and physical limnology). A successful candidate will understand the relationship between water quality and water quantity processes and is comfortable working across both disciplines.

Familiarity with basic plankton taxonomy and ecology is also helpful.

The Environmental Scientist I will lead field sampling events during the field season (April through October), which comprises approximately 70% of workload during those months. Field work includes the collection of water quality, biological, and hydrological data throughout the Lake Roosevelt reservoir, including traditional limnological sampling (i.e. plankton tows/water sample collection) and conducting ADCP-based discharge surveys from a moving vessel. It also includes facilitating pre- and post- sampling maintenance and readiness of all equipment and supplies.

During the offseason (November through March), responsibilities shift toward assisting senior staff with data management, QA/QC procedures, technical reporting, and general program support as directed by the Limnology Project Manager.

• Function as field crew lead for limnological and hydrological data collection activities, including pre-sampling preparation and post-sampling organization.
• Supervise a small crew of technicians during boat-based and shoreline sampling events.
• Provide training and workflow instruction to technicians once fully trained.
• Lead data collection for water sample collection (Kemmerer or similar sampler) for nutrient and chemistry analyses.
• Conduct chlorophyll-a filtering in the field.
• Perform zooplankton and phytoplankton sampling using appropriate nets or integrated water sampling methods.
• Conduct water column profiling using a multiparameter data sonde.
• Document environmental and hydrological conditions including wind, wave height, and visual observations.
• Conduct hydrologic discharge transects using an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP).
• Complete and maintain field logs and chain-of-custody documentation.
• Deliver samples to analytical laboratories.
• Maintain Fisheries Program equipment including vehicles, vessels, instruments, and storage areas.
• Perform routine calibration and preventative maintenance of sampling equipment.
• Maintain inventory and maintenance logs and communicate equipment needs to the Project Manager.
• Assist with purchasing and procurement of supplies as needed.
• Assist with annual monitoring reports including figures, tables, and basic statistical summaries.
• Proofread, format, and edit technical reports.
• Occasionally review literature and summarize findings.
• Participate in outreach events when requested.
• Adhere to written SOPs, survey protocols, and safety procedures at all times.
• Safely operate Tribal vehicles and vessels in compliance with Tribal policies.
• Use professional judgment to ensure data quality and integrity.
• Other duties as assigned.

Schedule: Monday – Thursday, 10-hour shifts beginning at 6:30am. During the offseason, a five-day, 8-hour schedule may be permitted with supervisor approval.

• Foundational understanding of limnology and hydrology principles and their interaction.
• Experience conducting environmental field surveys (surface water sampling, habitat monitoring, etc.).
• Ability to learn and conduct ADCP discharge surveys (prior experience preferred but not required).
• Experience organizing and summarizing tabular datasets using basic statistics.
• Ability to lead small field crews.
• Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in variable weather conditions.
• Willingness to work…