Environmental Technician I

Water Quality AnalystSalary: $25.31 - $37.97 per hourCollect water quality samples from District reservoirs and associated watersheds, and the Fort Worth floodway system. Maintain equipment necessary for sampling. Assess and analyze water quality data collected.Essential Functions and Responsibilities:Weekly calibration and maintenance of water quality analyzers on pipeline systemsMaintain equipment and supplies necessary to insure data reliability of water quality analyzersCollect water and soil samples of lakes, pipelines, tributaries, and treatment wetland systemsDeliver samples to laboratory for analysisCalibration of water quality sondesAssist with monthly UST inspections and annual TCEQ registrationAssist with weekly sampling and laboratory analysis of samples from wetland projectsAssist in operation and maintenance of wetland systems including valve manipulation, weir gate adjustments, and flow measurementsPrepare and manage equipment necessary for sampling and analysisPerform data analysis and updates using water quality dataInvestigate pollution concerns, collect samples, and document findingsTrack and document data from collection through final electronic storageRequires the ability to spot pollution problems and respond accordinglyExcellent oral and written communication skillsAssist in hazardous material investigationsScan environmental documents for records managementMaintain familiarity with strategic District levels of serviceContinuous improvement monitoring and innovation effortsPerform other duties as requiredRequired Experience:Less than one (1) year of related experienceThe ability to communicate effectively with public and local contacts during office and field work to represent the District accuratelyProficiency in Microsoft Office with basic knowledge of Word and ExcelProficiency in water quality sampling and current SWQM procedures within one year of starting this positionDesired Experience:Experience hauling a boat trailerBoat operation experienceExperience with in-situ water quality analyzersWater laboratory techniques and proceduresExperience using water quality sondesKnowledge and experience working in Microsoft AccessRequired Education/Certification/License:Bachelor's Degree – preferably in biology, chemistry, environmental science, or related field. Three (3) years of experience in water sampling plus an Associate's Degree may substitute for the B.S. DegreeValid Texas driver's licenseDesired Education/Certification/License:NoneSuccess Factors/Job Competencies:Self-motivated - This position requires the ability to work independently and accomplish assigned tasks in a timely mannerCritical Thinking - This position requires the ability to identify erroneous or problematic values and readings in the field and be able to identify potential causes and solutionsProductivity - This position requires sampling events to be completed according to a schedule and assigned projects be completed in a timely mannerDetail-Oriented - Collection of accurate, reliable data is the goal of this position. There are specific guidelines for collection and storage of samples that need to be followed every time. There is a lot of numeric data collected, and attention to detail throughout data entry and analysis is critical for successful understanding of the data collectedMechanical Inclination - In this position, there are various types of equipment that are required in order to complete the required work. It requires attention to the care and use of the equipment and the ability to identify equipment malfunctions and resolve in the field if possibleCommunication - This position requires communication with internal District personnel and the general publicTeamwork -This position often requires teamwork in order to complete the required field work. It is important to be able to work and communicate with others in order to achieve common goalsPhysical Demands and Work EnvironmentThe physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Physical demands: While performing duties of job, employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hand to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; kneel; squat; bend; talk and hear. Employees must repeatedly lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Requires ability to swim and walk on uneven terrain for extended periods.Work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee typically conducts fieldwork that will expose the employee to weather conditions prevalent at the time and will occasionally reside within an office or cubicle. A sizable portion of fieldwork will require driving 150 miles in a day.