Economic Development Associate Jobs in Tempe, AZ

Under the overall supervision of the Section Manager, the Hydrologist Associate serves as a project lead for developing and reporting regional groundwater flow models and acts as a go-to resource for others in the modeling section or the department at-large seeking modeling expertise. Whether leading a team or working independently, the Hydrologist Associate is a technical expert responsible for the development of new groundwater models across all stages of their lifecycle: from conceptualization to initial setup, testing, calibration, documentation, and application (e.g., projections).
A successful candidate is experienced in groundwater flow modeling using MODFLOW and looks to continue playing an active, hands-on role in developing ADWR's groundwater flow models. The successful candidate is well-versed in model calibration, understands the uncertainties associated with regional-scale groundwater flow modeling and long-term projections, and is looking for an opportunity to play an active role in applying and developing mechanisms for quantifying and communicating these uncertainties to decision-makers and stakeholders.

This position may offer the ability to work remotely, within Arizona, based upon the department's business needs and continual meeting of expected performance measures. A minimum of two days on-site at the ADWR office per week is required.

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State's Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

Job Duties and Responsibilities include:

• Developing new regional-scale groundwater flow models
• Generating project reports and presentations communicating model results to technical and non-technical audiences
• Providing modeling expertise to ADWR staff and outside clients
• Critically reviewing modeling reports and hydrological studies
• Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting geologic and hydrological data
• Preparing and maintaining modeling project work plans and schedules
• As needed, directing hydrologists in the development of groundwater models
• As needed, managing modeling projects conducted by outside contractors

This position requires extensive knowledge of groundwater flow modeling techniques and MODFLOW. The candidate must know how to apply inverse modeling techniques to the groundwater flow model development process and interpret statistical results for both technical and non-technical audiences.
The candidate should demonstrate skills in analyzing technical problems; using databases, spreadsheets, and GIS applications; establishing and meeting project objectives and milestones; writing technical reports; documenting groundwater flow models studies, results, and analyses; presenting analysis and results to the modeling team members and other department staff; and maintaining effective working relationships with team members, agency employees, and the public.
The candidate should have the ability to assist in the direction and coordination of hydrogeological and groundwater modeling projects of considerable complexity; interpret hydrogeologic and well data needed to review and develop conceptual groundwater models; prepare and review project deliverables, including detailed technical reports and presentations; develop and maintain project schedules; share technical skills and knowledge, and train and mentor junior technical staff as applicable; effectively communicate in both a written and oral fashion; and present analyses and results to the department staff, other agencies, and public forums.

• Proven experience leading a team in (or independently) developing new groundwater models.
• Documented experience leading a team in (or independently) performing model calibration.
• Documented technical management experience as a task or team lead.
• Strong oral and verbal communication skills, as evidenced by documented publication and technical presentation experience or other applicable experiences which demonstrate the candidate is capable of communicating modeling analysis and results to others within the modeling section, the department at large, or the public.
• Proficiency with common MODFLOW GUI environments, such as Groundwater Vistas or GMS.
• Proficiency with python, SQL, visual basic, and/or other programming languages.
• Proficiency with GIS applications such as ArcGIS or QGIS.
• Professional accreditation as a PG/RG or PE not required but preferred.

An advanced degree from an accredited college or university in hydrology, geology, hydrogeology, civil engineering, environmental engineering, or related field. Candidates with B.S./B.S.E. degrees with exceptional experience and skills may also be considered.
Eight or more years of experience in numerical groundwater modeling, advanced data analysis, or other related experience.

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

The State of Arizona provides an excellent comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans
• Top-ranked retirement and long-term disability plans
• Accrued vacation days and sick days
• 10 paid holidays per year
• Deferred compensation plan
• Credit union membership
• Wellness plans
• LinkedIn Learning membership
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee discounts
  

By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work/life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive. Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.

For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS). Please note, enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact ADWR Human Resources Office at (602) 771-8500 for assistance. Persons with disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language or an alternative format by contacting ADWR Human Resources. The Arizona State Government is an AA/EOE/ADA Reasonable Accommodation Employer.