Watershed Ecologist I

Job Closes March 26, 2023

SUMMARY:

Responsible for assigned duties aimed at implementing and maintaining the River Authority's automated monitoring, stormwater monitoring, and water quality collection programs, assessing the biological diversity of instream, riparian and terrestrial communities and analyzing the overall ecological health of the San Antonio River basin.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

• Installs, calibrates, maintains, operates, troubleshoots and tests all department automated water quality and stormwater monitoring equipment per River Authority standard operating procedures and manufacturer instructions.
• Collects, preserves and delivers stormwater and routine water quality samples according to Quality Assurance Project Plans, River Authority standard operating procedures and other project specific requirements.
• Monitors local weather for qualifying precipitation events on a rotational basis and initiates field collection crews and activities as required including coordination with external consultants for proper sample and data collection.
• Assists in the investigation, monitoring and remediation of conditions that may be hazardous to the ecology of the basin, pose threats to public health and safety, infringe on River Authority property rights and/or violate ordinances.
• Assists with Phase I Environmental Site Assessments as required.
• Assists in performing aquatic surveys including qualitative and quantitative freshwater mussel surveys, a wide variety of fisheries assessments, aquatic invertebrate surveys and invasive species monitoring and removal.
• Assists in performing and developing instream, riparian and terrestrial vegetation and habitat surveys.
• Routinely conducts basic data analysis in support of various projects and efforts within the San Antonio River basin.
• Collaborates with River Authority personnel, other agencies, consultants and the general public on special studies, stormwater activities and pollution investigations.
• Presents a positive image for the River Authority when interacting with stakeholders, constituents and participates in outreach and education events to promote natural resources stewardship.
• Produces written reports; makes presentations as directed.
• All other duties as assigned.

The absence of specific statements of duties does not exclude those tasks from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment of the position

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENT:

This position does not directly supervise any employees.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

An undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university in Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biological, Ecology or a relevant discipline and six (6) months of progressively responsible environmental field experience is required; or a combination of experience and education that results in the required knowledge, skills and abilities is required.

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of general ecological principles and concepts; ability to collect/observe and identify organisms; ability to keep accurate, legible records; a thorough knowledge of environmental sample handling, sample hold time, and preservation requirements; ability to swim; and proficiency in the current Microsoft Office package is required; proficiency in statistical analysis software is preferred.

Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and an insurable driving record.

LANGUAGE AND REASONING SKILLS:

Ability to effectively interact with stakeholders and constituents; ability to understand written or oral instructions; read, analyze, and interpret documents, instruction manuals, policies, and procedures is essential. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and verbally, analyze and solve problems, interpretations, and keep accurate legible records. Strong interpersonal skills are essential to maintain effective working relationships with agency representatives, civic groups, employees, and members of the public. The ability to work effectively and efficiently, under sometimes stressful conditions, to ensure deadlines are met is essential.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Work requires the ability to traverse uneven terrain, and intermittently walk, stand, climb, balance, bend, crouch and reach while performing work duties. Regularly and safely lifts, carries, and handles supplies and equipment weighing at least 40 pounds. Occasionally lifts and carries up to 50 pounds approximately 15 feet. Must be able to wade into bodies of water; must be able to work in waders while performing work duties.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Work is primarily performed outdoors, sometimes in extreme or adverse weather, and is exposed to such typical hazards of outdoor work as poison ivy, wasps, snakes, and other natural and mechanical hazards. Occasionally work is performed indoors and requires observance of safe work practices, fire regulations, and avoidance of falls, trips, and similar office work hazards. Must be able to travel within and outside the district.

The stress level for this position is moderate and the workload often requires this position to work weekends, holidays, and unusual times of the day or night in response to stormwater sampling or pollution investigation activities. Must be able to perform in a small but highly professional team-oriented environment.

Must be able to function in a principle-based organization that has a culture built on character and River Authority Core Values of Stewardship, Integrity, and Excellence.