Environmental Technician

www.iowanation.org/employment

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Environmental Technician collaborates with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to support environmental initiatives, conducting fieldwork, and implementing programs for compliance and conservation. They oversee the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma’s stream assessment program, ensuring adherence to Clean Water Act goals. Responsibilities include data collection, habitat assessments, and collaborating on grant writing and budget planning for sustainability efforts.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to support environmental initiatives and programs aimed at compliance and conservation.
• Oversee the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma’s stream assessment program to ensure adherence to Clean Water Act goals and objectives.
• Conduct fieldwork and environmental sampling in streams and other natural habitats to collect data on water quality, habitat conditions, and biodiversity.
• Perform habitat assessments to identify areas of environmental concern and prioritize conservation efforts.
• Collaborate with team members and stakeholders to develop and implement sustainable environmental programs and practices.
• Assist in grant writing and budget planning to secure funding for environmental sustainability projects and initiatives.
• Monitor environmental compliance with regulatory standards set forth by the EPA and other relevant agencies.
• Analyze environmental data and interpret findings to assess the effectiveness of conservation efforts and identify areas for improvement.
• Maintain accurate records of environmental data, observations, and sampling results for reporting purposes.
• Provide support for environmental education and outreach activities to promote awareness and engagement within the community.
• Conduct routine sampling and testing of water and sediment to assess pollution levels and identify sources of contamination.
• Assist in the maintenance and calibration of field equipment and laboratory instruments to ensure accurate data collection.
• Respond to environmental emergencies, such as chemical spills or hazardous material releases, by following established protocols and procedures.
• Participate in environmental impact assessments and audits to identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Undertake routine weekly recycling pick-ups and periodic deliveries, along with recycling outreach.
• Collaborate with department director, tribal leadership, government agencies, and community partners to foster partnerships and advance environmental conservation efforts.
• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Strong knowledge of environmental regulations, particularly the Clean Water Act and other relevant legislation.
• Proficiency in conducting fieldwork and environmental sampling techniques.
• Ability to analyze environmental data and interpret findings accurately.
• Experience in habitat assessments and prioritizing conservation efforts.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for collaborating with team members, stakeholders, and writing grant proposals.
• Grant writing and budget planning experience for sustainability projects.
• Familiarity with environmental compliance standards set by regulatory agencies.
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records of environmental data.
• Commitment to environmental education and outreach activities within the community.
• Ability to conduct routine water and sediment sampling and testing.
• Proficiency in maintaining and calibrating field equipment and laboratory instruments.
• Capacity to respond effectively to environmental emergencies following established protocols.
• Experience participating in environmental impact assessments and audits.
• Strong interpersonal skills for building partnerships with tribal leadership, government agencies, and community partners.
• Flexibility and adaptability to perform other duties as assigned in support of environmental initiatives.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, or related field preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting fieldwork and environmental sampling, preferably in aquatic ecosystems.
• Experience in habitat assessments and prioritizing conservation efforts, demonstrated through coursework projects or previous work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to conduct fieldwork in various outdoor environments, including streams and natural habitats.
• Capacity to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds for field sampling and data collection.
• Capability to traverse uneven terrain and withstand exposure to varying weather conditions.
• Agility and physical stamina to perform tasks such as setting up sampling equipment and navigating through dense vegetation.
• Adequate vision and manual dexterity for precise data collection and instrument operation in field and laboratory settings.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Successful completion of applicable tribal drug test.
• Successful completion of applicable tribal background check.
• Must pass background investigation for suitability of character identified in accordance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license with no serious violations.