Water Quality Modeler

Overview: 

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is seeking an experienced water quality modeler to assist in the development and implementation of Total Maximum Daily Loads for nutrients, sediment, and bacteria affecting lakes, rivers, and streams throughout the state.  This position will be an integral part of a team of scientists working out of the headquarters office in downtown Madison.

Job Duties:

This position will work closely with other scientists in the Bureau of Water Quality to identify and implement water quality models for all Department-initiated TMDLs and to evaluate proposals for modeling activities associated with external Third Party TMDLs.  This position will also assist in the identification of data needs to facilitate the collection of field data to support TMDL modeling efforts and to calibrate and validate case-specific variations of existing models. This position requires extensive knowledge and significant expertise in water quality modeling as well as experience in the evaluation and communication of pollutant impacts to surface water quality.

Skills Required:

• Water quality modeling skills with specific training in use of the Soil & Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) Model.

• Knowledge of engineering principles associated with the fate and transport of pollutants that contribute to poor water quality.

• Working knowledge of agricultural and urban best management practices for the purpose of reducing pollutant loads to surface waters.

• Knowledge of GIS technology with specific training in the use of ArcGIS software.

• Ability to use personal computers and software included in the Microsoft Office Suite.

• Applied experience or formal training in the principles of project management.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective team working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, public officials, advisory committees and members of the general public.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Required Qualifications:

To be eligible for this position, a candidate must posess: 1) Registration as a Professional Engineer; or 2) Certification as an Engineer-in-Training; or 3) Graduate of a recognized college or university with a degree in a related field of study such as civil, electrical, environment, or mechanical engineering.