Water Resources Management Specialist Senior

This LTE would assist in compiling, proofing, and analyzing stream physical, chemical and biological data collected from least-disturbed reference and other stream assessment sites with low levels of watershed disturbance. The resulting dataset will be used to develop stream reference condition thresholds to objectively determine if streams or stream reaches are meeting their physical, chemical, or biological potential. These thresholds can also be used to begin development of water quality standards, for those measures lacking numeric criteria.

Advanced statistical techniques and geographic information system tools will be used to determine whether existing geographic land use (e.g. Omernik Ecoregions), and stream water temperature and size (Natural Community) classifications, or combinations of these stream classifications are useful for determining proper grouping of stream populations from which to develop and to apply reference conditions.

Position Description:
1. Compile and quality check physical, chemical, and biological data from SWIMS database and watershed physical attributes from 24K Hydro Database (50%).
2. Use statistical tools (e.g. Classification and Regression Tree, Multiple Regression Tree analysis, Non-Metric Multi-Dimensional Scaling) to develop pragmatic classification schemes for physical, chemical and biological measures of stream health. (40%)
3. Assist with project documentation and reporting. (10%)

Required Qualifications: 

• Solid experience and an excellent working knowledge of water quality and water resources including an in-depth working knowledge of aquatic ecology, ecosystem challenges, and other aquatic ecology issues.
• Training and experience in data management and analysis, including statistics and statistical software packages
• Ability to present ideas (including technical information) effectively orally and in written communications
• Ability to organize work and to work independently
• Ability to manage multiple tasks related to program function and maintenance
• Strong interpersonal skills in a team setting and on an individual basis

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Knowledge and work experience in watershed monitoring and stream ecology
• Knowledge and work experience with the DNR database – SWIMS, and GIS applications