19-60- Hydrologist I TexMesonet Field Coordinator

Performs routine (journey-level) hydrological, meteorological, and earth science work and provides technical and field support for the TexMesonet program, which operates and maintains a network of earth observations stations across Texas. Work involves construction, calibration, and maintenance of stations; coordination, preparation, and execution of fieldwork; use of GIS applications to assist in site identification and prioritization; and developing working relationships with landowners, private contractors, university professors, and hardware vendors to facilitate station deployment and meteorological data collection. This job requires extensive travel. May train others. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the Manager of the TexMesonet & Hydrosurvey department within the Surface Water Division.

·        Constructs, calibrates, and maintains earth observation stations.

·        Coordinates fieldwork, including scheduling, preparing, and executing field trips relating to the production, deployment, and maintenance of earth observation stations.

·        Performs or coordinates routine maintenance of capital equipment, including trucks and trailers.

·        Develops and ensures field safety procedures are followed.

·        Maintains TexMesonet station database.

·        Provides LoggerNet and datalogger support.

·        Provides geographic analysis and cartographic support, including line-of-sight maps for proposed earth observation stations.

·        Assists in preparing equipment for site installations.

·        Maintains and prepares records and reports and assists with presenting technical evaluations and plans.

·        Maintains confidential and sensitive information.

·        Ensures individual and team files (electronic and hard versions) are appropriately maintained and timely disposed of in accordance with the agency’s records retention procedures and schedule.

·        Maintains required certifications and licenses and meets the continuing education needs and requirements of the position to include, attending mandatory training courses.

·        May be required to operate a state or personal vehicle for business purposes, including the transport of trailers and equipment.

·        Requires work outdoors, possibly during inclement weather or under hot/cold temperatures.

·        Performs other duties as assigned.        

·        Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with coursework in Atmospheric Sciences, Water Resources, or a related field.

·        One year of work experience in Meteorology, Atmospheric Sciences, Water Resources or a related field.

·        Relevant education and experience can be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

·        Previous experience in coordinating fieldwork involving Meteorology or Water Resources.

·        Previous experience in designing and installing electronic instrumentation systems.

·        Previous experience in Geographic Information Systems.

·        Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to the TexMesonet & Hydrosurvey department and of the principles and practices of public administration.

·        Knowledge of meteorology or atmospheric sciences.

·        Knowledge of mesonets or earth observation station networks.

·        Knowledge of electronic instrumentation and communications systems.

·        Knowledge of applicable field safety procedures.

·        Skills in using Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, and Access.

·        Skills in use of internet, email, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software.

·        Skills in cartography, GIS software, and other design software.

·        Skills in collecting and assessing hydrological data.

·        Skills in using logic and reason to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

·        Skills in diagnosing and repairing electronic instrumentation and communications systems.

·        Ability to haul trailers up to 20’ in length.

·        Ability to fabricate specialized equipment for field work applications.

·        Ability to plan and coordinate projects.

·        Ability to maintain shared databases.

·        Ability to adhere to work schedules, follow procedures with respect to leave and submit accurate timesheets by prescribed deadlines.

·        Ability to make mature, objective decisions and identify areas of potential problems.

·        Ability to perform effectively and willingly when changes occur in scope and nature of the work and work environment.

·        Ability to perform routine and non-routine work assignments accurately and on-time with little or no supervision.

·        Ability to perform assigned duties and improve work habits and/or output.

·        Ability to complete assigned work, on time, neatly and with infrequent errors.

·        Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and regulations.

·        Ability to provide prompt, courteous and accurate assistance and clear and concise communication to internal and external stakeholders both verbally and in writing.

·        Ability to work and cooperate with others in a team environment.

·        Ability to manage multiple tasks.

·        Ability to stand/sit/move with no physical limitations or aids to perform activities such as retrieve/replace files in a large file system for boxes up to 50 lbs.

·        Ability and willingness to travel 75% of the time, primarily within the State of Texas.

·        Ability to operate a vehicle (state or personal) for state business and maintain a driver’s license and driving record that complies with state and agency requirements.

·        Ability to work days that may exceed 8 hours, including early mornings, nights, and weekends.

·        Ability to train others.