Wetland Hydrologist Job ID 83429

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

Under general supervision, this position implements the Clean Water Act Section 401 program for most metallic mineral mining projects and other projects with complex hydrology. This position coordinates with water resource specialists across multiple agency programs, especially the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s (MPCA) Clean Water Act Section 401 Certification program, the MPCA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)/State Disposal System (SDS) program (Clean Water Act Section 402), the Department of Natural Resource’s (DNR) Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) Permit to Mine program, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) permits program (Clean Water Act Section 404).  Specific areas of coordination include hydrology reviews, developing enforceable permit conditions, and ensuring mitigation and monitoring requirements are based on the best-available science.  It requires knowledge of the principles of hydrology, hydraulics, hydrogeology, land use planning, local, state and federal water law, rules and programs, principles and practices of water resources management, permitting and enforcement.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in one of the following areas: Hydrology, Geology, Hydrogeology, Water Resources Management, Soil Science, Environmental Science, or other closely-related environmental field; and two completed courses in Hydrology/Hydrogeology. [Candidates must list the two courses in Hydrology/Hydrogeology on their resume to qualify]

AND

Two years of professional experience as a Hydrologist or equivalent. Experience must include water quality or wetland function assessment.

WITH

Basic computer skills; proficiency in Word and exposure to Excel and Power Point.

Ability to gain a complete understanding of the environmental regulatory process and procedures.

Good communication skills and the ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with internal and external business partners.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated ability to bring projects to a satisfactory conclusion. Problem-solving skills for resolving complex technical matters.

Experience writing draft regulatory decision documents.

Experience communicating with tribal government counterparts on natural resource management issues.

Proven written and verbal communication and human relations skills to communicate effectively with diverse audiences. 

Advanced technical writing skills related to water quality, wetland science, or mining projects.

Proficiency with GIS.

Ability to make environmental regulatory decisions based on data.

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally lifting and/or carrying such articles as file folders, ledgers, and small equipment. Although a sedentary job is defined as one which involves sitting, a certain amount of walking and standing is often necessary in carrying out job duties.

Additional Requirements

Position duties may require travel but driving is not a minimum qualification or essential function of this position. Employees who may drive for state business will need their driver’s license checked prior to operating a state vehicle.

About Pollution Control Agency 

Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions.