Position: BTNEP Water Quality Scientist
Organization: BTNEP
Location: Thibodaux, LA
Deadline: Dec. 17

The Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP) invites applications for the full-time position of Water Quality Scientist (WQS).

About the Organization

The Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP) is one of 28 National Estuary Programs throughout the United States and its territories. Congress established the National Estuary Program (NEP) through section 320 of the Clean Water Act in 1987. The Barataria-Terrebonne estuarine complex became a National Estuary Program in 1990. BTNEP was established in recognition of the national significance of this estuarine system.

BTNEP works to protect and restore the culture, land, and ecosystems located between the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers in Southeastern Louisiana. We are a partnership of government, business, scientists, conservation organizations, and individuals for the protection and restoration of the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary.

About the Position

The BTNEP WQS will work under the supervision of the Senior Research Scientist and work on water quality projects within the BTNEP program area. The WQS will be responsible for collecting water quality samples, writing reports, and conducting educational outreach to the public. A strong scientific background, organizational skills, writing skills, and the ability to work as part of a team are the characteristics expected in the WQS.

Duties & Responsibilities

Water Quality Sampling & Transportation of samples to Laboratory
The WQS will record in-situ water quality data, collect grab samples, and deliver grab samples to laboratories for analysis with the assistance of interns, volunteers, or other BTNEP staff at designated points within targeted watersheds on a semi-monthly (2x/month) basis. The WQS will be responsible for the maintenance and calibration of the Hydrolab Compact DS5 water quality sonde used for in-situ water quality monitoring.

Data Management &Reporting
The WQS will be responsible for entering data into and maintaining a database that includes in-situ field parameters and laboratory analyses. The WQS will be responsible for submitting quarterly monitoring, semi-annual, and final reports to each of the granting agencies.

Educational Outreach & Additional Tasks
The WQS will be responsible for conducting education and outreach to the general public about water quality at various venues throughout the year. The WQS will also be required to make scientific-technical presentations to audiences at meetings and conferences. If funding and time permits, there may be opportunities to attend training related to water quality.

Education & Experience

Required

  • B.S./M.S. degree in biological, agricultural, or environmental sciences or a related
    scientific field
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Ability to carry sampling equipment, lift ice chests, and work long hours outdoors yearround in the Louisiana climate
  • Ability to carry out field monitoring, drive long distances for sample delivery, and complete grab sample chain of custody requirements according to project QA/QC standards
  • Experience working with spreadsheets in excel or equivalent programs
  • Exceptional organizational skills
  • Strong oral and writing communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and manage time effectively

Preferred

  • Experience with surface water quality monitoring
  • Experience with geographic information systems
  • Experience managing databases
  • Experience working in a biological laboratory setting
  • Experience with social media platforms

Benefits

  • Paid holidays
  • Paid vacation days
  • Paid sick leave
  • Retirement
  • Health Insurance

Application

To apply, submit a cover letter and a resume in PDF format to Siva Nunna via email siva@btnep.org.