Environmental Hydrogeologist 1-2

State of Arizona; Phoenix (AZ); Remote; USD 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A state government agency in Phoenix, AZ, seeks an Environmental Hydrogeologist to manage the remediation of abandoned hardrock mines, ensuring compliance with environmental standards. The role involves outdoor work, collaboration with consultants, and project management skills. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and experience in environmental sciences. This position offers flexibility with telework options and a strong benefits package.

Benefits

Paid holidays

Accrual of sick and annual leave

Paid parental leave

Lifetime pension benefits

Affordable insurance

Public transportation subsidy

Work/life balance opportunities

Qualifications

• Comfortable working outdoors in remote settings.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple long-term projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop soil and stream sampling plans.
• Oversee external consultants for project delivery.
• Guide the preparation of permit applications.

Skills

Outdoor work comfort

Environmental law knowledge

Project management knowledge

Interpersonal skills

Watershed science awareness

Technical evaluations proficiency

GIS tools experience

Clear technical communication

Analytical skills

Multi-project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in relevant field

Tools

ArcGIS

Trello

G Suite

Job description

DEPT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

We are looking for results-oriented, driven individuals with a thirst for problem solving. At the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) our mission is to protect and enhance public health and the environment in Arizona through consistent, science-based environmental regulation and clear, equitable engagement and communication, with integrity, respect and the highest standards of effectiveness and efficiency. Because Arizonans treasure the unique environment of our state and its essential role in sustaining well-being and economic vitality, today and for future generations.

We are currently looking for employees who are committed to our Agency, passionate to excel in their career and engaged in our mission. This caliber of employee will be successful in driving our Agency towards accomplishing our mission Environmental Hydrogeologist 1-2

Job Location: Address: 1110 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Water Quality Division Posting Details: Salary: Level 1 $60K-$65K; Level 2 $65K-$70K. Grade: 21, 22. Closing Date: Open until filled.

Job Summary:

The Watershed Improvement Unit in the Water Quality Division is looking for a Hydrogeologist to remediate abandoned hardrock mines that are polluting rivers and streams. The Hydrogeologist will be responsible for reviewing and evaluating remedial designs, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and providing technical expertise to address the environmental and public health risks associated with abandoned hardrock mines. The Hydrogeologist will work with a multidisciplinary team to assess, plan, and execute remediation projects. This role plays a key part in protecting and enhancing Arizona’s waterbodies for the enjoyment of people and wildlife.

This position offers telework options, but fieldwork is required (expect 70% office, 30% field). Fieldwork can include hiking to remote locations, carrying equipment, being exposed to the elements, and occasional overnight travel. All fieldwork is conducted in pairs or groups.

This position is available for remote work on a full-time basis within Arizona (including virtual office arrangements).

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State’s Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

Job Duties:

• Develop and execute soil and stream sampling plans to quantify the extent of contamination
• Deploy and use technology to collect data, such as weirs, flow gauges, multiparameter probes, Arduino sensors, handheld XRF analyzers, game cameras, and data loggers
• Oversee and manage external consultants to deliver projects on time, within scope, and on or under budget
• Build and monitor accurate project schedules; track costs throughout the project’s lifecycle
• Foster relationships with private landowners and federal and state agencies to gain access to abandoned mines; negotiate access agreements
• Write and issue scopes of work; review project proposals; make procurement decisions
• Collaborate with external consultants to create remediation plans, evaluate project risks and propose mitigation measures
• Assist the design and review of remediation systems, including water treatment, soil stabilization measures, stormwater controls, and physical safety solutions
• Guide external consultants in preparing and submitting permit applications for remediation projects to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations
• Quantify the impacts of completed projects on stream quality, including chemistry and biological indicators
• Build and improve upon processes and workflows utilizing Lean methodology

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs)

• Comfortable working in the outdoors in remote field settings
• Knowledge of environmental laws, such as the Clean Water Act, National Historic Preservation Act, and Endangered Species Act
• Knowledge of or familiarity with the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK)
• Strong interpersonal skills with relationship-building experience
• Familiarity with watershed science and best management practices
• Proficiency in conducting technical evaluations
• Experience using GIS tools such as ArcGIS, Field Maps, and Survey123
• Ability to clearly communicate technical subject matter
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple long-term projects and to coordinate and prioritize tasks with competing deadlines
• Experience in using virtual collaboration and visual management tools such as Trello and G Suite

Selective Preference(s)

• Hydrogeologist 1: Bachelor’s degree or higher in related field and 2-4 years of experience
• Hydrogeologist 2: Bachelor’s degree or higher in related field and 2-4 years of experience. Master’s or Doctorate degree may substitute for 2 years of experience
• Geologist-In-Training certification is not required but may be preferred

Pre-Employment Requirements

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply:

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits

• Among the many benefits of a career with the State of Arizona, there are: 10 paid holidays per year
• Accrual of sick and annual leave beginning at 12 and 13 days per year respectively for full-time employees
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program)
• A top-ranked retirement program with lifetime pension benefits
• A robust and affordable insurance plan to include medical, dental, life, short-term and long-term disability
• An incentivized commuter club and public transportation subsidy program
• Work/life balance through workplace flexibility
• Learning and career development opportunities

By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work/life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive. Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program. For a complete list of benefits provided by the State of Arizona, please visit the benefits page.

Retirement

ASRS Lifetime Benefits

Contact Us

Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting [e-mail]. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation. The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer.