Environmental/Natural Resources Specialist I

State of Mississippi; Gulfport (MS); On-site; USD 40,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Mississippi - Environmental/Natural Resources Specialist I in Harrison County, MS. The role conducts microbial analyses for beach and coastal programs, including qPCR DNA extraction and RESTORE project work. The candidate applies established methods, manages supplies, and ensures data quality in environmental monitoring.

Typically requires a Bachelor's degree with 0-1 year of related experience. Questions may be directed to [e-mail] as part of the agency's environmental

Qualifications

• Typically requires a Bachelor's Degree and 0-1 year of experience.
• Candidate well versed in Microbiology and Molecular Analysis.
• Experience with qPCR methods preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct microbial analyses for Beach Monitoring and Coastal Water Quality Improvement programs.
• Perform qPCR DNA extraction and analysis for RESTORE projects focused on microbial source tracking.
• Apply established lab methods while handling supplies and equipment.
• Maintain and validate laboratory protocols for quality control and environmental monitoring.
• Perform analyses on samples following sterilization procedures.
• Maintain accurate records and document results to ensure data reliability.

Skills

Microbiology

Molecular Analysis

qPCR methods

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

qPCR

Job description

Environmental/Natural Resources Specialist I in 24 - HARRISON COUNTY, MS

State of Mississippi

$39,510.00 - $59,049.90 Annually

Location

24 - HARRISON COUNTY, MS

Job Number

9408-0471-20261023Hn

0471 - ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Opening Date

10/29/2026

11/6/2026 at 11:59 PM Central Time (US & Canada)

Agency Minimum Salary

$39,510.00

$59,049.90

What you'll need to be Successful

The candidate needs to be motivated to learning new molecular procedures.

The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is responsible for protecting the state's air, land, and water. Our mission is to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of present and future generations of Mississippians by conserving and improving our environment and fostering wise economic growth through focused research and responsible regulation. For questions related to this position, please email Anna Godfrey at [e-mail]

About the Position

• Conduct microbial analyses for the Beach Monitoring Program and Coastal Water Quality Improvement Program to assess coastal water quality.
• Perform qPCR DNA extraction and analysis for RESTORE projects focused on microbial source tracking.
• Apply established research methods and laboratory procedures while handling laboratory supplies, materials, and equipment.
• Maintain and validate laboratory protocols to ensure compliance with quality control standards and environmental monitoring requirements.
• Perform laboratory analyses on samples and materials following appropriate sterilization procedures.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, document analytical results, and conduct testing to ensure data accuracy and reliability.

Preferred Qualifications

Typically requires a Bachelor's Degree and 0-1 year of experience. Agency preferred qualifications:An educated and experienced candidate well versed in Microbiology and Molecular Analysis. The candidate with experience with qPCR methods is preferred.

See MSPB Careers for information regarding this classifications

Employer State of Mississippi

Address 210 East Capitol Street
Suite 800
Jackson, Mississippi, 39201