Lead Scientist, Water Quality (Flexible Scheduling)

Climate Adaptation Knowledge Exchange; Lawrence (MA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Merrimack River Watershed Council (MRWC) seeks a full-time Lead Scientist for the Water Quality Program in Lawrence, MA. This role drives research design, monitoring expansion, and program development to protect the Merrimack River watershed.

The Lead Scientist will supervise staff and volunteers, coordinate with partners, and shape long-term investigations. Responsibilities include supervising the Water Quality Program, data handling, and reporting; designing large-scale studies; engaging

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related field with relevant work experience.

Responsibilities

• Supervise the Water Quality Program and WQPM staff.
• Oversee data collection, QA/QC, and upload to the WQX database.
• Maintain monitoring equipment and supply inventory.
• Lead data analysis and annual reporting.
• Present findings to local, state and federal partners.
• Design and implement large-scale multi-year investigations.
• Convene stakeholder advisory committees.
• Mentor junior scientists and promote safety culture.

Skills

Project management

Data analysis

Interpersonal communication

Scientific study design

Data visualization tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related field

Master’s degree in environmental science or related field

Tools

R, Tableau, Visual Basic, ArcGIS

Job description

The Merrimack River Watershed Council (MRWC) seeks a full-time Lead Scientist for the Water Quality Program in Lawrence, MA. This role drives research design, monitoring expansion, and program development to protect the Merrimack River watershed.

The Lead Scientist will supervise staff and volunteers, coordinate with partners, and shape long-term investigations. Responsibilities include supervising the Water Quality Program, data handling, and reporting; designing large-scale studies; engaging