Research Scientist 1 (Water Pollution)

Environmental Conservation, Department of; City of Albany (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is seeking a Research Scientist 1 (Water Pollution) to conduct applied research and data analysis on water quality across New York State, focusing on streams, lakes, and groundwater.

The role involves coordinating with permit staff, developing assessment tools, analyzing data, and preparing publications and reports to inform water quality management and compliance with state and federal standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus two years of professional research experience.
• Experience with study design, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting chemical, physical, and biological environmental data.
• Understanding of State and Federal regulations and water quality standards.
• Experience with data analysis tools (R, GIS, SQL) preferred.
• Valid driver's license and ability to work in remote areas and adverse weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research and data analysis on water quality monitoring in streams, lakes, and groundwater across New York State.
• Coordinate with permit staff and develop water quality assessment tools.
• Prepare publications and reports to support regulatory decisions.

Skills

Study design

Data analysis

Data interpretation

Understanding environmental regs

Valid driver's license

Remote work ability

Education

Bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, biology, environmental chemistry, limnology, or related natural resources field

Tools

R

GIS

SQL

Job description

The Research Scientist 1 (Water Pollution) position supports the Monitoring and Assessment Section of the Department of Environmental Conservation's Bureau of Water Assessment and Management. The role focuses on conducting applied research and data analysis on water quality monitoring in streams, lakes, and groundwater across New York State, with emphasis on total dissolved solids and benthic macroinvertebrates. Responsibilities include coordinating with permit staff, developing water quality assessment tools, analyzing data, and preparing publications and reports.

Key qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, biology, environmental chemistry, limnology, or related natural resources field, plus two years of professional research experience
• Experience with study design, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting chemical, physical, and biological environmental data
• Understanding of State and Federal regulations and water quality standards
• Experience with data analysis tools (R, GIS, SQL) preferred
• Valid driver's license and ability to work in remote areas and adverse weather conditions