VRO - P4327 - Biologist

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Harrisonburg (VA); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Commonwealth of VA Careers is seeking a candidate for a hybrid role with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality to perform comprehensive water quality monitoring across streams, lakes, and estuaries.

You will apply biological, physical, and chemical monitoring techniques to identify impairment and ensure compliance with water quality standards, with required certifications and a valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of federal and state water quality laws and regulations.
• Background in environmental science, aquatic ecology, limnology, chemistry or hydrology.
• Experience with macroinvertebrate/fish sampling and water sampling procedures.
• Data analysis, technical writing and clear communication skills.
• Education or training in environmental sciences or related field.
• Virginia DWR boat operator safety training or equivalent licensing.
• Plan to obtain genus-level eastern EPT certification within ~1 year.

Responsibilities

• Conduct biological, physical and chemical monitoring where regionally appropriate.
• Perform monitoring modules such as probabilistic monitoring, reference sites, and lake monitoring.
• Support Benthic surveys, Chesapeake Bay Program activities and HABs/fish kill studies.

Skills

Water quality monitoring procedures

Data analysis & technical writing

Boat operation & field sampling

Regulatory knowledge

Valid driver's license

Education

Bachelor's in environmental science

Job description

Hiring Range: $60,000 - $80,000

Full Time or Part Time: FULL TIME

JOB DESCRIPTION

This position will primarily conduct a variety of biological, physical, and water quality (chemical) monitoring programs in the commonwealth’s streams, lakes, and estuaries to ascertain compliance with DEQ’s Water Quality Standards and to detect, identify, and define the extent of benthic (and habitat) impairment and water quality problems. Please note this position follows a hybrid work schedule to include both in-office and telework. Candidates must be able to work from the assigned work location in Virginia.

RESPONSIBILITIES

This position will conduct biological, and/or physical, and/or chemical monitoring including the following monitoring modules when regionally appropriate: Probabilistic Monitoring, Reference Site Selections, Network (spring/fall) Monitoring, Lake Monitoring, TMDL Monitoring Studies/Surveys, Benthic Surveys, Chesapeake Bay Program, PReP, Hazardous Algae Blooms (HABs) and Fish Kills.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations related to water quality.
• Knowledge of environmental science, aquatic ecology, limnology, chemistry, and hydrology.
• Knowledge, experience, or education regarding macroinvertebrate/fish taxonomy, macroinvertebrate sampling, water sampling procedures and equipment, boat and trailer operation.
• Knowledge, experience, or education related to data analysis, technical writing, and communication.
• A combination of education or training with major coursework in environmental sciences, natural resources, aquatic ecology or related field.
• Virginia DWR boat operator safety training certificate and/or meet the licensing requirements in accordance with the Code of Virginia.
• The employee will obtain genus-level certification for eastern EPT taxa from the Society for Freshwater Science within approximately one year of employment. Employee must maintain certification for duration of employment (re-certification required every 5 years).
• This position may require you to operate a state owned or leased vehicle. Therefore, a valid driver's license is required.

ABOUT US

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the primary environmental permitting agency in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is responsible for administering laws and regulations related to air quality, water quality, water supply, renewable energy, and land protection. Through the dedication and work of over 800 employees across six regional offices and the Central Office in Richmond, DEQ issues permits, conducts monitoring and inspections, and enforces the law.