Water Quality Field Specialist & Data Steward

Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; Grand Portage (MN); On-site; USD 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa seeks a Water Quality Specialist to lead field monitoring, data management, and regulatory review. The role protects surface waters across the Grand Portage Reservation, including the Lake Superior shoreline, through hands-on sampling and program compliance.

You will plan seasonal monitoring, deploy field equipment, collect samples, manage data, run reports for Tribal Council, and provide community outreach.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in water resources, hydrology, environmental science, chemistry, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in water quality or related area.
• Field monitoring experience with sondes and Secchi disks.
• Working knowledge of water chemistry and EPA program requirements.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to remote sites.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data management.

Responsibilities

• Lead field monitoring and data management for surface waters.
• Conduct seasonal water quality monitoring on lakes, streams, and Lake Superior shoreline.
• Deploy and calibrate multiparameter sondes; measure transparency with Secchi disks.
• Collect and manage samples and ensure chain-of-custody.
• Enter and upload data to EPA WQX and prepare annual assessments.
• Provide outreach and education to community; train staff.

Skills

Field monitoring experience

Excel skills

Data entry accuracy

Education

Bachelor’s degree in water resources, hydrology, environmental science, chemistry, or related field

Tools

Multiparameter sondes

Secchi disks

Water sample handling

Job description

Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa seeks a Water Quality Specialist to lead field monitoring, data management, and regulatory review. The role protects surface waters across the Grand Portage Reservation, including the Lake Superior shoreline, through hands-on sampling and program compliance.

You will plan seasonal monitoring, deploy field equipment, collect samples, manage data, run reports for Tribal Council, and provide community outreach.