The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Water Quality’s Watershed Management Program has three summer employment opportunities available for students or recent graduates interested in gaining experience in environmental science. Summer employment with the Department of Environmental Quality allows individuals to gain and apply degree-related knowledge and work experience.

Two positions will assist with various sampling activities listed below and one position will coordinate Harmful Algal Bloom response activities along with Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) sampling associated with priority waterbodies.

These positions are seasonal and typically run from mid-May through mid-August but start/end dates are flexible. Overtime hours are likely and will be paid at time and a half.

Summary of Work

Job responsibilities include a wide variety of water quality and biological monitoring activities. Primary work activities include:

• Lake and river water quality sampling across the state.
• Sampling and processing of aquatic biota including fish, macroinvertebrates and algae using nets, electrofishing gear and other related equipment.
• Collection and sample preparation of fish for tissue analysis.
• Respond to calls/inquiries and follow-up activities associated with the Harmful Algal Bloom (HABs) Surveillance Program.
• These positions will also include office and laboratory work, including entering data in various water quality databases, cleaning and maintaining field equipment and the preparation and preservation of samples for laboratory analysis.

Minimum Qualifications

Students enrolled in a college or university, or recent graduates majoring in biology, the environmental sciences, or in natural resource management with coursework in chemistry, biology, geology, ecology, or other related physical or natural science.

Application Procedures

Applicants must complete the online application for employment and upload a resume, cover letter, and college transcripts (official or unofficial) via the Careers site: http://www.nd.gov./omb/jobs. All application materials must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on the closing date.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Sponsorships will not be considered.

For more information about the position, contact: Aaron Larsen, Division of Water Quality, at 701.328.5230. For assistance in the application or interview process, contact Sara Leno, Human Resource Manager at 701.328.3374. TTY users may use Relay North Dakota at 1-800-366-6888.

Comments

These positions will be based in Bismarck. However, considerable travel, with overnight stays, will be required. Transportation and per diem reimbursement will be provided by the Department. A good driving record with a valid driver’s license is required. Experience with four-wheel drive vehicles, boats, computers (Arcview, Office), GPS and maintenance of related equipment is preferred. These positions require computer and data management capabilities as well.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.