We’re currently seeking applications for a Water Quality Monitoring Specialist.

This is a full-time position with a well-respected regional nonprofit that combines planning and conducting hands-on data collection activities in the field with analysis, interpretation, and policy / regulatory advocacy. This opportunity is ideal for a researcher in the fields of environmental science, natural resources, or public policy with at least 2-3 years of related work experience.

The Specialist will report to the Association’s River Restoration Director, will help manage NepRWA’s Environmental Fellow, and will work closely with our Managing Director of Community Resilience, Green Infrastructure Specialist, and Executive Director.

NepRWA currently operates two volunteer-based water monitoring programs, the Community Water Monitoring Network (CWMN) and X-Cel Conservation Corp (XCC), covering 51 sites seasonally.

The Specialist will oversee these programs, help expand existing efforts such as our “Hotspot” and continuous data collection programs, and help develop a new estuarine sampling program. Data will be used to inform us of determination decisions under the Federal Clean Water Act, to support advocacy toward problem area remediation, prioritize green infrastructure retrofitting, and develop Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs).

Key elements of the Specialist position include:

• Planning and participating in water quality monitoring events/activities, including development of Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs).
• Managing and expanding our water quality monitoring database and data visualization materials.
• Writing grant applications to support water quality monitoring activities.
• Coordinating data collection based on NepRWA’s priorities and data gaps with MassDEP’s Watershed Planning Program (WPP).
• Presenting water quality findings to the public, funders, or state regulators.

Schedule and Compensation

Schedule is 40 hours per week with a minimum of three days per week in person and an option for up to two days per week of remote work. This includes regular on-site fieldwork around the Watershed and occasional early morning sampling and evening or weekend events. Compensation includes a salary of $55,000-$65,000 per year depending on experience. Benefits include health insurance with up to 80% employer contribution, retirement plan with employer match, flexible working hours, and paid time off.

Qualifications

The Specialist position is open to applicants who have a master’s or bachelor’s degree in watershed management, environmental science, civil/environmental engineering, or a related field, and who are interested in a natural resource protection career. Ideal candidates will have 2-3 years of professional experience, a Master’s degree and/or other post-baccalaureate experience.

Required:

• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Self-motivation, reliability, and the ability to work independently.
• Familiarity with watershed science concepts.
• The ability to follow and develop specific sampling and safety protocols.
• The ability to respectfully engage racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse community members and volunteers.
• Experience planning and conducting surface water quality monitoring activities including field sampling, laboratory analysis, database maintenance, environmental data analysis, and communicating results to non-scientists.
• Demonstrated experience organizing, planning, and implementing projects in a fast-paced environment, working both independently and as part of a team.
• Comfortable working in the field on uneven or muddy terrain, wading, in a canoe or in a small motorboat, and under adverse weather conditions (rain, cool mornings, hot afternoons, etc.).
• A personal vehicle for transportation to and from the office and visiting remote sites with specialized equipment (mileage is reimbursed).

Preferred:

• Master’s degree.
• Experience managing volunteers.
• Experience in ArcGIS and/or RStudio.
• Familiarity with operating canoes and small motorboats.
• Experience with federal Clean Water Act compliance including QAAP development, use attainment determinations, MS4 regulations, and TMDL development.

All applications submitted per the instructions below will be reviewed with care. Applications by individuals historically underrepresented in this field, including minorities, women, and residents of our 14 watershed cities and towns are strongly encouraged. We are an equal opportunity / affirmative action employer (details on our website).

Application Procedure

Interested applicants MUST apply by submitting a cover letter and resume via this form. Applications submitted through online job advertising platforms will not be reviewed. In the cover letter, please describe your interest in the position and your relevant academic and/or work experience. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled but are encouraged during September if possible.

Send applications via the form above, and direct questions to Sean McCanty, River Restoration Director, at mccanty@neponset.org