We are currently looking for a Source Water Protection Specialist/Hydrogeologist to join our team in the Water Protection Bureau of the Water Quality Division.

The Source Water Protection Specialist/Hydrogeologist position is responsible for development and implementation of the source water assessment program. This is primarily a technical position responsible for reviewing drinking water source delineation and assessment reports.  Additional functions include providing education and support to local governments, citizens, public interest groups, watershed groups, businesses and industry working to design and implement plans to protect drinking water sources. This position will also support the Groundwater Permitting section with water quality data analysis, data management, development of science-based tools for internal and external customers, as well as help build relationships within the Water Quality Division and agency at large. The successful candidate will have a solid background in groundwater hydrology, strong science communication skills, experience with various software programs such as ArcGIS/QGIS, MODFLOW/FEFLOW, R/Python, Microsoft Office Suite, and a passion for protecting water quality and public health.

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The minimum qualifications for this position include:

• Bachelor’s degree in physical, earth, or life sciences.
• Two years of directly related experience.

The successful candidate will have a background in groundwater hydrology and bring the following combination of skills and experience:

Experience:  

• analyzing and interpreting environmental data, especially data related to aquifer characterization  
• reviewing proposals for compliance with state and federal statutes, rules, and policies 
• acting as an effective liaison between diverse stakeholders that may have competing interests and desired outcomes
• writing technical documents for a general audience  
• Developing and implementing science based educational programs for diverse audiences

 Skills:  

• Clear written and verbal communication  
• Accountability and responsibility for assigned projects
• Managing multiple technical projects with minimal supervision
• Excellent record keeping and organization  
• Systems thinking and evidence-based decision making 
• Ability to anticipate potential consequences of decisions made

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Your cover letter and resume should describe how your education, knowledge, and skills have prepared you for this position.

At the Department of Environmental Quality, our goal is to champion a healthy environment for a thriving Montana.  DEQ employees are the heart of our organization. We value the people and invest in their professional growth, promoting a culture of cross-agency collaboration as we find solutions to the environmental challenges we face.  DEQ values – leadership, accountability, customer service, efficiency, excellence, and decision making – are fundamental to our work.   Come be a part of the Department of Environmental Quality!

The Source Water Protection Specialist/Hydrogeologist position includes a career ladder for professional development and pay progression. This position may be eligible for occasional telework.

Applications, including supplemental materials such as cover letter or resume, must be submitted through the State of Montana Careers site (https://statecareers.mt.gov/) by the closing date of the announcement.