MPCA Job Posting: Continuous Nitrate Sensor Network Coordinator

[Cassie Champion]

  Working Title: Continuous Nitrate Sensor Network Coordinator Job Class: Environmental Specialist 4 Agency: Pollution Control Agency Job ID: 80150 Location: Various Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Limited Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 09/12/2024 Closing Date: 10/11/2024 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-MAPE Division/Unit: Environmental Analysis & Outcomes/ Long-Term Surface Water Data Unit Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes - Up to 40% of the time Salary Range: $34.18 - $50.69 / hourly; $71,367 - $105,840 / annually Classified Status: Unclassified End Date: 03/06/2027 FLSA Status: Nonexempt Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: No This position may be located at one of the MPCA office locations: Rochester, Mankato or St. Paul The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities. Job Summary This position exists to manage the statewide continuous nitrate sensor network, which includes planning, coordinating, and leading the development of the network. This involves selecting monitoring locations, procuring sensors, developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), installing and maintaining equipment, and ensuring data collection and quality assurance. The role requires collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including government agencies and local partners, to analyze and present nitrate data. The coordinator will also stay updated on advances in nitrate sensor technology and lead data analysis, ensuring that information is communicated effectively to both internal and external audiences. Additionally, the position involves physically demanding fieldwork and requires excellent technical and interpersonal skills. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Hydrology, Natural Resources, Limnology, Chemistry, Water Resources, or other similar ecological or environmental sciences, AND Two years of advanced professional-level environmental protection or pollution control experience which includes working knowledge of water resource concerns, hydrology and understanding of water pollution control science and technology (e.g., advanced professional level experience is equivalent to Senior Environmental Specialist/Environmental Specialist 3 level work.) Ability to coordinate and lead a group or groups of watershed stakeholders (including state agency staff, soil and water conservation districts, counties, local resource professionals, and citizens) within diverse memberships and occasional conflicting priorities. Good communication skills, interpersonal skills, collaboration skills, and planning/organization skills sufficient to independently perform senior-level professional work. Advanced technical and administrative writing skills. Advanced knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Access, and Excel. Possess a valid Driver’s license (see additional requirements). The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Preferred Qualifications Working knowledge of watershed management principles and practices, limnology, hydrology, stream ecology, and contaminant transport principles, particularly in the context of Southern and Central Minnesota. This natural science knowledge must be balanced with an understanding of social, political, and economic considerations. Demonstrated ability to independently complete projects and deliverables pertaining to water quality monitoring and data analysis. Working knowledge of continuous nitrate monitoring sensor technology, equipment installation and equipment maintenance. Experience using WISKI or another similar database for continuous water data management. Experience and or knowledge of contracting and grants/loans policies and procedures, and budgeting, sufficient to follow and keep accurate records. Project management experience especially that pertaining to watershed management projects (WRAPS, TMDL, CWP loans, and 319 grants) or water monitoring projects. Proficient in Graphic Information System (GIS) software manipulation and editing. Experience and training related to Tribal – State Relations. Physical Requirements While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand and walk and step over obstacles in uneven terrain. The employee is occasionally required to sit, climb, or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Requires occasionally lifting and/or carrying such articles as file folders and boxes, tools, or heavier materials with help from others and/or moving light objects frequently. A job in this category may require maintaining a stationary position to a significant degree or may involve a certain amount of moving necessary in carrying out job duties. Additional Requirements A driver’s license is an essential function of this position. This requires possession of an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License. The job offer is contingent on confirmation of a valid driver’s license AND a satisfactory DLR check. Requires a Class D Driver's License: a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 26,000 pounds. This is a basic driver's license. Operators may also tow vehicles/trailers as long as the gross combination weight does not exceed 26,000 pounds. How to Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651- 2593637 or email car...@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers. Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Donovan Baugh at donova...@state.mn.us. About Pollution Control Agency Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups, and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions. Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well. Your benefits may include: Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support to help you reach your career goals: Training, classes, and professional development Tuition reimbursement Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law. APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email car...@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need