Environmental Scientist - Spokane Tribe of Indians

Environmental Scientist

• Function as field crew lead for limnological and hydrological data collection activities, including pre-sampling preparation and post-sampling organization.
• Supervise a small crew of technicians during boat-based and shoreline sampling events.
• Provide training and workflow instruction to technicians once fully trained.
• Lead data collection for water sample collection (Kemmerer or similar sampler) for nutrient and chemistry analyses.
• Conduct chlorophyll-a filtering in the field.
• Perform zooplankton and phytoplankton sampling using appropriate nets or integrated water sampling methods.
• Conduct water column profiling using a multiparameter data sonde.
• Document environmental and hydrological conditions including wind, wave height, and visual observations.
• Conduct hydrologic discharge transects using an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP).
• Complete and maintain field logs and chain-of-custody documentation.
• Deliver samples to analytical laboratories.
• Maintain Fisheries Program equipment including vehicles, vessels, instruments, and storage areas.
• Perform routine calibration and preventative maintenance of sampling equipment.
• Maintain inventory and maintenance logs and communicate equipment needs to the Project Manager.
• Assist with purchasing and procurement of supplies as needed.
• Assist with annual monitoring reports including figures, tables, and basic statistical summaries.
• Proofread, format, and edit technical reports.
• Occasionally review literature and summarize findings.
• Participate in outreach events when requested.
• Adhere to written SOPs, survey protocols, and safety procedures at all times.
• Safely operate Tribal vehicles and vessels in compliance with Tribal policies.
• Use professional judgment to ensure data quality and integrity.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Foundational understanding of limnology and hydrology principles and their interaction.
• Experience conducting environmental field surveys (surface water sampling, habitat monitoring, etc.).
• Ability to learn and conduct ADCP discharge surveys (prior experience preferred but not required).
• Experience organizing and summarizing tabular datasets using basic statistics.
• Ability to lead small field crews.
• Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in variable weather conditions.
• Willingness to work long field days and travel up to 3 hours one-way during sampling events.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision once trained.
• Competent with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Bachelor’s degree in Limnology, Environmental Science, Aquatic Ecology, Environmental Chemistry, Hydrology, Civil/Environmental Engineering, or similar field focused on water resources/aquatic science.
• At least one season of relevant field experience (including internships and academic work).
• Coursework in limnology, hydrology, ecology, or environmental chemistry (minimum 6 credit hours combined). Unofficial transcripts required.
• Valid Washington Driver’s License (or ability to obtain within one month) and eligibility for Tribal vehicle insurance.
• Must have vehicle or access to transportation
• Washington Boater Education Card (or ability to obtain within one month of employment).
• Ability to complete MOCC training within the first year (if available).

• Experience operating and trailering motorized boats.
• Prior crew lead or field coordination experience.
• Experience conducting hydrological surveys.
• Experience with R, Python, Matlab, GIS, or similar analytical tools.
• Experience working in a large reservoir or natural lake system.